Do I need a cot or just a bedside crib?
Short answer: Most families use a bedside crib or Moses basket for the early months, then a cot or cot bed once their baby outgrows it.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- 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.
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.
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
Related questions
What is a cot bed?
A cot with removable sides and ends that converts into a toddler bed, most often taking a 140 x 70cm mattress.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Obaby Grace Inspire Cot Bed - Guess - Scribble
- Ickle Bubba Coleby Classic Cot Bed and Under Drawer
- Mathy By Bols Madavin Adjustable Baby Cot 60 x 120cm
- Evie Cot Bed - White
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
What bedding goes in a cot?Your 15 month's sleep space: a safe-sleep guideCan twins share a cot?Can an 11 month old sleep in a cot?Travel cot quizWinter sleep safety 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.