Bassinets & Cradles

Best Bassinets & Cradles in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Choose, and Top Picks

Why a bassinet or cradle might be the best first bed for your baby

Thinking about where your newborn will sleep? A bassinet or cradle can feel like the perfect compromise between a full-size cot and sleeping on the sofa — compact, cozy, and often portable. These small beds are designed for the first months when your baby is newborn-sized and needs close proximity. They make night feeds easier, save floor space, and can be a gentler, more intimate first sleeping environment for parents who want their little one nearby.

How to choose the right style for your home and lifestyle

Picking a bassinet or cradle comes down to three things: safety, comfort, and practicality. Ask yourself: do I want a bedside crib so baby sleeps right next to me? Or a classic Moses basket that can be moved from room to room? Do I need a fold-flat option for travel or a fixed stand for a nursery? Consider weight limits, materials, mattress firmness, and how easy it is to clean — trust me, spills and surprises are part of life with a newborn.

Safety first: standards and common-sense checks

Always look for compliance with UK or European safety standards, sturdy construction, and clearly stated weight limits. The mattress should be firm and fit snugly with no gaps. Also check for breathable side panels and stable stands — nobody wants a wobbly bedside crib at 3 a.m. Safety stickers, user manuals, and online reviews are your friends when validating a model.

Top UK retailers where you can buy bassinets and cradles

The UK market has a healthy range of retailers offering bassinets and cradles — from specialist baby shops to larger department stores. Below I highlight several reliable sellers, including names featured in popular lists, and what makes each one worth a look.

Ebebek — specialist baby options with contemporary designs

Ebebek is known for a broad lineup of bassinets and bedside cribs. If you like Scandinavian and contemporary styles, their selection includes the Snüz Baskit Moses Basket & Stand Bundle in dark grey and natural tones, which blends a traditional woven look with a modern stand. They also offer the Snüzpod 4 bedside crib that converts into a cosy bedside sleep space, and the Graco Sweet2sleep bedside crib in oatmeal for parents wanting a soft, neutral palette.

Popular models you'll find from Ebebek

Expect to see everything from classic Moses baskets like the Shnuggle Classic Moses Basket to more multifunctional options like the Kinderkraft Lovi 3-in-1 baby crib in beige that can grow with your child. For parents dealing with reflux, models like the Baby Plus Mother Side Baby Reflux Bed (dandelion design) offer gentle incline features. If you want a simple, portable solution, the Clair De Lune Cream Dimple Palm Moses Basket is an elegant, cream-coloured choice that looks great in a nursery.

Why Ebebek might suit you

If you value a wide range of styles — from travel-friendly Moses baskets to bedside cribs with adjustable features — Ebebek is worth checking. Their range often includes bundles with stands and mattresses, which can take the guesswork out of buying accessories separately.

Nordic Nest — boutique designs and soft baby nests

Nordic Nest leans into stylish, design-led pieces, and they commonly stock baby nests from brands like Garbo&friends. These are not hard-sided bassinets but padded baby nests — essentially a soft, portable cocoon measuring about 17 x 34 x 6 inches — ideal for supervised naps and tummy-time sessions. Their colourways like Blueberry, Pomme, Plumbago, and Plum help parents match décor with practicality.

When a baby nest is the right call

Baby nests are great for short naps, supervised co-sleeping sessions, and for creating a snug, familiar spot in various rooms. They’re not a replacement for a firm bassinet mattress for unsupervised overnight sleep, but they are fantastic for daytime comfort and travel. If you love a boutique aesthetic and soft textiles, Nordic Nest curated choices are appealing.

Other trusted UK stores to consider

Beyond those specialist sellers, several well-known UK retailers routinely stock top-rated bassinets and cradles and can offer competitive prices and convenient return options.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis has long been a go-to for baby furniture. Their selection typically includes bedside cribs, Moses baskets, and bedside sleepers from mainstream brands like Snüz and Graco. What sets John Lewis apart is its in-store display options (if you want to test items) and long-standing reputation for quality customer service.

Mamas & Papas

Mamas & Papas focuses exclusively on baby gear and is often first to market with the latest styles. Expect modern bassinets, convertible bedside cribs, and travel-friendly options. Their nursery furniture tends to mix utilitarian design with soft textile finishes, making it easy to coordinate with nursery themes.

Argos

Argos is the budget-friendly, quick-buy option. They stock a wide variety, including travel bassinets and Moses-style baskets. If you want to get something same-day or at a lower price point, Argos often has good-value models that suit temporary or secondary sleeping needs.

Amazon UK

Amazon offers the broadest selection and a wide range of customer reviews. You’ll find everything from compact travel bassinets to higher-end bedside cribs and baby nests. Use reviews and verified purchase notes to gauge durability and real-life usability.

Key types of bassinets and cradles explained

Not all small baby beds are created equal. Understanding the main categories helps you pick the best fit for your needs and space.

Moses baskets

Moses baskets are lightweight, usually woven, and often come with a stand. They’re lovely for moving between rooms and look timeless. However, they’re typically suitable only while your baby is very small — think newborn stage — and have lower weight limits than bedside cribs.

Bedside cribs / bedside sleepers

These are designed to sit right up against the parents' bed so you can easily tend to your baby. Many models have adjustable heights and one side that drops or zips away for feedings. Bedside cribs are fantastic for breastfeeding parents who want proximity without co-sleeping.

Baby nests and loungers

These padded, soft-sided loungers are perfect for supervised naps, play, and travel. They’re snug and portable but are not meant for unsupervised overnight sleep. Think of them as a baby hammock for daytime comfort.

3-in-1 convertible cribs

If you want longevity, models labelled 3-in-1 will often convert from bassinet mode to a toddler lounger or travel cot. They cost more upfront but can save you money over time by growing with your child.

What to look for in mattresses and bedding

The mattress matters. It should be firm and fit the bassinet snugly. Breathable mattress toppers and fitted sheets designed specifically for bassinets prevent bunching and excess fabric. Always skip soft bedding, pillows, and loose quilts in the first year for safe sleep practices.

Measuring and sizing tips

Before buying a stand or cover, measure the internal dimensions of the bassinet and mattress. For baby nests like those offered by Garbo&friends, the typical size is about 17 x 34 x 6 inches — handy to know if you plan to buy fitted accessories or sheets.

Budgeting: what you can expect to pay

Prices vary widely. At the lower end, travel bassinets and basic Moses baskets can start at a modest price point, while designer models and advanced bedside cribs with multiple features sit at a higher range. As a rough guide, plan to spend a little more for certified bedside cribs and 3-in-1 convertible options if you want longevity and extra safety features.

Tips for keeping your bassinet or cradle fresh and safe

Regular cleaning and maintenance keep sleeping areas hygienic. Removable covers and washable fabrics are a boon. For wicker or woven Moses baskets, light vacuuming and spot cleaning help. For bedside cribs and baby nests, follow manufacturer washing instructions to avoid shrinking or damaging protective coatings.

Storage and travel advice

If you plan to travel, look for lightweight options with carrying bags or fold-flat stands. Some cradles and bedside cribs are designed to collapse easily, while Moses baskets tend to be best for short trips or moving around the house.

Making the final decision — questions to ask before you buy

Before you click “buy,” ask: Is this model certified to current safety standards? Does it fit the space next to my bed? Is the mattress firm and the right size? Can I afford any additional accessories like stands or fitted sheets? And finally, do I want something temporary or a crib that converts and lasts?

Final thoughts and practical next steps

Choosing a bassinet or cradle is as much about lifestyle as it is about style. If you value portability and aesthetic, a Moses basket or a Garbo&friends baby nest might be your match. If you want convenience at night for feeds and proximity, a Snüzpod or Graco bedside crib is a smart choice. Shop at established UK retailers like Ebebek, Nordic Nest, John Lewis, Mamas & Papas, Argos, and Amazon UK to compare models, read reviews, and find the best deal for your nursery.

Whatever you choose, aim for a safe, snug, and practical first bed that gives you peace of mind and gives your baby a comfortable start. Happy nesting!

Conclusion

Finding the perfect bassinet or cradle takes a little research but pays off with safer nights and easier days. Whether you prefer the portability of a Moses basket, the snugness of a baby nest, or the practicality of a bedside crib, the UK retail market has options to suit different budgets and tastes. Focus on safety, fit, and usability — and if you can, test options in person or read several trusted reviews. With the right choice, those early weeks will feel a little more manageable and a lot more cozy.