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The Definitive Guide To Moses Baskets, Stands and Mattresses

Babies usually use a Moses basket for the first 3-6 months of their lives. When they move into their own room depends on how quickly they grow and how you feel about doing so. Some parents choose to not use Moses baskets and instead, move straight onto a cot. Whatever your choice, this is perfectly safe and normal.

However, questions may arise when you consider using a Moses basket, if you've never used on before or this is your first child, you may wonder if it's the right thing to do or not.

This blog will answer all of the questions you have about Moses baskets and will hopefully lead you towards a made decision. Remember, whether you use on or use a cot straight away, this will not impact your baby's development. There are multiple circumstance to why you'd use a Moses basket instead of a cot at the beginning.

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What is a Moses basket?

Moses baskets are designed for new-born babies to sleep in for their first months of life. Some parents choose to not have a Moses basket and instead, move straight into a cot. Both options are completely fine for your baby, it’s just down to personal preference. The majority of parents who choose Moses baskets will have one because they either can’t fit a full-size cot in their bedroom or they feel that a cot is too big for their tiny baby.

Moses baskets allow parents to have their baby close to them during the night where they can monitor their movements and breathing. It’s also much easier to hear them if they begin to cry. 

Moses basket are usually made of a wicker material and are fitted with a baby mattress to keep your little one comfortable. If you don't want to buy a Moses basket brand new, you can always buy one second hand but replace the mattress.

Babies usually stay in Moses baskets until they're 3-6 months when it’s a good time to move them to their own cot. Leaving them any longer than this can become unsafe for both you and your baby.

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Are Moses baskets suitable for overnight sleeping?

Yes. Moses baskets are an alternative to a cot in the first 6 months of your child's life - depending on when your baby needs to be moved to a cot. They have everything that a cot has except from they are a lot smaller and great for houses that don't have a lot of space.

Some parents choose to not use them for overnight sleeping. Parents will put their baby to sleep in a cot and use the Moses basket as an alternative sleeping area for the daytime. The advantage of this is that it can be put anywhere in the house.

Like a cot, there are safety precautions you need to take to make sure your baby stays safe in one. We will talk more in depth about this during the blog. It's important to do what's right for you as parents and your baby.

What if a Moses basket isn't right for my baby?

If you decide that a Moses basket is not the right thing for you or your baby. You can always move straight to a cot. However, these are slightly bigger and it's important for your child to be in your own room for the first 4-6 months. This is so you can monitor them closely and hear them is they wake.

Make sure that your room has the space to fit a cot in before you purchase one, the last thing you want is stress before you have your baby! Also, when you decide to put your baby to sleep in a cot, try to not change your mind again as this can confuse you baby and make it harder for them to settle. Keep your baby's sleeping place consistent to make it easier for you and them.

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What do the baskets look like?

Moses baskets are shaped like a miniature cot but also have handles for convenience. Depending on where you buy your basket from, some come in slightly different shapes but they are still very similar.

You can choose from Moses baskets with or without hoods. Some parents prefer to use the hood during the night as it makes the baby feel more secure in their Moses basket. The hood is also good for keeping sun away from the baby.

You can purchase the standard colour of a Moses basket which is usually a light brown colour. If you prefer something a bit different, you can also find Moses baskets that have been dyed. These normally come in colours such a blue, pink, yellow and white.

Types of Moses baskets

If you'd prefer to just place the Moses basket on the floor, that's absolutely fine. However, you can purchase different stands that can be used with Moses baskets. There are a variety of colours and designs you can choose from. We've listed 2 popular stand designs:

  • Rocking Stand - If you find that your baby gets to sleep easier when they are being rocked, this stand could be perfect for you. This can easily be placed beside your bed and you can rock your baby to sleep whilst you also relax. It's also a great alternative if you don't want to put your baby on the floor for the entire night. However, we do recommend taking your baby's Moses basket off of the stand when you go to sleep. This will eliminate the risk of your baby tipping the Moses basket over.
  • Free-folding stand - This is the same as the rocking stand except from it's more sturdy and instead, just holds the Moses basket at a height. This can be good if you have a high bed and would like your baby the same level at you. Again, it may be best to take the Moses basket away from the stand when you aren't able to monitor it.

It's great to try and buy the stand and Moses basket at the same time so you know that they fit together well. Test to make sure that the Moses basket sits on the stand without wobbling or feeling unsteady. If you do notice any odd movement that you don't think is safe for your baby, do not take the risk. With the added factors of your baby's weight as well as movements, this cold risk tipping the Moses basket.

How long will a Moses basket last?

If you purchase a good quality, brand new Moses basket, it is expected to last for years. If you look after it properly, you can protect the material from stretching and either use it again or give it to someone that needs it.

There are two things you can do after you've got the full use out of your Moses basket for your baby. You can either keep it to save money on buying another one if you have another baby. Or, you can donate or give it away to someone who needs it. This can be someone random, a family member or a friend. It's important to note that if you're going to store it for your own future use, make sure its in a dry and cool area so that it doesn't become damp and start moulding.

If you give it away, it's best that you remove the mattress and sell it without it. Over the time that your baby has been sleeping in their toes basket, they might have had a few accidents. Although the mattress has been washed, it's not worth the risk of passing it onto someone else's baby. instead, let the person know that you will sell the Moses basket on its own.

This also applies if it's going into storage. The basket will stay just fine, but the mattress might lose its quality overtime and it may be best to purchase a new one at the time you need it.

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Why should I choose a Moses basket?

There are many benefits to why parents choose Moses baskets. All parents are different and have different circumstances when they have a baby. Don't feel like you're doing something wrong because others that you know haven't chosen a Moses basket. We've listed some great advantages:

  • Easy to carry - Their lightweight design makes a Moses basket really easy to carry around the house or to different locations if you are travelling. They also come with handles to make them much easier to hold. However, it's not recommended that you carry your baby around in this as there are risks of handles breaking.
  • Space Saving - If you're struggling for space and can't fit a cot inside your bedroom, a Moses basket is the perfect alternative whilst your baby is young. The majority of Moses baskets are 66cm long and 28cm wide. This makes it really easy to fit them in even the smallest of rooms. Not only is their size great for space saving, your baby will also feel more secure in a smaller space - helping them sleep.
  • Take it anywhere - A Moses basket makes it easy to put your baby to sleep wherever you are. If you're in the lounge, it's really easy to bring down from upstairs to allow you to monitor your baby. It's not just good for around the house though. A trip to grandmas house is much easier when there's a Moses basket. Instead of packing a travel cot, a Moses basket is already put together and just needs to be put down in a safe space.
  • Keep your baby comfortable - Moses baskets are perfect for the winter and summer. With their wicker material, it allows air to flow through, making sure your baby doesn't het too hot. This allows you to dress your baby in warmer outfits during the winter without the worry of them overheating.
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Top 10 Moses baskets for 2020

We’ve done all of the work for you and searched around for the best Moses baskets for 2020. We’ve came across some products that will blow you away with their quality design and great price. It’s important that you find a Moses basket perfect for you and your little one. 

There are a variety of different designs to choose from depending on the look you’re going for. However, we’ve not only focused on what they look like. If your Moses basket looks great but doesn’t offer the comfort your baby needs, it’s not worth buying. All of the Moses baskets you will see don’t compromise on durability because of how they look.

A Moses basket is perfect for your new-born baby as it gives them their own space inside your room. Some parents decide to move to a cot straight away if they have the space to fit one in. However, a Moses basket is perfect for smaller spaces and still gives you everything a cot would. 

Tommee Tippee Sleepee Moses basket with stand

Available for £99.99 from John Lewis

This Moses basket has a sleek design that make it look modern and up-to-date. Not only does it look great, it offers you the perfect space to keep your baby nearby to you when they are asleep. For the great price of £99.99, it comes with a mattress, cotton liner and rocking stand. The rocking movements can help ease your baby into sleep during the night.

We think this Moses basket stands out because of its solid, easy to clean design. If your baby has an accident through the night, the design makes it easy to wipe down and throw the mattress and lining in the washing machine for an easy clean. You also don’t have to worry about your baby getting too hot in this Moses basket. The basket has 300 air holes to keep your baby’s temperature regulated throughout the entire night!

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Mamas & Papas Welcome To The World Moses basket

Available for £99 from Mamas & Papas

If you’re looking for a super comforting Moses basket, this one from Mamas & Papas is perfect. You can easily see from looking at this basket that it’s warm and cosy for your little one. The frame of the basket is a wicker material which is covered with a unique style liner that supports and cocoons your baby. This can easily be removed to wash if needed.

What makes this Moses basket unique is firstly, it comes with comfortable embroidered elephant bedding which you’d usually have to purchase separately when buying a Moses basket. Secondly, this Moses basket is designed to be comfortable for both parent and baby. The straps are made with a comfortable polyester material that it much easier to carry than the standard wicker handles. We think this Moses basket looks so snug that even we wouldn’t mind sleeping in this!

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Chicco 4 in 1 Moses Basket

Available for £199 from Boots

Now, we know this Moses basket might be on the more expensive side and may not be suitable if you’re on a budget. However, we love the multiple uses you can get out of this item. As most Moses baskets are only suitable for up to 6 months, this one can accommodate your baby up until their 3 years old. 

When your baby is in their early stages, this is the perfect Moses basket to keep in your bedroom. Its mobile stand is also great for moving it around easily. It comes with high tech additions such as an electronic toy bar that plays sounds and stimulates your baby. You can also use this in the day as a chair as it also reclines forward – great for feeding.

As they develop, you can continue using the Chicco 4 in 1 basket. You can use this as a suitable high chair as well as a comfortable seat where your child can complete activities such as watching television or drawing. We absolutely love the endless possibilities with this Moses basket.

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White Wicker Pod Moses Basket with Rocking Stand

Available for £89.99 from Argos

This is one of our cheaper options in this blog but it doesn’t mean you’ve got to lose quality! First of all, this Moses basket is visually beautiful and gives off a clean look with its white wicker and material. It’s also great for any parents in a rush as the basket comes assembled, meaning you don’t have to do anything! The stand is incredibly easy to put together and means that your baby doesn’t have to sleep on the floor.

The cover for this Moses basket is water resistant which makes it super easy to clean down. However, even with its water-resistant material, it is still extremely breathable and comfortable for your baby. We love this Moses basket because of its traditional look.

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Clair de Lune Lullaby Stars Moses Basket

Available for £149.99 from Argos

Another fantastic Moses basket from Argos. Despite being more expensive than the last, its differences aren’t huge but it is an exclusive design to Clair de Lune – making it very unique. This Moses basket mixes the contemporary shape with the classic hooded design that we see with most items. It comes with a gorgeous star pattern cover which will keep your baby super snug!

This Moses basket does have a matching stand that you can buy separately if you need it. However, its thick base lifts it from the floor quite nicely. We love this Moses basket because of its classic look merged with a more modern take. The bedding provides a beautiful pop of colour and will make your little one look adorable as they sleep.

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Mamas & Papas Boris Moses Basket

Available for £99 from Mamas & Papas

This Moses basket comes from a very popular collection from Mamas & Papas. The collection explores the characters of Mille Bunny and Boris Bear. This Moses basket comes from the Boris Bear collection and is absolutely adorable. This basket offers you everything from being soft and comfortable to being a great space for your baby to settle. This moses basket is designed specifically for children in their early stages and only accommodates up to 4 months old. 

However, if this is when you’re hoping to move your little one into their own room, it’s perfect. It’s got a great design and has been made with light materials to make it easier for you to carry around. We love this Moses basket because of its cosy looking design. This is guaranteed to make your little one feel comfortable.

Please note that you will need to buy a separate 28 x 74cm mattress for this Moses basket.

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Little Green Sheep Organic Moses Basket & Mattress

Available for £79.95 from JoJo Maman Bébé

Just because this Moses basket is cheaper, there are no features on the Moses basket that aren’t good quality and it also looks great. If you’re getting ready for your first baby and don’t want to break the bank, this is a fantastic choice. The basket creates a natural sleeping space for your little one.

We love this because of its beautiful knitted look cover. The design is simple and minimalistic and does what it needs to. More importantly, the basket comes with a high-quality mattress that is chemical free and safe for your baby. We think this is a great option if you’re looking for your first Moses basket.

Please note the stand is sold separately.

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Purflo PurAir Moses Basket in Soft Truffle

Available for £149 from Pushchairexpert

If one of your biggest worries is that your baby is going to get too hot, this is a perfect Moses basket. It comes with a mesh mattress which is fully breathable along with mesh side panels to allow air to flow through as your baby sleeps. The Moses basket has a beautiful quilted design and comes with 3 hanging toys and a small speaker that plays sounds and soft lullabies. As well as this, it also glows. This Moses basket is great for sensory development.

The stand offers more than what we’ve seen with other ones. Firstly, its design means it’s incredibly sturdy and will not fall over if knocked. Secondly, it comes with a large storage basket underneath, the perfect place for clothing or nappies. We think this basket deserved a place on our list because of the number of features it offers. Also, for £149, this is a great price for something that can do so much.

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WoolNest Moses Basket

Available for £154.99 from Wayfair

This Moses basket is very simple looking but offers all of the features you need. With its modern take on the design, the warm cotton will replicate how your baby felt in the womb – making it much easier to settle them. Its unique rounded design means that it dampens out any loud noises and allows your baby to sleep comfortably.

Despite being a fabric design, this Moses basket is still extremely breathable meaning your baby will be able to regulate their temperature throughout the night. The basket does come in different colours which are changed on the handles of the item – speaking of which are very comfortable to hold.

This Moses basket is sold without the stand but it can be bought separately online.

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Kinder Valley Down Moses Basket

Available for £26.45 from George (Asda Range)

Last but definitely not least, we have the cheapest Moses basket on our list. This is the perfect Moses basket if you’re in a rush to get one and don’t have a lot of money to spend. Its unisex design is perfect as it doesn’t mean searching around for one that’s right for your baby. The design includes a soft padded design around the sides to protect your baby at night.

We love that the whole basket is completely washable. The bedding and mattress can easily be thrown into the washing machine whilst the basket can be wiped down when there’s any accidents! The hood is also fantastic as it can be adjusted to how much you want to cover your baby – perfect for when the sun is shining in. This Moses basket doesn’t come with a stand but it can be bought separately.

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Does my baby need a Moses basket?

The simple answer is no. Moses baskets aren’t essential to your baby’s development and it won’t make a difference if you put your baby straight into a cot. However, they can be great if your bedroom isn’t big and you can’t fit a cot inside. With a Moses basket, you only need a small space to fit this in and the job is done. Also, Moses baskets don’t require building like cots do! This is a great help if you don’t have the time to build a cot for your baby’s arrival. 

Although you don’t need a Moses basket, they are handy for travelling with. If you tend to travel around more frequently or you’re just going on a well-deserved weekend break, a Moses basket can be the perfect travel cot. This gives your baby somewhere comfortable and warm to sleep, no matter where you are. Even better, there’s no putting it together when you get to your destination. Instead, everything will already be ready to go and your baby can be put in whenever they need to.

As well as this, a Moses basket is handy if you'd like to put your baby to sleep whilst you're in another room in the house. You won't have to worry about sitting in your baby's bedroom or your own to monitor your little one. Instead, you can bring the Moses basket down with you and monitor your baby at all times.

Although you do not need one, if you find that your baby is struggling to settle during their early stages of development, you should try a Moses basket. When your baby is put into a cot, there's quite a lot of space around them which is a huge difference to being in the womb. In a Moses basket, the space is smaller and more secure. They also surround your baby and make it feel like a really safe space.

On the other hand, you can always try a Moses basket but it doesn't matter if it isn't right for you. If you find that your baby cannot sleep in it, move them to a cot quicker than you usually would to see if this helps. An early move to a cot will not impact your baby in any way - you will have to make this move at some point anyway.

How long can a baby sleep in a Moses basket?

All babies are different and whilst some will move into their cot a lot sooner, others might take a little longer. There’s nothing wrong with feeling anxious about moving your baby into their own room. It’s important not to leave it too long but to also make sure you and your baby feel comfortable and ready for it.

It's important to remember that when your baby moves into their own room, it doesn't mean that you can't monitor them. Baby monitors are a great way to continue monitoring your baby without being beside them. You can even get baby monitors with cameras on so that you can actually see your baby. Moving is a scary thing but its great to give your little one a space of their own to become a little bit more independent.

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How will I know my baby is outgrowing their Moses basket?

We’ve got some top tips for knowing when to move your baby into their own room. There are some signs you can look out for to know if your baby is getting too big.

  • Adjusting to the world. A Moses basket is used to help your baby adjust to life and the world around them. Their hooded design is made to make your baby feel protected and secure. After about 3 months, your baby has adjusted to their surroundings and it can be a perfect time to move them into their own room. Moses baskets offer comfort like rocking movements to replicate what they’d feel in the womb. However, at 3 months, your baby no longer needs to rely on these movements and can find other ways to soothe themselves.
  • Touching the ends. When a baby is put into a Moses basket to go to sleep, you should make sure their feet are against the bottom. This ensures they don’t wiggle down and allow their covers to move over their face. As you continue doing this whilst they grow, you will realise that their head will gradually get closer to the top. You don’t want your baby to be squashed into their Moses basket. Therefore, when you begin noticing these changes, you should consider moving them into a cot.

It’s really important to allow your baby to grow normally. If you keep them in their Moses basket for longer than they should be, it can cause joint problems and pain as they cannot stretch out as they’d like to. The most important thing is to make sure they are comfortable, if you notice them looking uncomfortable in their Moses basket, you shouldn’t leave it much longer.

Remember, if you don’t have a cot to move your baby into or you cannot afford one, buy second hand or ask around friends and family for help. There are also charities and organisations that can give you cots if you need them. Don’t keep your baby in a Moses basket because you have no other alternative.

Changes that can impact your baby's safety in a Moses basket

  • Rolling over. Some babies learn to roll over sooner than others. When you know that your baby can do this, it’s time to move them to a cot. A Moses basket doesn’t provide the room your baby needs to move around. When your baby moves around in their cot, they have enough room to stretch out. 

Not only this, if your baby is in a rocking Moses basket, it can cause them injury if the basket tips over. With a cot, they are on a secure surface that cannot move if they roll over. Prioritise your baby’s safety when it comes to moving them to their own room. It may be nerve wrecking and upsetting, but it’s the best thing for your baby’s development and safety.

  • Weak Material. Moses baskets are usually made from wicker, palm or maize. This means that it can only withstand a certain amount of weight. Usually, Moses baskets can hold up to about 9kg. After you baby has passed this weight or is coming close, it’s safer to move them to a cot

A cot is designed to hold your baby from the time they are a new-born all the way up to being a toddler. You can rest assured knowing that your baby is safe in their cot and will have a comfortable night’s sleep. 

  • Sitting up. The majority of babies don’t learn to sit up till their around 4-7 months old. However, this doesn’t mean that your baby won’t learn sooner. All children develop at different rates and you may find that your baby starts learning things quicker than you thought they would. If you notice that your baby is attempting to sit up or can do so already, you need to move them into their own cot as soon as possible.

Sitting up can allow your baby to fall out of their Moses basket which poses a huge risk of injury. Moses baskets only have low barriers around them and doesn’t take much for your baby to lean over and fall out. 

This also applies for babies who can push themselves onto their hands and knees. Again, this puts your baby in danger of falling from their Moses basket. A cot has high walls to protect your baby and they can even stand up without risking falling out or injuring themselves. Make this move sooner rather than later to eliminate risks.

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Moving your baby to a cot from a Moses basket

After your baby has been sleeping somewhere since birth, moving somewhere else can be a bit of a shock to both parents and baby. To make the transition easier, try putting the Moses basket into the cot for a couple of nights. This will help your baby get used of their new surroundings but will also help you as parents to adjust to your baby being in another room.

When you’ve done this for a couple of nights (or longer if you need it), you can try taking your baby out of their Moses basket and laying them in their cot. You might find that they take a couple of nights to adjust to this. Don’t give up and put them back into their Moses basket, this will take you back to stage 1 and will confuse your baby. Once you have started the transition, continue with it and remove the Moses basket from where you can see it. This will prevent you putting your baby back in.

Remember not to include any loose items in your baby’s cot like blankets as the extra room allows them to move around more. Instead, dress them in something warmer if you feel like they need it.

We hope that this blog has helped you work out when the right time is to move your baby into a cot. Although it can feel scary and new, we know that you can get through it. It’s important that if you have any concerns about your baby, speak to a paediatrician for more professional advice.

Is a Moses basket safe?

A Moses basket is definitely a safe environment for your little one. However, it's down to you as a parents to take safety precautions whilst using one of them. A baby needs to be monitored when they are in a Moses basket, especially as they start to get bigger. This is why it's so important that this is kept in the same room as you whilst you sleep. A Moses basket shouldn't be used as an alternative to a cot when it comes to moving your baby into their own room.

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Bedding - what's safe and what's not?

When your baby is in their Moses basket, they need to always be placed laying down on their back. This position has been found to reduce the risk of cot death by 50%.In regards to their mattress, this needs to be firm and supportive. If it is too soft, it increases the risk of your baby rolling over during the night. The mattress needs to fit tightly against the edges of the Moses basket. This eliminates the risk of your baby getting their hands or fingers caught in a gap and pulling themselves over. If you can fit two or more fingers in the gap between the mattress and Moses basket, you need to find a different mattress. Don't fill it out with blankets instead, a baby should not be left to sleep with loose items in their cot or Moses basket.

What about pillows?

As well as blankets, your baby also doesn't need extra items like pillows. In their early stages, the safest sleeping position is flat on their back with nothing restricting their breathing. A pillow or blanket could potentially move during the night and cover your baby's face. Instead of blankets, your baby will sleep just fine in a comfortable sleep suit. Depending on the time of year, this can either be warmer or a more thinner material to keep them cool.

Weight - when does it become unsafe?

We addressed this briefly earlier in the blog. Moses baskets aren't designed for older babies and children. They're specifically made for newborn and young baby's in the early stages of their development. When you purchase a Moses basket, there will be a place to find out how much weight it can hold. You should take this extremely serious and soon as your baby get's close to the maximum weight, move them into a cot.

The maximum weight for some Moses baskets can be as little as just 15 lbs. If you continue using a Moses basket after your child has reached or exceeded this weight, you're putting them in a lot of danger. Over time, the material used to make the Moses basket will weaken and it will slowly begin to break down. The real danger comes when you decide to carry your Moses basket with your baby inside. If the material is weak and damaged, your baby could possibly fall through the bottom of it. If at the time you are carrying the Moses basket, this is an extreme height for your little one to fall from.

However, if you only use the Moses basket for the weight that it specifies, this is completely safe for your baby.

Risks of falling

As we mentioned earlier, your baby needs to be monitored at all times when they are in their Moses basket and need to be kept close to you when they are sleeping. Because of their practical size and weight, it can be tempting to place the Moses basket on a table or higher surface. You might do this because of pets around the house or to move your baby to a quieter area.

We highly recommend that you do not do this. If your baby moves whilst they are in their Moses basket, they could potentially roll out and fall from a high surface. Instead, always keep the Moses basket on the floor where your baby is secure and safe.

Moses baskets come with handles that allow you to carry them when you need to. Some parents think that because these handles are available, it's a good way to transport their baby from one room to another. However, although the risk is low (especially if your baby is under the maximum weight), there is potential that a handle could snap whilst your carrying the Moses basket with your baby in. To eliminate this risk, it's a better option to choose to carry the Moses basket and your baby separately when moving them to a different room. This makes it much safer for both you and your baby.

Overall, your baby's safety really depends on how you monitor them and the decisions you make. Your baby's safety is a priority and it's important to risk access the actions you take.

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Are Moses baskets SIDS safe?

Moses baskets are recommended to parents as a good choice to protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. This is because of the close contact that the baby has with parents throughout the entire night. They're also easy to monitor as they are in the same room as the parents. The baby is able to bond with his or her parents whilst also having their own space to adjust to.

What should I look for when buying a Moses basket?

There are plenty of places to buy a Moses basket for your baby. Whether it's online or in a shop, there's a variety of options to choose from. However, there are a few things that you need to check for before you purchase your Moses basket - especially if you're buying this online and cannot physically see it. If you're wondering how much they cost, take a look at out 'How much does a baby cost' blog.

The main priority is to keep your baby safe. When buying items online, they may come from different countries where safety regulations are different. This can also impact the quality of the Moses basket. Remember, your baby will be in their Moses basket from the day they are born. This is when they are at their most fragile and you want to do everything to protect them.

We've got a few tips on what you should look for when buying a Moses basket. Don't just purchase it immediately because it looks nice. Look for the more important things that will keep your baby safe in the long run.

Important features of a Moses basket

  • Good design and style - We don't only mean what it looks like. Of course, you want your Moses basket to look nice and match in with your home surroundings. However, there's more important factors when it comes to the design of the Moses basket. You need to make sure that they design is sturdy and the handles are woven in properly. You'll be able to tell if it's a cheap design if the Moses basket starts weakening not long after you've bought it. You want to buy something comfortable for your baby that will support them whilst they sleep. Remember, you can always ask shop assistant for their help.
  • Important features - if you're inside a shop and you can physically touch the Moses basket, make sure that the handles meet together comfortably when you pick it up. Although we recommend that you don't carry your baby in their Moses basket, it's still important that the Moses basket is easy to transport and there's no risk of weakening the handles. Another feature on a Moses basket that's really important is the mattress. You may choose to buy this separately or it may come with the Moses basket you're buying. Make sure that fitted sheets fit over the mattress without coming off with movement. They need to fully overlap over the sides. If this is not the case, you either need to look for another mattress or bigger fitted sheets. If they are not fitted correctly, it can lead to them coming off during the night and covering your baby's face. If you're looking at the Moses basket online, take note of the measurements of everything to make sure it will be safe.
  • Safety standards - The most important thing of them all. As we mentioned earlier, when items travel from different countries, the quality is sometimes compromised. What you're getting may look amazing, but it may be dangerous for your baby. You need to make sure that the Moses basket you are purchasing conforms to safety standard BS EN 1466:2014. In shops, this is easier to confirm as they are not allowed to sell items that don't conform to safety standards. However, online sellers can get away with this and it's better to try and find an item where you are sure that it's safe. Try and find sellers who have established companies, good reviews and who have had plenty of orders. It's also good to remember that cheaper does not mean it's better. For the safety of your baby, it's better to spend the average amount on a Moses basket instead of finding the cheapest.
  • A stand - We've spoken about stands earlier in the blog. Although these aren't required, they are good if you'd like to keep your baby off of the ground. However, as your baby begins to get bigger, it's better to place in on the floor as they will start moving more and can potentially tip the stand.

Look out for all of these things and you'll have yourself a safe and good quality Moses basket. Don't compromise on things because you like the look of it, always think safety first.

Where can I get a mattress for my Moses basket?

If you are buying your Moses basket from a store, they are likely to also sell mattresses. This may either come with the basket or you might have to buy it separately. If you're unsure of where to find one, ask an assistant in the shop you bought the Moses basket from.

If you struggle to find one in store, you can always resort to looking online. We recommend you don't buy a second hand mattress as there's a risk of transferring bacteria from one baby to another. Instead, buy one brand new. Mattresses are available for all different budget types.

Baby item and furniture stores/online sellers will most likely have what you're looking for. However, it's always a great idea to ask family or friends for their advice too. If they've already had children, they can give you some great tips on where to buy things.

Use the connections you have around you to make bringing up your baby a lot easier. Even if it's not your first baby, it can still feel like a challenge. Baby groups are also a great place to speak to other parents who can give you advice on where to get items that you need.

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Top 5 Moses baskets with stands

It’s a massive inconvenience when you buy a Moses basket online, it finally gets to your house and you find that it doesn’t have a stand! Many websites can be misleading as they show pictures of the Moses basket with the stand, making you think that that’s what you’re paying for. However, when you read the description or small print, somewhere it will say that the stand isn’t included.

We know this is a common problem. When we were searching for the best Moses baskets with stands, we came across many that we thought had them but actually didn’t! We’ve searched around and found 5 Moses baskets that all come with stands in the price. We’ve found a different variety of styles as we know everyone looks for different things. 

The items we have found also range in price. We’ve taken into consideration parents who want to spend less and others who want to spend a little bit more. With our help, there’s no need to go searching around online and in stores to try and find a Moses basket with a stand. Instead, just take a look at our list where we have reviewed the best ones we’ve found!

How to choose your best Moses basket with stand

When looking for the perfect Moses basket and stand duo, you want something that’s going to be safe for your baby. It’s important not to just go for the first stand you see – search around and read reviews from other people. The last thing you want is for your baby’s Moses basket stand to topple over and hurt your baby. We’ve listed some important things to look out for when buying a Moses basket stand:

  • Sturdiness. When your baby’s Moses basket is placed on top of the stand, there should be no wobbling or movement at all. A lot of stands come with fixings in which you can secure the Moses basket onto the stand. However, if your stand does not have this, you need to make sure that it sits correctly on the stand – with both ends of the Moses basket securely against the stand. After you feel that it is secure, you can test this by slightly jolting the Moses basket and stand to see if it continues to stand up. Please do this test when your baby is out of the Moses basket. The test is important as if you have younger toddlers, they may grab on or jolt the Moses basket and stand when going to look at their little brother or sister. Although you should always be there to supervise, it’s also good to know that the stand will not fall over easily, injuring both of your children.
  • Good Build. Some stands come already built whist others need to be put together by you. Whatever stand you get; you need to make sure it’s been built properly. Just because it’s been built by the seller, it doesn’t mean that everything is as secure as it could be. If you receive a stand that has been pre-built, make sure that all screws are tightened properly and that there is no loud creaking. Creaking can indicate movement of the joints on the stand. Although this does not mean the stand will collapse, it can mean that it may wear down quicker than usual. You can always contact the seller to let them know of this. Building a stand, yourself is sometimes better as it gives you confidence that it has been put together properly. Again, ensure that all screws are tightened and there is no wobbling when weight is put onto the stand.
  • Easy to move. A lot of parents not only use a Moses basket in their bedroom, they also like to move it around the house to put their baby to sleep wherever they are. You want to find a stand that is easy to move. Buying a stand that is lightweight and small enough to carry is what you need to look for. Some stands can be quite bulky, making it a bit more difficult to do things like carry down stairs. You also need to consider that things might be a little more difficult after you’ve given birth. If you don’t have anyone to help you, these tasks can seem impossible. Make it easy and convenient for you.

Top 5 Moses baskets with stands (lowest to highest price)

We’ve listed out favourite Moses baskets with stands starting with the lowest price up to the highest. We hope that you can find something in this list that suits your preferences and budget:

Broderie Anglaise Moses Basket with Folding Stand

Available for £38 from George

Our lowest priced Moses basket with stand comes in at a fantastic £38. This bundle set is perfect for first time parents or if you’re looking to save some pennies. The design is simple but does everything that you need it to. As well as a folding stand, the Moses basket also comes with a soft cotton padded surround, a comfortable mattress and an adjustable hood.

These features keep your baby cool throughout the night with their breathable materials. What we love about this Moses basket with stand is its amazing price for what you get. Its neutral design also makes it easy to buy if you don’t know what gender baby you’re having yet. 

The stand is made of solid pine wood and comes with plastic straps on either side to secure your baby’s Moses basket. Its folding design makes it easy to transport and move around if you need to. We think this set is great!

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White Dimple Moses Basket with Rocking Stand

Available for £49.99 from Amazon

For just over £10 more than the last, this Moses basket offers more style and design than the last. This is what your extra money is paying for. Instead of a simple, folding pine stand, this Moses basket comes with a grey rocking stand. This Moses basket is a great choice for parents who are looking for superior levels of comfort for their little one as well as a bold design.

We love this Moses basket because of its beautiful style. Whilst it takes the traditional look of a Moses basket, small features have modernised it and bought it up to date. The beautiful bedding adds something different that we don’t see on most Moses baskets.

This stand is different from the last. Instead of sitting solid on the floor, this one offers a rocking function. This can help your baby get to sleep as it mimics movements similar to those in the womb. If you’re looking for something stylish but don’t want to break the bank, this is the perfect purchase.

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Wicker Moses Basket Pod with Rocking Stand

Available for £75.45 from George

Another fantastic option from George. This Moses basket takes quite a different shape from the others. Instead of the standard basket shape, this acts as more of a pod and keeps your baby feeling snug and tucked in, just like they would in the womb. This set comes with 100% cotton waffle fabric and a soft padded surround to keep your baby feeling warm at night. You won’t have to worry about your baby getting too hot though. The mattress is breathable and allows air movement and heat dissipation around your baby’s body.

Like the last option, this stand is also a rocking stand. We love the design of this stand as it really focuses on keeping the Moses basket secure when it’s placed on top. The stand has a curved design and adjustable straps on either side to allow you to secure the Moses basket in place properly.

This Moses basket set has had over 100 positive reviews from parents. It’s a fantastic option for your new baby.

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Shnuggle Dreami Moses Basket

Available for £134.95 from Argos

The price takes a little bit of a jump here and may not be suitable for all parents. However, we wanted to find options that ranged in price to meet everyone’s budget. This Moses basket is a modern alternative to the traditional style. Instead of the classic wicker material, this uses a polypropylene base to the Moses basket and is filled with bedding that is hypo-allergenic and breathable. 

Its stand is also very different to the other options. Instead of either being fixed or rocking, this stand offers both. Either choose from a low-level rocking stand or a higher-level fixed position. It’s materials also make it light and easy to carry around the house, allowing you to put your baby to sleep wherever you are.

We love this Moses basket and stand because of its completely different look. We also love that everything is tailored to regulating your baby’s temperature throughout the night.

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Chicco 4in1 Moses Basket

Available for £159 from John Lewis

Our most expensive option is the Chicco Baby Air Crib. Although £159 might seem like a huge amount of money to spend on a Moses basket, this is designed to last your baby from birth to 3 years old. Whilst it can be used as a Moses basket at the beginning, it can also be transformed into a high chair and activity chair for when your child gets older and bigger.

We love this Moses basket as it offers so many different functionalities and isn’t just for your baby during their early stages. In the long run, this can save you money on a high chair for your little one. The stand is also great as it has lockable wheels on the bottom. This allows you to move the chair around the house easily and have your baby by your side wherever you go.

Check out the link below to see more images of what this Moses basket can do. 

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How to get a baby to sleep in a Moses basket

A lot of parents struggle with getting their baby to sleep for the first few weeks or months. Although it's not likely that you'll get a proper nights sleep for a little while, it will start to get better as your baby develops. However, the first stages of their development can be the hardest. We've seen many parents ask how to get their little one to sleep in their Moses basket.

First of all, remember that your baby has had a huge change of environment. They've came rom the womb where they'd felt secure, safe and have been protected from the outside world. Now that they are born, there are new noises, feelings and smells that can confuse them. Although these might be just tiny things, your baby will take time to adjust to them and get into a routine. This can pose a larger problem if you live in an area where it's quite loud. For example, if you live near a road, traffic noise can keep your baby up and may take them a couple of weeks to get used to. A Moses basket is great for noises as the hood can make them quieter for your baby.

Another reason your baby may not be settling in the first few days of their life is they may be experiencing a condition called Second Night Syndrome. This is a theory that a baby goes into a deep sleep during the first 24 hours of their lives due to the stress of birth. After they have woken from this, it's a huge shock and they express this by crying and not going to sleep. All babies are different and some experience this more than others do. If you're concerned about it, contact a paediatrician for their advice.

A Moses basket won't just magically make your baby go to sleep (we wish it did!). You will possibly experience all of the problems that you'd also get if you were to put your baby into a cot. We've listed a few things that you can try to help your baby get to sleep in their Moses basket.

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Things you can do to help your baby get to sleep in a Moses basket

  • Swaddle them - When your baby was in the womb, they were held in the foetus position which made them feel safe. Although you can't fully replicate this outside of the womb, you can use swaddling to get close to it. Swaddling is a technique is which you wrap your baby in a breathable material cloth to make them feel snug and safe. When your baby is held in the same position for a period of time, it will make them feel like they are back in the womb and therefore, may sleep better and more conformably. When they are wrapped up, you can spend some time getting them warm and cosy in your arms. This means that when you move them to their Moses bases, the cooler mattress won't be as much of a shock because the material holds some of the warmth.
  • Use contact - You have a lot of contact with your baby during the day when you are holding or cuddling them. The contact you should use during bedtime is a little different. When you put them down into their Moses basket, they may begin to cry or wiggle around as a sign that they cannot sleep. Instead of picking your little one up again, use minimal contact to calm them. You can do this by placing your hand on their chest, getting closer to them or placing your cheek against theirs. This contact will make them feel supported and safe. When they stop crying, remove the contact that you have with them. This will teach your baby from an early age that you will support them when they are crying, but they can sleep on their own when they are in a calm state.
  • Give them their own space - Moses baskets are a perfect way to give your new baby their own private space. However, when babies do not settle in their Moses baskets, some parents resort to letting them sleep in the same bed. This is fine as a one off thing, but you shouldn't continue doing it every night. Your baby will get into a routine of sleeping next to you and it will be much harder to get them to settle in a Moses basket or cot. Even at a really young age, it's important that you stick to a routine for your baby to adjust to. If you continuously change where they sleep, they will find it much harder to settle. Support your baby by holding them and rocking them to sleep, but when they do go to sleep, put them straight into their Moses basket. If they wake, use the techniques that we've spoken about above to help you out.

If you feel that you need some more help or there is something wrong with your little one, contact a paediatrician for their advice on what to do next. it's very normal for babies to cry, but don't leave it if you feel concerned. We've also written another blog with tips on how to get your baby to sleep - check it out.

To conclude...

There's a lot you need to know and think about before you purchase a Moses basket. We hope that this information has helped you make a decision on whether to go to a cot straight away or use a Moses basket first. Remember, do what makes you and your baby feel comfortable. It doesn't mean you're doing something wrong because you're doing it different to others.

The most important thing to take away from this is that you should put your baby's safety first and always purchase a safe Moses basket. Remember to check all of the safety requirements before you purchase one to make sure yours matches up. You want to protect your baby from harm throughout their whole life. However, protecting them at their earliest stages is essential as they are their most fragile.

If you are still unsure of what to do. You can get more advice from professionals like nurses and paediatricians. They will be able to help you answer any extra questions you may have and give you advice on if your baby isn't settling well in their Moses basket. Thanks for reading out blog and make sure to read some of our others for some great advice!

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