Bedside Crib vs Cot: Which Should You Choose?

August 21, 20265 MinutesProduct Spotlight

Megan Taylor

Marketing Executive

One of the first decisions you'll make before your baby arrives is choosing where they'll sleep. As you start researching, you'll probably come across bedside cribs, cots and co-sleepers – but what do they all mean, and which one is right for your family? The answer depends on your baby's age, your home and how you plan to use your nursery during those precious early months.

In this guide, we'll explain the differences between a bedside crib and a cot, the benefits of each, and help you decide which sleep solution best suits your growing family.

What is a bedside crib?

A bedside crib (sometimes called a co-sleeper or next-to-me crib) is designed to sit alongside your bed during your baby's first few months.
It allows your little one to sleep in their own safe space while remaining close enough for comforting, feeding and those frequent night-time wake-ups.
Many parents choose a bedside crib because it helps make those early weeks feel a little easier while following safe sleep guidance.

What is a cot?

A cot is a larger sleep space designed to support your baby beyond the newborn stage.
Whether it's in the nursery from day one or introduced a little later, a cot provides plenty of room for your baby to grow while creating a dedicated sleep environment.
Many modern cots also include practical features such as adjustable mattress heights and day bed conversion, making them a versatile choice for growing families.

What's the difference?

Bedside Crib	Cot
Suitable from birth	Suitable from birth
Designed for the newborn stage	Designed to last into toddlerhood
Keeps baby close during the night	Usually placed in the nursery
Compact size	Larger sleeping area
Typically used until around 6 months	Usually suitable until around 2 years

Benefits of a cot

Lasts longer - Unlike a bedside crib, a cot can usually be used until around two years of age, giving your child plenty of space as they grow.
More sleeping space - The larger sleeping area means your baby has room to stretch, roll and develop as they become more active.
Nursery ready - A cot creates a beautiful focal point within your nursery and helps establish a dedicated sleep space that will become part of your child's daily routine.

Benefits of a bedside crib

Easier night feeds - Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding, having your baby nearby can make night feeds more convenient without needing to walk to another room.
Keeps baby close - Many new parents find comfort in being able to see and hear their baby throughout the night while still giving them their own dedicated sleep space.
Perfect for the newborn stage - A bedside crib is designed specifically for those first precious months, when your baby is waking frequently and spending most of their time sleeping.

Can you skip a bedside crib?

Absolutely! Many families move straight to using a cot from birth, especially if they have space for the nursery or simply prefer to invest in one sleep solution from the beginning. Others choose a bedside crib for the convenience of those early months before transitioning to a cot later on. There isn't a right or wrong answer - it's about choosing what fits your family's lifestyle and routine.

When should baby move from a bedside crib?

Every baby develops at their own pace, but most bedside cribs are suitable until around six months or until your baby can sit up, roll over or pull themselves up independently. At this stage, many parents choose to move their baby into a cot, giving them more room to sleep comfortably as they continue to grow. It's always important to follow the guidance provided by the manufacturer for your chosen sleep product.

Discover the CuddleCo Aria Rattan Crib
If you're looking for a beautiful newborn sleep space, our Aria Rattan Crib offers a timeless alternative.
Lovingly handcrafted almost entirely from natural rattan, Aria brings warmth, texture and character to your nursery. Its intricate woven detailing creates a beautiful focal point while providing a cosy and comforting sleep space for your newborn's earliest months.
Designed with natural materials and timeless styling, Aria blends effortlessly into both contemporary and traditional interiors, making it a beautiful choice for families who love design as much as practicality.
As your little one grows, you can transition to one of CuddleCo's thoughtfully designed cot or cot bed collections, creating a nursery that continues to evolve alongside your family.