Can a premature baby sleep in a bedside crib?
Short answer: Premature babies should follow safer-sleep advice for 12 months from their due date. Never bed-share with a premature baby. Check the crib's minimum weight and ask your neonatal team.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- 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.
What the guidance says
- Follow safer-sleep advice for every sleep until your baby is 12 months old (12 months from the due date for premature babies).
- Do not bed-share if your baby was premature or under 2.5kg at birth, or if you or your partner smoke, have drunk alcohol, or have taken drugs or drowsy medicine.
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
Related questions
What is a bedside crib?
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.
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Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can a 2 month old sleep in a cot bed?How do I prevent flat head syndrome?Myths about back sleepingCot bed vs toddler bed: which is better?Sleep position quizNight-time temperature quizAll safe sleep and sleep spaces advice →
Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Safer sleep advice (accessed 2026-10-21)
- 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.