Your baby should sleep in a cot or crib in the same room as you for the first six months of their life. However, if you don't have the space for a big cot in your room, the best Moses baskets are a great alternative.
Designed to be smaller than your standard baby beds, Moses baskets are practical beds that don't take up much room in your home and can be used in your bedroom or in the living room for daytime naps. They're also suitable baby beds to travel with if you need to.
Best Moses baskets at a glance:
Moses baskets are designed for use from birth until around six months, after which your baby can move into a cot in a room of their own. Some people also like to have a Moses basket in the living room so that they don't have to keep taking the baby to their room for a nap or have to move their bedside crib around the house.
How we tested the best Moses baskets
To fully put these Moses baskets through their paces, we called on our team of parent testers to try eight out the moses baskets on this list out over the course of a few weeks with their young babies. Moses baskets don't last too long, until some babies reach about six months but some may outgrow them quickly, so they were in the early days of parenthood. We asked them to consider various factors, including whether any assembly was required, their design, comfort and value for money. We also asked them to give each a score out of 5 and score each of the criteria individually. The Moses baskets tested ranged from more aesthetically traditional options such as the Clair de Lune Organic Natural Wicker Moses Basket with rocking stand and The Little Green Sheep Natural Knitted Moses Basket and Mattress, to more modern options such as the SnuzBaskit which is made from recycled felt, and the Shnuggle Dreami for a more contemporary look. Two other moses baskets were selected from trusted brands and included based on real mum opinions and reviews, to ensure your little one snoozes comfortably and safely.
Find out more about how we test and what we take into account in our testing process.
Best overall Moses basket
©MOTHER&BABYProduct dimensions: L84 x W46.5 x H31.5cm | Material: Polyester and wood | Weight: 3.65 kg | Additional features: Adjustable height, foldable stand
With two mesh windows for better visibility and breathability than most Moses baskets, this SnuzBaskit Moses basket has a modern design while being comfy and cosy; our parent tester said: "Having the SnüzBaskit from day one was a complete game changer for both myself and my baby girl. Like any newborn, she felt so tiny and precious that every moment holding her or moving her around felt so important. With the SnüzBaskit, I felt that every time I put her in there to sleep, she was okay, protected, and safe – allowing me to relax for those much-needed minutes of having hands that were free to make food and cuppas with!"
It’s another larger-than-average Moses basket, just like the Shnuggle Dreami (above), but again, this supposed longevity depends on how quickly your baby grows and develops; always stop using a Moses basket once your baby can sit up unaided.
This basket is made from 100 per cent recycled felt, meaning it’s extremely light to carry from room to room but feels luxurious and soft. There’s a range of muted, stylish colours to choose from, both for the basket and the wooden stand. The windows set this basket apart from others we’ve tested, and parents all seem to love being able to see their baby through the sides; one mum tester said: “Great product, lightweight and stylish – nice mesh feature on the sides for airflow and allows you to see the baby at a glance.”
The basket comes with its own breathable mattress; the cover is removable and washable, and you can buy a mattress cover separately; you can also buy a matching basket liner separately, too.
Read our full SnuzBaskit review
Pros
- It comes with a stand included
- Mesh windows on the sides to see the baby more easily
- Made with sustainable materials
- Range of colours to choose from for both basket and stand
Cons
- Mattress cover and liner are additional costs
- 20% lighter than standard Moses baskets
- 3D breathable mesh cover
- Sustainably sourced wood stand
Best Moses basket with rocking stand
©MOTHER&BABYclair-de-lune.co.uk
Product dimensions: L68 x W30 x H27 cm | Material: Willow wicker with natural bamboo mattress | Weight: 2.26 kg | Additional features: Rocking stand, mattress included
If you’re looking for a statement piece for your baby’s nursery or a stand-out gift for a loved one’s new arrival, this Moses basket ticks the boxes. With the basket, you also get a liner, mattress, and mattress sheet, and you can purchase it as a bundle with a wooden rocking stand. Our tester said, "This Moses basket is a brilliant combination of traditional skills and modern aesthetic." All materials used are organic or sustainably sourced, which, according to our tester, "just adds to the high standard of this product."
While the Moses basket stand is not height adjustable and was a bit shorter than our tester had expected, it does rock, and the height is that bit lower to allow for it to be placed next to your bed or near the sofa, ideal for having as a next-to-me crib or as a safe place for baby to nap during the day.
This bundle provides you with everything you need for your newborn’s first place to sleep.
Read our full review of the Clair de Lune wicker Moses basket.
Pros
- Organic and sustainable materials are used throughout
- Mattress sheet, mattress and Moses basket cover included
- Sturdy and timeless design
Cons
- Expected the stand to be taller
- 1 x Moses basket
- 1 x Stand
- 1 x Drape hanging frame
- 1 x Bedding set
- 1 x Safety mattress
Best contemporary Moses basket
Shnuggle Product dimensions: L90 x W44 x H63 cm | Material: Basket is made from non-toxic High-Density Polyethylene. Dressing set is 95% polyester and 5% cotton. The water-resistant mattress is made from a PU foam and the quilted mattress cover is 60% cotton, 40% polyester | Weight: 6kg | Additional features: Hypoallergenic
Made from hypoallergenic polypropylene instead of wicker, this contemporary Moses basket is well-ventilated thanks to its breathable base.
It's larger than traditional Moses baskets and comes with a luxury quilted mattress and 100 per cent cotton liner included, which is machine washable; being larger means, you might be able to use it for longer than other baskets, although always stop using a Moses basket as soon as your baby can sit up unaided for safety reasons.
The stand is different from most we’ve tested, as it can be used as a traditional basket stand, or turned over to be used as a curved rocking base. This makes this basket multi-functional and worth the higher price.
Our testers tried out the Moses basket and curved stand, which can be used in the fixed bed-height position at night or as a low-level rocking stand for daytime use; our mum tester Katy said: "One of the more sophisticated Moses baskets we tried, which is reflected in the price and in the fact that assembly requires a screwdriver (not included) and some elbow grease. The base is reassuringly sturdy and can be used as a rocker – very handy. The liner is easy to pop off, making it easy to clean. The handles are very short, making it awkward to carry – not ideal when running around after my toddler."
The basket is available in a range of neutral-tone colours. It’s easy to assemble, and our tester had no issues with assembly, unlike some basket stands; one reviewer said: “I assembled it by myself and had no issues at all. It is very easy to assemble, it doesn’t weigh much, and I could move both pieces by carrying them alone. Very good quality!”
We tested this Moses basket as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2018, where it was Shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket.
Read the full Shnuggle Dreami Clever Baby Sleeper review
Pros
- Two ways to use the stand
- Easy to assemble the base
- Modern style with a range of colours
Cons
- In rocking mode, it’s very low to the floor
- 3 x positionings
- Rocking and stationary mode
- Breathable airflow covers
Best natural knitted Moses basket
ON SALE
©MOTHER&BABYProduct dimensions: L82 x W42 x H24 cm | Material: Basket is made from 100% palm | Weight: 64kg | Additional features: One of the lighest out there, made from natural and sustainable palm leaf
This Little Green Sheep Moses basket is very traditional-looking. It is made from organic woven palm leaf, making it incredibly light to carry while very durable; our mum tester Hannah said: "I would recommend this to a fellow mum due to the high quality of the product, the look and how easy it is to move around the house, this means that your baby can come with you. Every new mum wants their baby to be safe and comfortable, which this product allows. My little girl loves being in the Moses basket and goes to sleep happily."
It comes with a hypoallergenic mattress, plus a quilted liner, and it is available in a small range of neutral colours; the liner is machine washable. This Moses basket is definitely an ideal choice for babies with sensitivities or allergies. The mattress is also temperature-regulating and features coconut fibres to support and reduce pressure points.
A Moses basket stand is available for an additional cost, and you can also buy a protective mattress cover separately.
We tested this Moses basket as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2020, where it won Silver for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket.
Read the full The Little Green Sheep Natural Knitted Moses Basket & Mattress review
Pros
- Strong and durable material
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Organic quilted liner
Cons
- It doesn't include a stand
- Hypoallergenic
- Lightweight
Best value Moses basket
Mother&BabyProduct dimensions: L82 x W42 x H24 cm | Material: Basket is made from 100% palm | Weight: 6.4kg | Additional features: One of the lightest out there, made from natural and sustainable palm leaf
This is the most traditional Moses basket we’ve tested, made from woven palm leaf, making it naturally breathable. It’s sturdy and lightweight, being easy to carry from one room to another with the integrated woven handles. It's available either as just the basket (ideal if you already have a mattress) or you can also purchase it with the lining, mattress, and bedding set included. There's even the option to purchase a stand so that you'll always have a safe place to rest the Moses basket. One review said: "Exactly what I was looking for! Just the basket, I have my own mattress, so this was perfect. It's light and strong and smells so good! It's made of natural straw. Sides are strong, even if the baby is active, it won't collapse, holds baby well! Absolutely love it! A lot better than those expensive fake Moses baskets."
Although the price is low for the Moses basket alone, remember that you need to add other purchases to the overall cost. If you want a stand, that would also be another cost to consider. Our tester tried out the Clair de Lune Palm Moses basket with folding stand and lining set, and was very impressed with the quality and softness of the lining and bedding - so it is worth considering purchasing the whole bundle if you want to ensure you have bedding that fits perfectly and matches the great quality of the basket itself.
Pros
- Most traditional Moses basket we’ve tested
- Natural products are breathable and sustainable
Cons
- You need to purchase a mattress and bedding separately
- Handwoven
- Naturally breathable
- Versatile
- Integrated handles
Best modern Moses basket - currently unavailable check back soon
Tommee TippeeProduct dimensions: 84L x 42W x 42H cm | Material: Wicker and recyclable materials | Weight: 4.69kg | Additional features: 300 airholes along the side and base allowing max airflow, strong handles
This modern, durable Moses basket is made from soft, hypoallergenic and recyclable material that is BPA and phthalate-free. It's well-ventilated - it features more than 300 air holes - and is really easy to clean - you just need to wipe it down with a sponge and soapy water.
Strong integrated handles make it easy to lift and move from to room, and it's ideal for overnight trips away from home as it's so light; our mum tester Verity said: "This is similar in appearance to the Shnuggle [tested below] but even more futuristic. It has lots of similar features: it's hypoallergenic, easy to clean and well-ventilated. There is plenty of room to grow lengthwise and probably a few more months of use widthways. The plastic is semi-flexible at the sides, which means the handles meet – very handy when you're carrying the basket with one hand at the same time as holding your baby."
It comes with a mattress and 100 per cent cotton waffle liner, as well as a rocking stand. You can buy the Moses basket separately without the stand, but this bundle saves you money on both. The stand can be set as fixed, without rocking. The mattress cover and the basket liner are both machine washable.
We like that it doesn’t look like a traditional Moses basket, but some grandparents might not like its modern design; one mum tester said: “I love this basket. It’s so easy to use, and the design is modern. My mum, however, didn’t like it and said it looked like a laundry basket. Luckily, she’s not the one who’s got to look at it every day!”
We tested this Moses basket as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2022, where it was Shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket.
Read our Tommee Tippee Sleepee Moses Basket with Stand review
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry from room to room
- Easy to clean with just a sponge
- Static and rocking options
Cons
- Some parents said the stand is difficult to build
- Adjustable safety stop
- Fear-free carrying
- 300 airholes to allow maximum airflow
Best contemporary Moses basket
Mamas And PapasProduct dimensions: L88 x W40 x H47 cm | Material: Wicker | Weight: 2.5kg | Additional features: No stand included, cover is 100% cotton
A traditionally styled wicker woven Moses basket in a light grey that will fit into most home decor styles, this basket makes up for a few fancy features with simple grace and good-quality workmanship. It comes with a mattress, washable covers, and a quilt. Although quilts aren’t recommended for use with newborn babies, use them with care.
You can buy a stand for this Moses basket separately. The handles, made from leather, make this easy to carry around the house; one mum tester said simply: “A lovely Moses basket. The little blanket is adorable.”
Pros
- Contemporary design
- Internals made with soft bamboo cotton
Cons
- The quilt might not be suitable for newborns
- Dressed with high quality materials
Best Moses basket for additional features
Pugglewww.online4baby.com
Product dimensions: L118 x W61.5 x H107cm cm | Material: Plastic | Weight: 9kg | Additional features: Stand included, folds for storage, two vibration levels
This Moses basket is possibly the most comprehensive on our list and looks more like a cot than a Moses basket. It features a stand with a storage basket at the bottom, plus a canopy, a nightlight, and even a vibration function and lullaby sounds to soothe your baby to sleep. This isn’t your average Moses basket. It folds up neatly, so it can be stored away easily; one customer review said: "Excellent quality! Snug as a bug in a rug and sleeps so well. Very sturdy and strong, and I love the storage at the bottom."
It comes with a mattress; the basket only comes in one grey colour, which is probably the only real downside. For a reasonable price, you get a lot of functionality with this Moses basket.
Pros
- Full of functions and features
- Includes sound and vibration functions
- Mattress is included
- A large storage basket underneath
Cons
- Not as portable as most we’ve tested
- Includes 3 removable Toys
- Folds for storage
- Mesh sides for breathability
9.
Ickle Bubba Nova Crochet Moses Basket & Foldable Stand
Best crochet Moses basket
Ickle BubbaProduct dimensions: L82 x W48 x H76 centimetres | Material: Crochet | Weight: 4.13kg with stand 3.7kg without | Additional features: Stand not included, includes mattress, three gorgeous colours to choose from including cloud, mocha and tawny
You may have seen crochet moses baskets all over your Instagram feed. Made with beautiful thick crochet which is sure to make your little one feel cosy and cocooned, this modern and unique will suit traditional and more modern tastes.
The basket is sturdy and comes with a plush mattress that will support your little one. One parent tested said, "The Moses basket was perfect. Exactly what we needed and love the neutral colours which fit in with our living room. Easy to move around too."
As well as looking the part in your home the Ickle Bubba Nova comes with a foldable stand and the bassinet is flexible, meaning you can pack it down for quick and easy storage or take it travelling with you.
Pros
- Flexible crochet bassinet
- Folds down and foldable stand
- Gorgeous colours
Cons
- May be a little too small for some
- Handwoven
Can you use a Moses basket overnight?
A baby can sleep in a Moses basket during the night, and ensure the basket is free from covers, teddies and any pillows. For safe sleep, the Lullaby Trust recommends that your baby must be in the same room as you for the first six months.
Best baby moses baskets FAQs
Do you need a Moses basket?
Some mums prefer their babies to sleep in a cot from day one, as it means not having to make the transition from a bedside crib or Moses basket to a cot later on. Others think their tiny newborn might feel rather lost in the vastness of a cot and prefer a cosier cocoon for the first few months. If that's you, or if you can't fit a cot in your bedroom, then a Moses basket is the answer.
Would a bedside crib be better?
The main advantage of a Moses basket over a bedside crib or baby cot bed is portability – a Moses basket has handles on either side of the bassinet, so you can easily carry it with you from room to room when your baby is napping. If you'd rather your baby always nap in your bedroom, then a bedside crib may be a better choice. Moses baskets are generally a more affordable option, too.
When do babies outgrow Moses baskets?
Moses baskets are usually suited to babies from newborns up to the age of four months old. However, it's worth noting the weight limit of your Moses basket, as some babies can exceed the limit before, and some are also suited to babies up to six months old.
Another thing to note is that if your baby can sit up or pull themselves up on their own, then it's time to transition your baby to a cot.
Do moses baskets take up a lot of space?
You won't use a Moses basket for long, but this piece of baby kit will have huge sentimental value. You might want to keep it for another baby or as a little basket for teddy bears. Some designs fold neatly away for easy storage once outgrown.
Moses baskets can be pretty versatile. You can have one for your baby in your bedroom or even for the room you spend the most time in during the day. Most Moses baskets also come with handles so that they can be easily moved too.
Can you use moses baskets for travelling?
A Moses basket isn't specifically designed for travel use, but when you're popping in to visit the grandparents overnight, taking it with you is easier than packing a travel cot. Plus, your baby is likely to sleep better in the familiarity of their usual bed.
How we test and choose recommended products
Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.
Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.
For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.
Samantha Ball is a Product & Lifestyle Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full-time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.