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Best cribs and bedside co-sleeper cots 2024: tried, tested and approved by parents

Choosing your baby's very first bed can be a tricky purchase, especially if you don't know what to look for. After months of research and testing, we round up the best cribs and co-sleeper cots for newborns, plus current discounts on our best buys!

By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated Dec 9, 2024

best cribs

Moses basket? Traditional cot? Co-sleeper? Cradle? Cot bed? Crib? With so many options to choose from, you'll be forgiven for feeling a bit bamboozled. Moses baskets and cradles are usually used during a baby's first few months, while the best co-sleepers, cribs and cots can last a bit longer. As well as finding the best baby monitor to suit your needs, choosing the best newborn bed for your lifestyle and home is an essential you'll want to get sorted before your due date. Scoping out the best travel cot, or shopping for gadgets like a white noise machine, can come later.

The best bedside cribs and co-sleepers: our top 12

In this article, we’ll round-up the best bedside cribs on the market right now. Be sure to check out our guide to the best cot beds and cots too. We’ve rigorously tried and tested various cribs to put them through their paces and determine the very best, along with scouring our forums for recommendations that Mumsnet users swear by.

Read next: Your chance to win spectacle frames and lenses worth £500 for your child

How we tested the best cribs

Partnering with our carefully selected panel of discerning parent testers, we put our shortlist of the best cribs through their paces over several months of rigorous testing, assessment and review. Our testers - Anna, Lauren, Kayla, Phil and Tina - are all real parents who used the cribs in real life conditions (with their very real babies!) scoring them on a number of important factors including safety, durability, standout features and value for money. Read on to discover their thoughts on our pick of the best cribs and co-sleepers for newborns 2024.

1
Best crib overall
What we like
  • Four tilt options and a rocking mechanism

  • More spacious than other bedside cribs

  • Mesh covers let air flow freely throughout the crib

  • Crib and mattress covers are removable for cleaning

What we don't like
  • Can’t be rocked when it's in co-sleeper mode

  • Fairly heavy – some parents may find it too bulky to use as a travel cot

Key specs

Price on writing: From £179 | Size: H66.5 x W73 x D99.5cm | What's included: Mattress, straps, travel bag | Height settings: 11

What Mumsnet users say
queensvillage1 · Tried & Tested
The Next 2 Me cot was honestly the best thing I bought for my son and I would 100% recommend one. He loved being close to us, and we loved having him there and he always settled and slept really well. He's 6 months old now and we've only just finished using it in the last week. I was really upset when he got to big for it and had to go in a 'big' cot. I have just sold it on Facebook marketplace for more than half the original price so although the initial outlay was more expensive than a Moses basket after selling it it worked out to be about the same.
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet writer Gemma Wilcock: Read our full Chicco Next 2 Me Magic review

Safe, spacious and functional, the Chicco Next2Me Magic is a super popular choice among Mumsnetters – and for good reason. It’s roomy with plenty of space for baby to grow and wriggle – much bigger than a Moses basket. Plus, it’s really easy to comfort your baby in the night when in side-sleeping mode as you don’t have to get out of bed. The Next 2 Me can be used as a stand-alone crib, side-sleeper and includes a travel bag so you can use it as a travel cot when away from home.

Perfect for breastfeeding mothers, this bedside crib will give peace of mind to parents – especially first-timers – who want to keep their baby close during the night. Although it looks very similar to cheaper co-sleepers like the Next2Me Original, it's the details - like a whopping 11 height settings and one-handed drop side - that make it the best. With thousands of Mumsnetters and happy customers agreeing, we've crowned the Chicco Next 2 Me Magic the best co-sleeper crib for 2024.

Read next: The best Moses basket mattresses, tried and tested

2
Best co-sleeper crib for breathability
What we like
  • Mesh sides are made from 100% recycled plastic

  • Slide function fits perfect height to your bed

  • Tilts for reflux

  • Comes with a travel bag

What we don't like
  • Thinner mattress than other models

  • Basket is not as large as it could be

Key specs

Price: £170 | Dimensions: H74.7 x W64 x D97cm | What’s included: Mattress, travel bag | Height settings: five

What Mumsnet users say
Alexis7890 · Tried & Tested
We have a Maxi-Cosi Iora Air and it’s great. It was recommended to us by 3 different friends who had used it with their babies including one who had the Chicco with their first and much preferred this for their second. Our 6-week-old baby seems happy in it and very easy to set up etc
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Maxi-Cosi Iora Air Review

Featuring a new, more breathable design as an upgrade to the classic Iora, the Maxi-Cosi Iora Air is a fab choice of co-sleeper, whatever kind of bed you have - including divans. The crib comes with straps which sit under your mattress to keep it secure and connected. The slide function makes it easy to get a perfect fit, and the drop-side can be zipped up when you want to use it as a standalone crib.

The crib features hidden wheels for ease of portability, five different height settings which can be used both to lower and raise the crib or just on one side to ease reflux or congestion.

Related: The best mattresses for kids, tried and tested by Mumsnetters

3
Best crib budget buy
What we like
  • Easy to move around the house

  • Lightweight

  • Great price

What we don't like
  • Side is fiddly to lower

Key specs

Price on writing: £74 | Dimensions: H68 x D90 x W80cm | What’s included: Mattress, sheet, travel bag | Height settings: 5

What Mumsnet users say
KHR1 · Recommended
I have the Kinderkraft Neste bedside crib and love it (only difference is the legs are straight and it has handles on the top of them)! It seems no different to the Chicco Next 2 Me but is a fraction of the price! It's a decent size, looks nice and is really handy next to the bed. It's pretty sturdy too. I also love that it can be tilted if you have a little one with reflux or anything.
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Our verdict

Made to be moved around, the Neste from Kinderkraft is really lightweight so you can carry it from room to room, or tilt the base to wheel it around. This comes in handy for daytime naps, so it’s great if you just want to buy one thing for your baby to sleep in at home, rather than a crib for your bedroom and a moses basket for elsewhere.

The retractable side is a bit fiddly to take down, but this shouldn’t be an issue for comforting your baby at night as it would already be in the open position. The crib fits snugly next to your bed, with straps to keep it in place. There’s a recline setting for reflux, a carry bag to take it on trips and the mattress and sheet are included when you buy.

Related: The best nappies, tried and tested by real parents

4
Best co-sleeper for design
What we like
  • Seven height settings

  • Includes travel bag

  • Easy to assemble

  • Crib is well-made and feels very sturdy and safe

What we don't like
  • Crib is quite large, which may make it unsuitable for smaller bedrooms or newborns who prefer a cosier sleep environment

  • Drop panel a little tricky to use

  • No rocking feature

Key specs

Price on writing: £145 | Size: L93 x W57 x H71cm | Age suitability: 0 - 6 months or 9kg | Number of incline settings: 7 | What's included: Crib, travel bag, shelf under crib, mattress

What Mumsnet users say
Parent-tester Kayla · Recommended
The crib is beautifully designed. It's very sleek and attractive and the wood finish is very appealing.
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Silver Cross Lunar Bedside Crib Review

A new release from Mumsnet-favourite brand Silver Cross, the Lunar Bedside Crib is a sleek, beautifully designed co-sleeper which ticked all the boxes for our parent-tester.

Lined with natural bamboo and with a high-quality mattress, mattress protector and travel bag included, the Lunar is as practical as it is attractive. It also features a useful storage shelf for all your newborn essentials as well as side pockets.

There are seven incline positions and the crib can be used until baby is around six months old.

5
Best crib with gliding feature
What we like
  • Easy to assemble

  • Very portable to transport around the house

  • Affordable

  • Smart and practical

What we don't like
  • Gliding feature could be better - considering it's a selling point it didn't blow our tester away

  • Legs stick out at an angle which tester found a bit of a trip hazard

  • Not as sturdy as a permanent cot

Key specs

Price on writing: £75 | Size: L70, W61, D108cm | What's included: Mattress with cover, travel bag | Height settings: N/A | Rocking feature: Yes

What Mumsnet users say
Parent-tester Phil · Tried & Tested
It's good value for money. It's smart, practical if you want something that can fold down easily, be taken apart and carried.
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Ickle Bubba Drift Gliding Crib review

With all the portability of a Moses basket but the added benefits of a comforting gliding feature, the Ickle Bubba Drift is a great budget buy if you're looking for something a little sturdier than a basket but not as pricey as the likes of the Next2Me or Iora.

It comes in a simple, grey fabric finish and features mesh panels for added breathability and visibility, though the sides don't roll down and it doesn't fasten to the bed so definitely falls more into the crib than co-sleeper category.

Our parent-tester Phil said he liked the portability of the crib, pointing out that it could be easily moved from one room to the next and would be ideal to take on holiday when folded down and placed in the included travel bag. We also like that it comes with a removable mattress cover, though you may still want to use a protector.

6
Best crib for travel
What we like
  • Drop side is helpful for night feeds, especially if you're breastfeeding or recovering from a caesarean section

  • Can be used as a stand-alone crib

  • Mesh windows allow air to flow freely

  • Lightweight

What we don't like
  • Doesn't have wheels so it can be difficult to move up and down the stairs when unfolded

  • Doesn't rock

Key specs

Price on writing: From £155 | Size: L92, W56, H84cm | What's included: Mattress, travel bag | Height settings: 6

What Mumsnet users say
eggontoast2 · Tried & Tested
I have a Tutti Bambini and it's been brilliant. Used it for my first DS and currently using it for DS2. Lots of room which has been great as both of my babies have been tall. You can also adjust the height of the crib which was essential after two c-sections as it made it easier to lift both baby out of the crib to feed, I didn't gave to stand up 100 times a night, I could perch on end of bed and lean over.
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YouCantBeSadHoldingACupcake · Recommended
I have the Tutti Bambini CoZee as well. Dd is 8 months in a couple of days and still fits comfortably. Unfortunately she learnt to pull herself up to standing yesterday so will have to stop using it.
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet writer Gemma Wilcock: Read our in-depth Tutti Bambini CoZee review

The Tutti Bambini CoZee is an easy-to-use bedside crib that's ideal for any new parent. Spacious and less bulky than other co-sleepers, such as the Chicco Next2Me Magic, it’s height-adjustable to fit any bed, has an anti-reflux incline setting and can be attached to the bed safely using straps.

With a breastfeeding-friendly drop side, a 30-second open and fold mechanism and machine-washable covers, it offers everything a baby needs to sleep comfortably and safely during the day or night. It's great for parents who want to try co-sleeping, but need extra reassurance. It’s also small, light and easy-to-assemble enough to be used as a travel cot whenever you're away from home.

Looking for a more breathable version? Read our Tutti Bambini CoZee Breeze Plus Co-Sleeping Bassinet review

Read next: The best cot mattresses for safety and comfort

7
Best crib with a removable carry cot
What we like
  • Lift off basket

  • Fits perfectly to bed height

  • Looks great

What we don't like
  • Rocking the crib is awkward from bed

Key specs

Price: £187 | Dimensions: H95 x W49 x D100cm | What’s included: Mattress, bed straps | Height settings: n/a

What Mumsnet users say
MariaDingbat · Tried & Tested
I love my Snuzpod. I didn't fix it to the bed, but we zipped the side down at night when we needed to reach my daughter and she only grew too big for it at 8 months. The reflux tilt was really handy but the rocking wasn't great. We could side it between rooms easily too.
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hithere5677 · Recommended
The Snuzpod is well worth the money! It's gorgeous and so practical. Both of my boys slept really well in it for 7 months, very safe as you strap it to the bed. Would defo recommend.
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet: Read our full Snuzpod Crib review

With its cool Scandi style and great temperature-regulating details, the Snuzpod 4 is the latest model of the bedside crib Mumsnetters really love. Like a Moses basket, the part of the crib that you baby sleeps in can be easily lifted out.

The lightweight basket can be lifted out of the sturdy wooden base, so your baby can nap during the day wherever in the house you happen to be. If and when your baby sleeps in their own room, the crib easily detaches from your bed and makes a brilliant standalone crib. The curved wooden base does rock, but only back and forth, which can be awkward to operate if you’re lying in bed.

Read next: The best toddler beds and bed sheets

8
Best crib made from eco-friendly materials
What we like
  • Easy to assemble

  • Larger and longer-lasting than a standard Moses basket

  • Made from eco-friendly materials

  • Mesh lining is both breathable and allows for parent to see baby very easily

  • Height adjustable to fit neatly alongside bed

What we don't like
  • Pricey

  • Height adjustment can be a bit fiddly to adapt (but shouldn't really need to be once you've got the correct setting for your bed)

  • An earlier version of the crib had some safety concerns pertaining to the sturdiness of the panels and the height of the mattress when using the reflux tilt setting

Key specs

Price on writing: £250 | Dimensions: 82.4L x 48.4W x 85.4H cm | What's included: Crib, mattress, allen key for assembly | Age suitability: From newborn to 6 months (or baby able to roll)

What Mumsnet users say
Mumsnet editor Tina · Tried & Tested
I really like this crib, yes it’s a premium product but it has a premium look and quality finish that’s designed to last. 
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Tina Williams: Read our in-depth Gaia Hera Bedside Crib² review

Retailing at a hefty £250, the Gaia Hera Bedside Crib² is certainly an investment, but with a beautifully crafted design made from eco-friendly materials and coming with minimal plastic packaging, it's a stunning choice for both baby and the environment.

Our tester found that her son slept very well in the crib, which is larger than a Moses basket but not so large that it didn't feel like a safe, comfortable space for a newborn. She also praised the mesh design of the cradle, allowing for easy checking on her baby as he slept. Another great feature of the Hera is its castors, allowing for easier maneuverability around the bedroom than many competitor cribs.

Mostly, though, it's the look of the crib which makes it stand out, with Tina commenting, "it's just a nice piece of furniture that feels really well-made and built to last."

9
Best crib for longevity
What we like
  • Lasts up to nine months or until baby weighs 15kg

  • Sturdy and well-made

  • Very easy to assemble

What we don't like
Key specs

Price on writing: £290 | Dimensions: L76cm x W59.7 x H87.1cm | What’s included: Mattress | Height settings: 2

What Mumsnet users say
Mumsnet tester Tina · Tried & Tested
The mattress feels really breathable and well-made. [The baby] was very comfortable and happy in it. They settled really well, it was a cosy space which felt safe right from the start.
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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Tina Williams: Read our Stokke Snoozi review

One of the major downsides of any newborn crib, particularly the premium options, is that at best they will only last your baby up to six months or until they weigh 9 kg. The Stokke Snoozi stands out for its longevity - it's a little larger than most cribs and Moses baskets and thanks to the base-lowering feature, it is designed to last until baby is much older, around nine months.

While our tester was impressed with the sleek design, sturdiness and ease of assembly, the Stokke Snoozi is a very premium crib at almost £300 so we would advise keeping an eye out for deals or second-hand bargains.

10
Best rocking co-sleeper crib
What we like
  • One-touch rocking

  • Tilt for reflux

  • One-hand operated retractable side

What we don't like
  • Wheels are fixed so it's awkward to move around

Key specs

Price on writing: £140 | Dimensions: W69 x H81 x D99cm | What’s included: Mattress, bed straps, travel bag | Height settings: 11

What Mumsnet users say
Nat4392 · Tried & Tested
We have the Joie Roomie Glide dlx. I think it’s brill, baby is only 2 weeks old so obviously not had long term use yet but I can’t fault it. It’s super spacious and she will fit in it for a good while. It also has a glide feature (which I haven’t actually used yet). It also can be inclined if baby has colic etc. I had a c section and found it much easier to get her in and out of while I’m in bed, plus you can see her easily at all times.
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Our verdict

Designed with movement in mind, the Joie Roomie Glide features a smooth, one-hand glide function that makes rocking your baby to sleep a doddle. Many babies fall asleep more easily with rocking - whether it’s in the car, pram or sling, and this crib rocks gently from side to side at a pace you set.

All the adjustable features - height, incline and rocking - can be operated one-handed, which is a real life-saver when you often have your hands full with your baby, other children or the laundry basket and want to settle them down as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Related: The best breast pumps Mumsnetters swear by

11
Best wooden crib

Stokke Sleepi Mini Oval Crib

What we like
  • Converts into a cot and bed with extension kit

  • Suitable for up to age 5

  • Solid wood

What we don't like
  • Mattress and bedding sold separately

  • Not a co-sleeper

Key specs

Price on writing: £335 (or £563 for the crib + extention kit) | Dimensions: H87 x W67 x D82cm | What’s included: Just the crib | Height settings: 4

What Mumsnet users say
TheGriffle · Tried & Tested
I loved my Stokke Sleepi. I bought it second hand and it’s done my 2 girls and still in great condition. I had mattresses made for it and just used normal cot sheets and they fit fine. It grows with the child with the extensions and it’s very pretty.
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Our verdict

Tried and tested by Mumsnet: Read our in-depth Stokke Sleepi review

Suitable from newborn to age 5, the Stokke Sleepi has a unique, quirky look that’s a big hit with Mumsnetters. The oval design of the newborn crib is shaped to resemble a mother’s womb, and unlike other cribs it grows longer with your child using extensions.

At over £300, it’s on the pricier end of the market, and Mumsnetters say this one’s a great option for both buying and selling secondhand. The unusual shape and lengthening mean standard mattresses won’t fit this cot bed, so you’ll need to get a Stokke mattress or one of the cheaper versions available on Amazon.

Read next: The best changing bags - stylish bags and backpacks Mumsnetters love

12
Best crib with 360 swivel
What we like
  • Rotates to make getting out of bed easier

  • Tucks under your bed when not in use

  • Includes soothing sounds, vibrations and a nightlight

What we don't like
  • Requires 3 AA batteries

  • Pricey

Key specs

Price on writing: £135 | Dimensions: 114 x 61 x 94cm | What’s included: Mattress, sheet | Height settings: Not stated

What Mumsnet users say
Anon9990 · Tried & Tested
I have the Halo Bassinest and it’s been the best purchase we have made! The Bassinest rotates a full 360 onto the bed and u can ‘shoogle’ it like a pram through the night! The base is very heavy and sturdy so may be difficult to move room to room. But I am honestly so pleased with it. We did have a next to me but the let’s wouldn’t fit under our bed hence this purchase.
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Our verdict

With more bells and whistles than you can shake a stick at, the Halo BassiNest has really impressed Mumsnetters who've used it. It swivels 360 degrees, meaning you can smoothly shft it out of the way - an attractive feature for those pushed for space or if you've had a c-section.

The BassiNest comes complete with what's amusingly dubbed a 'soothing centre' - five buttons controlling the crib's vibration, sounds and light features. What's more, it folds right down to slide under your bed, which is amazing if you need the space during the day.

Read next: The best wearable breast pumps Mumsnetters swear by

baby lying in a crib

What are the safety guidelines for bedside cribs?

In 2020 British Standards were updated for bedside cribs, which now need to meet the new crib standard BS EN 1130:2019, which means all cribs need to have a 12cm barrier or wall while in bedside mode.

Most modern cribs already have this feature, which prevents babies from rolling out of the crib and into their parents' bed. In the majority of models this barrier is easy to fold down when your baby wakes for a feed in the night.

As the largest network of parents in the UK, we at Mumsnet know only too well the importance of providing a safe, comfortable space for a baby. We spoke to baby sleep experts at The Lullaby Trust and spent hours reading authentic reviews in the Mumsnet Talk forums, researching the beds that offered the best value for most parents.

What are the benefits of a bedside crib?

Babies need to be close to their parents, especially when they’re very tiny, and it’s very normal for them to want to be close to you while they sleep. While some families opt to bedshare, many new mums want a bit of their own space at night, as well as the peace of mind a safe bedside crib brings.

With a bedside crib, you’re able to keep your baby within arms reach, breastfeed at night without getting out of bed, all with the reassurance that your baby is sleeping in a safe place designed for their needs.

Bedside cribs are especially good for mothers recovering from a C-section, as it’s so much easier and less strenuous to lift your baby out of a bedside crib than a cot or moses basket.

How to choose the right newborn bed

We’ve compiled some tips to help you choose the product that’s right for you – and ensure your baby sleeps safely.

1. Safety first

The Lullaby Trust advise that you check your chosen bed complies with British Safety Standards. If bought second-hand, the bed and mattress must be in good condition.

Check that the bed is sturdy and well made with no gaps or loose parts, and that it will keep your baby secure with enough room to grow.

When it comes to a baby's safety while sleeping, you'll also need to check the mattress:

  • Is it firm? Your baby’s head should not sink into it by more than a few millimetres

  • Is it entirely flat with no raised or cushioned areas?

  • Does it have a waterproof cover so it is kept clean and dry?

Correct positioning

Babies must always be put to sleep on their back (never on their front or side) with their feet positioned at the end of the bed.

Any bedding and clothing covering them should also not rest above shoulder height or cover their face or head.

Pods, nests, pillows, duvets, thick or bulky bedding, cot bumpers, hammocks or sleep positioners aren't recommended, and the bed should also be free of loose bedding and soft toys.

2. A newborn bed is the right buy for you if…

  • You’re looking for a separate bed for your baby

  • You have room for one in your bedroom or downstairs for daytime naps

3. A newborn bed is not for you if…

  • You would prefer to share your bed with your baby and co-sleep

  • You have a limited budget and would rather spend money on a cot bed that will last longer than, say, a crib or Moses basketcot beds can eventually be converted into a toddler bed (yes, seriously)

4. How much do you want to spend?

Prices range from £80 to well over £400 so consider your budget.

If your baby isn’t sleeping well (and neither are you), it might be tempting to splash out on products that promise a better or longer night’s sleep, but the reality is that babies wake up even in the most expensive of beds.

What's the best crib to buy for a newborn?

The Chicco Next 2 Me Magic is the best crib to buy for a newborn. It's super easy to use, breastfeeding friendly and allows you to be right next to your baby while you both sleep. To read more about what our testers thought of this co-sleeping bed, head to our Chicco Next 2 Me Magic review.

About the author

Jenny Wonnacott has been working as a Content Editor for Mumsnet since 2022 with a particular focus on pregnancy, child and baby care product guides, articles and reviews. As a mum of three, Jenny has extensive hands-on experience in all of the Mumsnet content she writes about. She is passionate about sourcing, testing and thoroughly researching the products which make every stage of parenting easier, from the best pregnancy pillow to the most reassuring baby monitor as well as top kids' toys, games and tech.

Why you should trust our reviews

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