With a soft mattress for comfort that keeps them lying flat for safety, a carrycot is the best way for a newborn to travel when you’re out and about. We’ve put together the best selection of carrycots for your newborn, choosing only from trusted brands such as Silver Cross and Bugaboo so you can be confident that your baby is safe and comfortable wherever you go.
Do I Need a Carrycot?
You will need a carrycot for your baby’s first three months unless the seat of your pushchair or pram lies completely flat.
That’s because newborns need to lie flat for the first three months of their lives. This is mostly because they can’t lift their head; sitting them upright can restrict their airway and make it hard for them to breathe but they can’t yet lift their own head to help them breathe.
That’s why a carrycot is the safest way for your baby to travel in its first three months.
How Do I Use My Carrycot?
A carrycot is designed to attach to a travel system made up of a pushchair base that allows you to swap out the seat attachments you want to use for your child. This makes it easy for you to use the right seat attachment for each situation, and the one that’s most suitable for your child as they grow.
Carrycots also come with a handle, so you can detach it from the travel system when you reach your destination and carry your baby around or inside without disturbing them; handy if they’ve nodded off on the way!
Some brands offer bundles that include a carrycot, so you’ll have everything you need as soon as your newborn arrives, and you’ll be ready to transition your child to a more upright seat when the time is right.
Can My Baby Sleep in a Carrycot?
Don’t be surprised if your newborn nods off while riding in their carrycot, and don’t worry either: because the carrycot is flat, your baby can sleep in both comfort and safety.
That said, a carrycot isn’t a substitute for a proper cot or a Moses basket. That’s because a carrycot mattress is softer and less suitable for sleeping in all night. The ventilation isn’t as good in a carrycot either, making them more suitable for naps on the go.
Should I Use a Carrycot in My Car?
Some carrycots can be used as a car seat, and this is beneficial: lying flat is the safest way for your baby to travel. But not all carrycots are suitable for use in the car. Please only use a carrycot in your car if it can be properly and safely installed. If in doubt, use a newborn car seat.
