A newborn's first sleeping place should be safe, comfortable and close to the parents. This category includes baby cradles and bassinets for the first months – the Puerri Dody cradle and the Kids II Ingenuity bassinet – as well as Drewex wooden cots (Kuba, Stars, Giraffe) that remain in use once the baby outgrows the cradle.
The category is part of Baby equipment.
Cradle, bassinet or cot
|
Cradle / bassinet |
Cot |
| Age |
The first few months, until the baby rolls and pushes up |
From birth to about 2–3 years |
| Advantages |
Small, takes little space, baby is close to the parents' bed |
Long use, often adjustable base height |
| What to check |
The weight and age limit stated by the manufacturer |
Bar spacing, stability, mattress quality |
Safe sleep for babies
- Put your baby to sleep on their back on a firm, flat mattress that fits the sides exactly
- Keep pillows, thick covers, bumpers and soft toys out of the cradle and cot
- Use a correctly sized sleeping bag instead of a blanket
- A room temperature of about 18–20 °C is comfortable; do not overdress the baby
- It is recommended that the baby sleeps in the parents' room, in their own cot or cradle, for the first months
- Stop using the cradle once the baby reaches the weight limit or starts rolling and pushing up
To set up the sleep space see cot accessories, travel cots and night lights.
Pharmacist's advice
The safest sleep place for a baby is an empty cot or cradle in the parents' room – just the baby, a firm mattress and a fitted sheet. This setup lowers the risk of sudden infant death.
If you buy a second-hand cot, check that all parts are present and undamaged and that the bar spacing is not wider than recommended (about 6 cm).
Ljubica Barbulović, MPharm
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Related categories and guides
Frequently asked questions
Until what age does a baby sleep in a cradle?
Usually the first 4–6 months, or until the baby reaches the manufacturer's weight limit or starts rolling and pushing up.
Is a cradle or a cot better for a newborn?
Both are safe if they meet safety standards. A cradle takes less space and keeps the baby closer; a cot lasts longer.
Should I put a pillow and bumper in the cot?
For babies under 12 months, experts advise no pillows, bumpers or thick covers in the cot during sleep.
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