Publié : 11/01/2022

Where should baby sleep when returning from maternity?

- Categories : Tips

Nateo CONCEPT

How to prepare for bringing baby home?

Upon returning from the hospital, parents may feel a bit anxious about spending their first night with the baby. There's also the question of where to let the baby sleep for this first time. Indeed, there are many possibilities to meet the expectations of parents and children... Bassinet, convertible baby bed, co-sleeping or even moses basket, we'll tell you all about the different options available to you!

The Moses Basket

The moses basket is particularly suitable for very young infants to sleep in. It's very easy to carry, allowing you to have your child with you day and night. However, some parents prefer to clearly distinguish sleep times and therefore opt for a bed dedicated to baby's nights. The moses basket then becomes useful only during the day.

The moses basket can be an interesting solution for the early days, but you might also choose to favour a proper bed for nights. Moreover, it will only be useful for a short time, as the baby can quickly outgrow it.

The Bassinet

The bassinet is the ideal solution for settling baby in for the night upon returning from the hospital. Neither too big nor too small, it allows for a quality mattress and provides a bed adapted to baby's small size. Some models even come with built-in rockers, making it easier to soothe baby in the middle of the night.

You can also opt for a convertible baby bed that adapts as the child grows. Some models indeed offer a bassinet option. For example, our 3-in-1 convertible baby bed PALME. The convertible baby bed will then become a crib and later a standard child's bed. If you decide to get the complete baby room set, the convertible baby bed allows you to keep all your matching furniture throughout childhood. There are many different style models available, such as the vintage convertible baby bed with an antique furniture look.

The Co-Sleeping Crib

For the baby to stay close to their parents, they can opt for a co-sleeping crib. The co-sleeping crib is attached to the parents' bed using a dedicated fixing system. This allows keeping the baby close and particularly facilitates night-time breastfeeding. Here too, you can find all sorts of models, including lightweight, easy-to-fold canvas co-sleeping cribs. You can also choose a solid wood baby bed if you want a more durable and quality solution.

When opting for a wooden baby bed, it's preferable to choose French manufacturing, wood from eco-managed forests, with water-based paint if opting for a white or coloured bed, and with a low formaldehyde content. Being attentive to all these criteria helps preserve the baby's well-being.

The Baby Crib

The baby crib is a classic choice that will typically be used until the child is about 2 years old. Generally, parents prefer to set up a crib in the baby's room and move the baby there when they're a bit older. Upon returning from the hospital, parents often opt for a bed more suited to the baby's size, which they place in their own bedroom.

While a traditional crib is perfectly fine, there's also what's known as a combination baby bed. This combined bed integrates a crib for the baby, along with other furniture like a changing table or storage units, for example. It's a very practical solution when space is limited. A combination baby bed can also be a convertible baby bed, like our ANTON model for instance. Once again, the convertible combination baby bed is a very practical and economical solution.

Whether it's a simple bed or a convertible baby bed, don't forget to choose a good quality baby mattress. It's recommended to opt for a natural product made from cotton or bamboo, for example. This is also true if you need to equip your baby bassinet with a mattress.

Some advice for baby's first nights

1️⃣ For the baby to feel comfortable from the moment they return home, there are several recommendations to consider. First of all, it is imperative that the room temperature is between 19 and 21 degrees Celsius. So be careful to regulate your heating. If it's summer, it's not recommended to use air conditioning in a room where a baby is sleeping. Adjust the child's clothing accordingly and ventilate the room to let in fresh air whenever possible.

2️⃣ Choose a convertible baby bed, co-sleeping crib, or simple bed with a firm mattress suitable for infant sleep. Don't use a crib bumper, blanket, comforter, or pillow. The child should be placed in their bed with their bodysuit and/or pyjamas and sleeping bag, that's all. If in doubt, always refer to your midwife's recommendations.

3️⃣ Upon returning from the hospital, adapt to the baby's rhythm and it's only over the weeks that you'll establish a more set routine each evening. Also follow your midwife's advice regarding night-time breastfeeding. If you experience difficulties with your baby's sleep, you can consult the paediatrician, midwife, or even a specialised sleep consultant to find solutions that suit your child.