What’s the difference between the DockATot and Purflo baby nests?

Shopping around for a safe, functional space for your little one during daytime naps, lounging or even overnight sleeping can be a little overwhelming given the wealth of safety guidelines that surround sleep.

For a great resting solution, many parents have chosen to invest in baby pods and nests. It can feel like there's grey area on what constitutes a baby nest or pod, but don't worry, the name only differs based on the model. From nest to pod, dock and more, they all typically offer the same purpose; a safe, comfortable and mobile place to encase your little lounger. While experts do not recommend them for unsupervised sleeping, there is one on the market that has undergone exhaustive safety testing relevant to marketing it as suitable for overnight use!

We've highlighted some of the all-important criteria of our favourite baby sleep pods and nests, specifically the DockATot Deluxe+ (originally Sleepyhead) and Purflo Sleep Tight Baby Bed, so you can shop with confidence, knowing what features to look out for and the differences between these hero products...

What are sleep pods + nests?

Also known as baby pods, sleep pods and sleeping nests, they are similar to a little cocoon for your newborn or baby to rest in. They typically feature a base mattress with wrap-around padded sides. Many parents remember the original baby nest, known previously as the Sleepyhead (now called DockATot). Created by Lisa Furuland Kotsianis the Sleepyhead was born from an idea to craft a womb-like resting space for her little one. 

Sleep pods and nests are different to sleep positioners which keep the child in a certain position with a strap or wedge. Instead, they are mostly used as a cosy, comforting place for your little one. Some parents use them for day-time lounging or somewhere to cocoon their little one if they need their hands-free, and even for supervised tummy time. All you need to your baby on their front with their armpits over the rounded padded end and their arms out in front of them!

The Purflo Sleep Tight Baby Bed

Perfect for safe sleeping

Safety is at the heart of Purflo, that’s why with the safer sleep guidelines in mind, the Sleep Tight Baby Bed has been designed with a firm, flat mattress suitable for use straight from birth. One breakthrough element of this baby sleep pod is it has been certified safe for sleeping! It has undergone a comprehensive risk assessment and extensive, exhaustive safety testing relevant to marketing it as suitable for overnight use. 

Features: This innovative baby pod solution features firm, breathable sides that cocoon your little one as they're strong enough to keep them for rolling out of bed. Better yet, it doesn't feel bulky or cumbersome due to the eco-friendly and breathable properties of a DuPont-patented fibre called sorona.

Material: It is made from 37% plant-based ingredients and retains its shape and structure to ensure it doesn’t flatten with age. 

Washing: Plus, there’s no need to worry about leaks and accidents as the bed is fully washable making sure little one is always in a clean and safe sleeping environment.

DockATot Deluxe+ Dock

Perfect for tummy time 

Formerly Sleepyhead of Sweden, DockATot docks were the original multi-functional sleeping pods for babies and toddlers sought to provide well-being, security, and happiness for your little one. The DockATot Deluxe+ Dock offers a gentle womb-to-world transition to soothe your newborn baby. It's a cosy micro-climate that's perfect for baby massages, tummy time or nappy changes.

Features: Superbly designed baby dock, the Deluxe+ offers a safe and comfortable space for your little one to lounge and play. Lightweight and portable, the DockATot Deluxe+ Dock is a convenient replacement for your baby travel cot on family adventures. Featuring a range of stunning, modern design, choose a dock cover that suits every nursery.

Material: DockATot uses soft fabrics that are free from harmful chemicals. More specifically with non-toxic dyes and crafted with low VOC which minimises the impact on the environment.

Washing: Each element of the dock is washable but for more detailed instructions please refer to the label on the bottom of your dock cover.

Specifications

Things to consider

If you do use a pod or nest and whichever model you decide to choose, before you shop make sure to always stick to the following guidelines:

1. Never let your baby sleep in a pod or nest unsupervised. Sleep pods and nests are used for daytime naps when your baby is with you and you can regularly monitor them. This excludes Purflo’s Sleep Tight Baby Bed which is the first of its kind to be certified safe by the British Standards Institute for unsupervised, overnight sleeping.
2. Regularly check in with your little one to ensure they have not moved their face into the side padding or are overheating.
3. If you think your little one needs more warmth than their sleepwear/clothes, use a lightweight baby sleeping bag.
4. Make sure to always follow the instructions labelled on the pod or nest.
5. Never use loose bedding or let anything cover your baby’s face.
6. Always place a pod or nest on a flat, firm and stable surface and never tilt or raise any part of it.
7. Position your baby with their feet at the foot of the pod or nest, giving as much space as possible between your little ones head and the padded sides.

Advice from The Lullaby Trust