When do I need a baby nest? We answer your most common baby nest questions.
Whether you call it a baby nest, sleep pod, playnest, sleep nest, SleepCarrier or cocoon, baby nests are absolutely everywhere. If you are considering a baby nest 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 baby nests.
1. What are baby nests used for?
One of the main reasons many parents, and their baby’s, love baby nests 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, baby nests also keep your baby on their back, stopping them from rolling onto their stomach. - decreasing the risk of SIDS.
Go to question 3 for more information on safety considerations.
And while these are still primary uses for baby nests, their capabilities have definitely evolved. For parents who want to stay on the go you can now find baby nests that are designed to keep up with you. The latest Najell SleepCarrier X has high and firm sides, making it suitable for "unsupervised sleep" or night sleep. The Najell SleepCarrier X 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 baby nest 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 SleepCarrier’s have 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 baby nest 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 baby nest, they should also be firm to avoid burying. All of Najell’s baby nests feature denser mattresses and sides to protect your baby.
The firm sides in the SleepCarrier X mean that can be used for unsupervised and overnight sleep according to European Safety Standard EN 1466:2023, taking effect in the summer of 2024, when the firm sides become mandatory for the product to be approved for overnight sleep.