Bedside crib vs crib: which is better?
Short answer: They do different jobs. A bedside crib is a small crib with a drop-down or removable side that attaches safely to your bed, so your baby has their own separate sleep space beside you. A crib is a small free-standing baby bed, sometimes with a rocking or gliding action, sized between a Moses basket and a cot. Choose by your baby's stage, your space and how long you want to use it.
Bedside crib
Used from birth, for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's weight or development limit.
- Check it is made to BS EN 1130:2019.
- Make sure the fixing straps suit your bed frame and leave no gap between the crib and your mattress.
- Check the maximum weight and stage limits in the instructions.
Crib
Used for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's limit.
- Use a mattress made to fit that crib exactly.
- If it rocks or glides, check there is a lock and use it for sleep where the instructions say to.
- Check the weight and stage limits.
| Bedside crib | Crib | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | from birth, for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's weight or development limit | for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's limit |
What the guidance says
- The NHS advises placing your baby in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for every sleep, day and night, for at least the first 6 months.
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition, with no raised or cushioned edges, that fits the cot or Moses basket with no gaps.
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
Related questions
How long can you use a bedside crib?
From birth, for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's weight or development limit.
How long can you use a crib?
For the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's limit.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can an 8 month old still sleep in a Moses basket?Where should I put a Moses basket in the nursery?Summer sleep safety quizDo you need a travel cot?Moses baskets buying guide for UK parentsYour 5 month's sleep space: a safe-sleep guideAll safe sleep and sleep spaces advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.