Joybuy Insights

Buying a baby cot: safety criteria, sizes and suitable models for home and travel

A baby cot needs to be more than just comfortable-looking. The key things to consider are the right dimensions, a sturdy construction and whether it’s suitable for your child’s age and stage of development. When it comes to portable options, buyers often make the wrong choice because of three common marketing traps:

  • Unclear age guidance: “From birth” doesn’t automatically mean a model can be used until your baby can sit, roll over or stand up. For many baby cots, use must stop earlier, once your child reaches certain developmental milestones.
  • Confusing accessories with a complete cot: A sunshade, cover or adapter is not a baby cot. When you buy, check exactly which parts are included.
  • Incompatible products: A carrycot for a pushchair won’t necessarily fit every chassis. With a CYBEX baby cot, in particular, check the model range, adapter and locking mechanism.

What really matters when choosing a baby cot

1. Age range, weight limit and stage of development

Check three details: minimum age, maximum weight and when you need to stop using the cot. A bedside crib is often intended for newborns up to around six months. Some models can only be used until your baby can sit, kneel or stand up unaided.

Examples from the product information:

  • According to the manufacturer, CYBEX Cot S Lux models are suitable from birth to around six months, or up to a maximum weight of 9 kg.
  • The Chicco Next2Me Pop Up is listed as suitable for newborns until they can sit up, roll over or reach 9 kg – whichever comes first.
  • The Hauck Sleep N Easyfold is described as suitable from 0 months to around three years, or up to 15 kg.

These details aren’t interchangeable between models. Always check the instructions for the specific model and stop using it once your child reaches any of the stated limits.

2. Sleeping surface, mattress and ventilation

A firm, well-fitting mattress should fit the sleeping surface without any large gaps. Extra mattresses, thick blankets, pillows and cot bumpers can restrict airflow, so don’t add them to a baby cot with a mattress unless you’ve checked that they’re suitable.

Mesh sides or ventilation panels make it easier to keep an eye on your baby and help air circulate. They don’t replace supervision, though. With a baby cot that has a mosquito net or sunshade, make sure the openings aren’t covered and that too much heat doesn’t build up inside.

3. Folded size, weight and attachment

For a travel cot, the unfolded dimensions aren’t the only thing to consider. Check the folded size, weight, carry bag and set-up time, too. A travel cot should be easy to store in the boot of your car, take on the train or bring along when visiting the grandparents.

For a pushchair carrycot, compatibility is the key consideration. According to the product description, the CYBEX Cot S Lux is designed for the Balios S Lux and Talos S Lux. The Memory Button must click fully into place, and the locking indicator must be clearly visible. An adapter such as the CYBEX Cot S Adapter for AVI SPIN is sold separately and is required to use the Cot S with the AVI SPIN.

Our picks for different everyday needs

The models below vary in their intended use, weight limits and features. Our selection is based on the technical details provided, not on broad claims about quality.

Best for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Costway 3-in-1 bedside baby cot

Costway 3-in-1 Baby Bedside Cot

Why this product suits you: This model combines a bedside crib, cradle and bassinet, with five height settings to suit beds of different heights.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated 9 kg weight limit, 76 x 43 cm mattress size and five height settings make it easier to check whether it’s right for you before buying.

Key benefits & features

According to the product description, it comes with mesh sides, lockable wheels, fastening straps and a carry bag.

Best for: Buyers who expect premium quality
CYBEX Cot S Lux Almond Beige

CYBEX Cot S Lux – Almond Beige

Why this product suits you: This carrycot is designed for families with a compatible CYBEX pushchair from the Balios S Lux or Talos S Lux range.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Compatibility is clearly specified, making this a less risky purchase than a carrycot advertised as universally compatible.

Key benefits & features

The product details list a foam mattress, mesh windows, an integrated carry handle and an XXL sun canopy with UPF 50+.

Best for: Specific needs & frequent use
hauck Travel Cot Sleep N Easyfold

hauck Travel Cot Sleep N Easyfold

Why this product suits you: This foldable baby cot is handy for trips, visits to the grandparents and as an extra bed at home.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The folded size of 76 x 27 x 27 cm and the carry bag give you a clear idea of how much space it takes up, rather than relying on vague claims about portability.

Key benefits & features

The listed features include large mesh sides, a one-handed folding mechanism, a maximum weight limit of 15 kg and a carry bag.

Best for: Parents prioritising a good night’s sleep
Chicco Next2Me Bedside Crib Sand

Chicco Next2Me Bedside Crib Sand

Why this product suits you: This bedside crib is designed to sit next to the parents’ bed and has six height settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The attachment system must be fitted correctly to the adult bed. The product information specifically advises checking the straps and the gaps.

Key benefits & features

The listed features include mesh windows, removable covers, a mattress and a carry bag.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Baby cot FAQs

When can a baby sleep in a baby cot?

Many models are designed for use from birth. However, you should always follow the instructions for the specific model and check its maximum weight limit and developmental restrictions. Stop using a baby cot if the manufacturer says your child can already sit, kneel, stand or climb out unaided.

What’s the difference between a bedside crib and a travel cot?

A bedside crib is usually attached directly to the parents’ bed and is intended for the first few months of life. A travel cot is designed with transport, folding and use in different places in mind. Some travel cots are suitable from birth, while others are better suited to older babies and toddlers because of their size, mattress or construction.

Do I need any extra travel cot accessories?

That depends on the model and how you plan to use it. Accessories might include a carry bag, a compatible sunshade, a mosquito net, a rain cover or a pushchair adapter. Before you buy, check whether the accessories are included or need to be purchased separately. In particular, a baby cot with UPF 50+ sun protection should never be treated as a substitute for shade, ventilation and supervision.