Infant car seat vs carrycot: which is better?
Short answer: They do different jobs. A infant car seat is a rear-facing car seat for newborns, often clicking onto a pushchair. A carrycot is a lie-flat bassinet that clips onto a pushchair chassis. Choose by your baby's stage, your space and how long you want to use it.
Infant car seat
Used from birth for car journeys.
- Look for R129 (i-Size) or R44.04 approval and the E mark.
- Check the fit in your car and whether you need an ISOFIX base.
- Take your baby out when you arrive, as the NHS advises.
Carrycot
Used from birth until your baby reaches the maker's limit.
- Check it fits your chassis.
- Check whether it is approved for overnight sleep. Only some are.
- Use the mattress supplied, with nothing added.
| Infant car seat | Carrycot | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | from birth for car journeys | from birth until your baby reaches the maker's limit |
What the guidance says
- It is fine for a baby to fall asleep in a car seat while you travel, but take them out as soon as you arrive.
- Car seats: look for ECE R44.04 (or R44.03) or i-Size R129, shown by the 'E' mark label.
- 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.
Related questions
How long can you use a infant car seat?
From birth for car journeys.
How long can you use a carrycot?
From birth until your baby reaches the maker's limit.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Radial i-Size Plus 360 Spin 40-150cm Car Seat
- Venus Prime Jogger Stroller & Rotating Group 0+/1/2 ISOFIX Car Seat
- Cirrus i-Size Car Seat
- Nimbus 180° Spin i-Size Car Seat
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Travel system vs infant car seat: which is better?Can an 8 month old sleep in a car seat?Prams buying guide for UK parentsWhat is i-Size?Is a carrycot right for you? Quick quizStrollers buying guide for UK parentsAll 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.