Cot bed vs bedside crib: which is better?
Short answer: They do different jobs. A cot bed is a cot with removable sides and ends that converts into a toddler bed, most often taking a 140 x 70cm mattress. 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. Choose by your baby's stage, your space and how long you want to use it.
Cot bed
Used as a cot from birth, then as a toddler bed once your child is climbing or ready for a bed.
- Check the mattress size listed for the frame. 140 x 70cm is common, but not universal.
- Keep every conversion panel, bolt and instruction sheet for the toddler-bed stage.
- Look at adjustable base heights, teething rails and any matching furniture.
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.
| Cot bed | Bedside crib | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | as a cot from birth, then as a toddler bed once your child is climbing or ready for a bed | from birth, for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's weight or development limit |
What the guidance says
- 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.
- 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.
- Cots and travel cots: look for BS EN 716-1:2017.
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
Related questions
How long can you use a cot bed?
As a cot from birth, then as a toddler bed once your child is climbing or ready for a bed.
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.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Whitby Cot Bed - White
- Thea Cot Bed - Latte
- Vox Vintage Fresh Convertible Cot Bed 70 x 140cm
- Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot in Warm Grey
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Can an 11 month old have a cot bumper?Can a 2 week old sleep in their own room?Can an 11 month old sleep in a travel cot?Can a 9 month old have a cot bumper?Moses baskets buying guide for UK parentsSafer sleep standards quizAll safe sleep and sleep spaces advice →
Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (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.