How Long Can a Baby Sleep in a Moses Basket

Choosing where your little one sleeps in their early months is one of many important decisions you'll make as a new parent. And with concerns around sleep safety, it's one that might cause you to fret more than others. That's why we've written this article: to run you through the various considerations and, ultimately, to put your mind at rest.

If you're not already familiar, moses baskets are popular choices for newborns thanks to their snugness and portability. In this guide we'll explore the typical lifespan of a Moses basket, along with info on what makes them safe for overnight sleep, and how to transition your little one gently and confidently to their next sleep space.

Here's what we'll cover: 

The Difference Between Moses Baskets, Cribs and Cots 

Before deciding when to transition your little one, it helps to understand the difference between a Moses basket, a crib, and a cot.

Moses baskets are lightweight and compact, designed for newborns up to around 3-4 months or until your little one can roll over, push up, or sit independently. They're ideal for keeping babies close by in the first few months, and are often used with a folding stand that raises them to a more convenient height and keeps them close during naps or night-time feeds.

Explore our range of Moses baskets and stands 

Cribs are slightly larger and more robust than Moses baskets, and typically have fixed or rocking legs. Cribs may last your little one until 18-24 months, with transition advised when they reach ~90cm. Some cribs offer added features like breathable mesh sides or adjustable heights.

Explore our range of cribs 

Cots or cot beds are longer-term sleep solutions, which can be suitable from birth if a newborn insert or adjustable base is used, all the way up to toddlerhood. Cot beds can often convert into toddler beds for extended use - from 12 months up to ~5 years old.

Browse our collection of cots and beds 

Here’s a quick age suitability guide for each option: 

Are Moses Baskets Safe for Overnight Sleep? 

Yes, Moses baskets are safe for overnight sleep, provided they meet current safety standards and are used correctly. Look for a Moses basket that: 

While Moses baskets are safe for overnight use, they’re best suited for the early months when your baby is still small and not yet mobile. Once your little one starts rolling or pushing up, it’s time to move to a larger, more secure sleep space.

Always follow the ABCs of safe sleep: your little one should sleep Alone, on their Back, in a Clear sleep space.

For additional guidance on safe sleep practices, we recommend The Lullaby Trust's safer sleep information. 

When to Transition From Moses Basket to Cot 

Most babies outgrow their Moses basket by 3 to 4 months, but the right time to transition will depend on your little one’s development and the specific basket’s size. Key signs it might be time to move on include: 

If you're using a crib as an intermediate step, you may not need to move to a cot until ~6 months. Many families do switch straight from a Moses basket to a cot when their baby is ready, though. 

How to Move Your Baby From a Moses Basket to a Cot 

Moving your little one from a Moses basket to a cot can feel like a big step, but transitioning gently is definitely possible. Here are some tips to minimise disruption to their sleep routine:

1. Start with daytime naps: before switch for overnight sleep, get your little one used to the new space with daytime naps.

2: Use a familiar sleep aid: a sleeping bag or white noise machine can help to create continuity between sleep environments - just double-check everything you use is safe and age-appropriate.

3: Stick to your bedtime routine: maintaining the same bath-book-bed routine will help to reassure your little one that it’s time to sleep in the new space. 

4: Make it cosy (but safe): cots can feel big at first, so you may want to use a firm, snug-fitting mattress and consider a cot with adjustable heights. Avoid bumpers, pillows, or toys. 

5: Stay close by: if your cot is in another room, consider room-sharing for a while longer. The NHS recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents for at least the first 6 months. 

6: Be patient: some babies adapt quickly, others need a bit more time. Keep the atmosphere calm and consistent, and trust that your little one will settle into their new sleep space with reassurance and time. 

Moses Basket FAQs