How long does a baby stay in a bedside crib?
Short answer: Until the crib's weight or development limit in the instructions. Many families move to a cot or cot bed at around 6 months, once room sharing is no longer needed.
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
- 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 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 3 month old sleep in a cot bed?Can an 18 month old sleep in a cot bed?Your 6 month's sleep space: a safe-sleep guideCan an 11 month old sleep in their own room?Newborn first week sleep quizYour 5 month's sleep space: a safe-sleep guideAll 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.