Can a newborn sleep in a cot?
Short answer: Yes. A cot with a firm, flat mattress is suitable from birth, in your room for at least the first 6 months.
Babies change fast, so the answer depends on your child's age, weight and development, and on your product's instructions.
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.
- Keep the cot clear: no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, loose blankets, soft toys, pods, nests, wedges or anything to keep your baby in place.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Stamford Space Saver Sleigh Cot - White
- Bantam Cot - White
- Coleby Space Saver Cot
- Bantam Space Saver Cot - White
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can a 7 month old sleep in a cot?Can a 6 week old sleep in their own room?Nursery shopping myths quizWill a cot fit in a small nursery?Your 11 month's sleep space: a safe-sleep guideIs a cot bed right for you? Quick quizAll 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.