Moses basket vs crib: which is better?
Short answer: They do different jobs. A Moses basket is a small, light, portable basket bed for newborns, often used on a stand. 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.
Moses basket
Used for the first few months, until your baby reaches the maker's weight limit or can roll, sit or pull up.
- Use the mattress made for that basket, so it fits with no gaps.
- Use the basket on the floor or on its own stand, never on a raised surface like a sofa or table.
- Check the weight limit in the instructions.
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.
| Moses basket | Crib | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | for the first few months, until your baby reaches the maker's weight limit or can roll, sit or pull up | for the early months of room sharing, until your baby reaches the maker's limit |
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.
- 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.
- Moses baskets and carrycots: look for BS EN 1466:2014 or BS EN 1466:2023.
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
Related questions
How long can you use a Moses basket?
For the first few months, until your baby reaches the maker's weight limit or can roll, sit or pull up.
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
- Vox Muve Convertible Baby Crib 70 x 140cm
- CoZee XL Bassinet Accessory Pack
- Dorel Haven 3in1 Crib GRY Wgold Base Wrail
- Scout Travel Crib, Cot and Playpen Complete Toy Bar
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
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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.