When do I need a babynest? We answer your most common babynest questions.

Whether you call it a babynest, sleep pod, playnest, sleep nest or cocoon, babynests are absolutely everywhere. If you are considering a babynest for your new arrival you probably have a lot of questions. In this article, we have compiled answers to the most common questions asked about babynests.

1. What are babynests used for?

One of the main reasons many parents, and their baby’s, love babynests is that the cocoon-like pod mimics the feeling of the mothers womb. This snugness promotes a better sense of security and tranquility to a newborn. Becoming a familiar environment they relate to the feeling of comfort. Additionally, babynests also keep your baby on their back, stopping them from rolling onto their stomach. Decreasing the risk of SIDS. 

However, the practical uses of nests have changed a lot over the years. At first, they were used as sleep nests for families who chose to co-sleep. A co-sleeping nest would keep the child between the parents' heads. Protecting the baby in the event the parents rolled over or accidentally covered their head with a duvet. 

Go to question 3 for more information on safety considerations.

And while these are still primary uses for babynests, their capabilities have definitely evolved. For parents who want to stay on the go you can now find babynests that are designed to keep up with you. The Babynest SleepCarrier has handles, giving you the possibility to bring your sleeping baby everywhere you go, without waking them. Plus, it also doubles as a pram nest and playnest. Meaning you have a familiar and comforting environment for your baby to nap or play in, that can be brought on every adventure. 

2. When do I need a babynest? And what age can I use it until?

Babynests are usually used during the first year with your newborn. How long you can use it depends on what babynest you chose. All of Najell’s Babynests can be used as newborn nests from day 1. The Babynest SleepCarrier can be used as a babynest and playmat up until 1 years old, but we recommend that you stop using the carrying function once your baby is able to roll. The Najell Babynest Tulip can also be used from day 1 in its 0-3 month position. And once your baby passes 3 months or needs a little wriggle room you can easily attach the extension and then enjoy it for 6 more months. Making it the perfect softer nest for use at home. 

3. Are babynests safe?

There are important safety features you should prioritize when choosing the best babynest for your baby. Whether you use it as a sleep nest, pram nest, playnest or a bit of everything, it’s important to make sure that the material is breathable. All of Najell’s Babynests are lined with a breathable airmesh and the Babynest SleepCarrier Vol. 3 has airmesh completely surrounding the inner sides of the nest. Meaning your little one has airflow even if their face turns to the side. Likewise, when using any babynest you should always avoid having extra material inside the nest that could potentially block the baby’s airways.

Another thing to look out for is the mattress. In contradiction to what us adults look for when choosing our beds, a baby’s mattress shouldn’t be too soft. Of course it should be comfortable but it should also be a firmer model. This prevents them from being able to bury their face if they roll over. The same goes for the sides of the babynest, they should also be firm to avoid burying. All of Najell’s babynests feature denser mattresses and sides to protect your baby. 

Unfortunately there is no safety standard for babynests yet. But there is one currently being developed and Najell will continue to contribute to the best of our abilities. However, there are safety standards for carry cots and mattresses that you can look out for:

• The European Standard for carry cots: EN-1466:2015

• The European standard for mattresses for cots & cribs: EN-16890:2017

4. Do I really need a babynest?

The short answer is probably. Especially if you plan on using a pram. Like we said some nests, like the Babynest SleepCarrier, can be brought with you wherever you go. This drastically increases the amount of spontaneity you are able to have as a parent with a newborn. With a babynest, you don’t have to feel restricted around your baby's sleep schedule. You can put your baby down for a nap in the babynest, and then move them to the pram without waking them. This way there is nothing really stopping you from doing those things you love to do. Want to go to the gym? They can watch you sweat from the babynest or practice tummy time using the SleepCarrier as a playmat. Craving a coffee at your favorite spot? Leave the pram outside, bring in the SleepCarrier and get your caffeine fill. Do the things you want to do, when you want to do them, but with your new best friend napping by your side. 

And even for us hermits who prefer to stay indoors, a nest with handles is perfect for bringing your baby with you as you move around the home. Plus, if you find a babynest that’s multifunctional it could also be an essential for learning and play. We know that tummy time is super important for developing strength and motor skills. The Najell SleepCarrier can be folded out completely to make a play mat. Giving you the ideal surface for tummy time wherever you want to practice it. 

5. Which babynest is best?

Which babynest is best for your family largely depends on how you plan on using it. Will you be on the go and need a pram suitable nest with handles? Or will you be mostly at home looking for the perfect spot for quality time together? Make sure you pick a nest that suits your lifestyle and allows you to continue living life by your own rules. Whatever they may be. 

However, you do parenting Najell has a babynest to suit. The new Najell Babynest SleepCarrier vol. 3 is still the smarter babynest, but now more flexible than ever. Be original with the original.