Cot bed vs 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 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.
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.
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.
| Cot bed | Crib | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | as a cot from birth, then as a toddler bed once your child is climbing or ready for a bed | for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's 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 crib?
For the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's limit.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Tutti Bambini Casa 3 in 1 Cot Bed 120 x 60cm - Harvest Oak
- Obaby Grace Mini Cot Bed in Warm Grey
- Grace Cot Bed, Cot Top Changer + Fibre Mattress - Warm Grey
- Mathy by Bols Height Adjustable Baby Cot in Fusion Design available in 26 Colours
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
How long does a baby stay in a bedside crib?What bedding goes in a crib?Can a 15 month old sleep in their own room?Should my baby sleep in a bouncer?Second-hand nursery kit quizBritish Standards for baby sleep products explainedAll 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.