Carrycots buying guide for UK parents
Short answer: A carrycot is a lie-flat bassinet that clips onto a pushchair chassis. Choose one that fits your space and your baby's stage, and use it as the instructions say.
What is a carrycot?
A lie-flat bassinet that clips onto a pushchair chassis. It is used from birth until your baby reaches the maker's limit.
How to choose
- Check it fits your chassis.
- Check whether it is approved for overnight sleep. Only some are.
- Use the mattress supplied, with nothing added.
Safety standards
- Moses baskets and carrycots: look for BS EN 1466:2014 or BS EN 1466:2023.
Common questions
- Can my baby sleep in the pram overnight?
- Is it safe for a baby to sleep in a sitting position?
- Can a baby sleep in a pram carrycot at night?
- Do I need a carrycot as well as a car seat?
- How do I choose a carrycot?
- Do I need a carrycot?
- How long can you use a carrycot?
- When should I buy a carrycot?
What the guidance says
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep, in the feet-to-foot position (feet at the bottom of the cot, Moses basket or pram).
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition, with no raised or cushioned edges, that fits the cot or Moses basket with no gaps.
- Moses baskets and carrycots: look for BS EN 1466:2014 or BS EN 1466:2023.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Stroller buying checklistDo I need a infant car seat?Guide to prams & pushchairs: what to look forDouble and tandem pushchairs buying guide for UK parentsHow do I choose a double pushchair?How long can you use a infant car seat?All prams, pushchairs and travel systems advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.