A carrycot is suitable for the first few months, up to around 6 months: lightweight and fitted with handles, it can be moved from room to room, keeping your newborn close in a snug space reminiscent of the womb. The crib, often raised on legs, provides a more stable place to sleep. The bedside crib stands out for its side panel that sits alongside the parents’ bed, making breastfeeding, bottle-feeding and night-time wake-ups easier without compromising safety.

The main consideration is your lifestyle: do you need to move it around each day, or would you prefer a permanent cosy spot in the bedroom? A compact carrycot suits a small flat; a bedside crib is ideal if you want your baby close at night. Materials matter too: wood for sturdiness, wicker for charm, cotton for softness and fabric for visibility. Whatever you choose, a firm, breathable mattress matters far more to your baby’s comfort than how the sleeping space looks.