Before making a decision about one of the more expensive essentials, take time to think about your individual needs. For the early weeks a crib or moses basket, followed by a cot makes good sense for your baby and for you. If you travel a lot, a travel cot could also be a good idea. Whatever you choose, you must make sure that it conforms to the relevant British Standard.

Moses Basket or Crib?

These are a great idea for the early weeks as they can help your very new baby to feel more secure. They are easy to move around if you want your baby to get used to sleeping against background noise during the day, or if you want to have her next to you for night time feeds. They are suitable up to about 3 months or until your baby can sit unaided.

Cots

These can be used from birth to about 2½ years old. But if your toddler is able to climb before this age you should consider changing to a bed sooner.

Cot Beds

These are excellent value as they can be used as a cot to start with and then converted into a bed which your child will be able to use from between the age of around 2½ up to about 5 years old.

Travel Cots

If you travel a lot, this is a must have. A cot your baby is familiar with means sounder sleep in strange surroundings. Some even double as a playpen.

What to Look For in a Cot

Check that the cot conforms to the relevant British Standard. A drop-side action makes it easy for you to use. But when it's properly closed, the baby should not be able to climb out. Check the cot has a durable, non-toxic finish which can not harm your child. A wipe-clean gloss finish will be easy to clean and will stay as good as new. Check there are no protruding screws or sharp edges that could injure your child. A teething rail will provide extra protection. Check there are no ledges to give your child a climbing foothold. If the height of the mattress base can be adjusted, you will not have so far to reach when your baby is small and need to be frequently attended and the mattress can be lowered once your child can sit and pull up into a standing position.