Cradle beds – inspiration for safe and calm sleep
Cradle beds – inspiration for safe and calm sleep
A good night's sleep is important for both baby and parents. A cradle can give the child a safe and calm start in life by imitating the rocking motion reminiscent of the time in the mother's womb. At the same time, it allows parents to keep the baby close without compromising on safety. In this article, you will get an overview of what to consider when choosing a cradle, as well as an introduction to different types and brands on the market.
The article presents a selection of cradles in different designs and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of features, materials and possible uses, so you can more easily find a model that suits your needs. The information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and summarised to provide a clear and neutral overview.
Factors to consider when buying a cradle
When choosing a cradle, there are several practical and safety aspects you should take into account. Here we go through some of the most important considerations.
1. Safety and stability
Safety is crucial. Make sure the cradle meets current safety standards and stands stable, even when the baby moves. Check that the rocking function can be locked so the cradle can stand still when desired.
2. Materials and comfort
Many parents prefer natural materials such as wood and cotton, which are breathable and free from harmful substances. A good mattress with firm support and a removable cover makes cleaning easier and ensures a healthy sleeping environment.
3. Size and period of use
Cradles come in different sizes. Some models can be used from newborn up to around six months, while others can be adjusted and used for longer. Consider how long you want to use the cradle and whether it should be easy to move around the home.
4. Features and flexibility
Some cradles have a manual rocking function, while others can rock automatically. There are also models that can be attached to the parents' bed as a bedside crib, making night-time feeding easier. Think about which features best suit your daily routine.
5. Price and design
The price depends on materials, features and design. Simple models can be budget-friendly and functional, while designer cradles made from natural materials are often at the higher end. Choose a model that suits both your needs and aesthetic.
Products in focus
The Sleepi V3 Bed in natural beech is designed to follow the child's development through the first years of life. The oval shape and soft lines create a safe atmosphere, while the construction in solid European beech wood provides stability and durability.
The bed can be adjusted in both height and length to suit the child's needs as they grow. The mattress base can be set at four levels, making it easier to adapt the bed to different ages and stages of development.
The wheels make it possible to move the bed and create a gentle rocking motion, but they can be locked for stability. As the child gets older, one side can be removed so the child can climb in and out of the bed independently.
The design has been developed with a focus on safety, air circulation, and functionality. The perforated mattress base ensures ventilation, and the curved edges eliminate sharp corners. Sleepi V3 is not compatible with older versions of Stokke Sleepi accessories made before September 2022.
- Adjustable construction: Can be adapted to the child's growth from newborn to approx. 5 years.
- Solid beech wood: Made from European beech with environmentally friendly lacquer.
- Four mattress levels: Provides flexibility and safety in line with the child's development.
- Oval shape: Creates a safe and harmonious sleeping space.
- Lockable wheels: Make it possible to move the bed and create gentle movement as needed.
Pros and cons
- Long period of use from infant to approx. 5 years
- Stable construction in solid beech wood
- Adjustable height and removable side for older children
- Ventilated mattress base for better air circulation
- Timeless Scandinavian design
- Not compatible with Sleepi accessories made before September 2022
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros and cons
Pros
- Long period of use from infant to approx. 5 years
- Stable construction in solid beech wood
- Adjustable height and removable side for older children
- Ventilated mattress base for better air circulation
- Timeless Scandinavian design
Cons
- Not compatible with Sleepi accessories made before September 2022
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros
- Long period of use from infant to approx. 5 years
- Stable construction in solid beech wood
- Adjustable height and removable side for older children
- Ventilated mattress base for better air circulation
- Timeless Scandinavian design
Cons
- Not compatible with Sleepi accessories made before September 2022
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Stokke
- Model: Sleepi V3
- Colour: Natural
- Material: Solid beech wood, beech laminate and beech veneer
- Mattress levels: 4
- Size: 141 × 74 × 78 cm
- Weight: 22.16 kg
- Age range: 0–60 months
- Maximum load: 120 kg
- Designers: Susanne Grønlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen (1999)
- Item number: 354266
The Boxspring bedside crib in beige was developed as a solution for high beds and box mattresses, where standard bedside cribs often do not fit in height. It has a solid construction and stepless height adjustment, so the lying surface can be precisely adapted to the parents' bed.
The bed is made of solid beech wood, which is naturally antibacterial and antistatic. All surfaces are treated with lacquers that are free from harmful substances and solvents, and tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3. This ensures that the product is safe for the child.
The base plate has ventilation holes that provide good air circulation around the mattress. The construction is so stable that it can support up to 150 kg, making it resistant to the load of an adult.
The bed can be easily and securely attached to the parents' bed without the use of tools. It can also be used as a bench or play table when the child grows older. With the addition of a side panel, it can be converted into a closed bed.
The product is TÜV-tested and produced by Tobi GmbH & Co. KG in Germany, while the actual manufacturing takes place in Turkey. The series has received several awards and is recommended by midwives and breastfeeding consultants as a practical solution for nighttime closeness and security.
- Stepless height adjustment: Allows the bed to be precisely adapted to high box mattresses.
- Natural materials: Made of solid beech wood with environmentally friendly lacquers.
- Ventilated base: Provides good air circulation around the mattress.
- Stable construction: Can support up to 150 kg and withstand daily use.
- Flexible use: Can be used as a bench or play table, and can be closed with an additional side panel.
Pros and cons
- Suitable for high beds and box mattresses
- Solid and safe construction in solid wood
- Easy assembly without tools
- Can be used in multiple ways, even after the infant period
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
- Requires separate accessories to be closed as a regular bed
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros and cons
Pros
- Suitable for high beds and box mattresses
- Solid and safe construction in solid wood
- Easy assembly without tools
- Can be used in multiple ways, even after the infant period
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires separate accessories to be closed as a regular bed
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros
- Suitable for high beds and box mattresses
- Solid and safe construction in solid wood
- Easy assembly without tools
- Can be used in multiple ways, even after the infant period
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires separate accessories to be closed as a regular bed
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Tobi GmbH & Co. KG, Wildmoos 2, 82266 Inning am Ammersee, Germany
- Country of manufacture: Turkey
- Material: Solid beech wood
- Surface treatment: Lacquers free from harmful substances and solvents, tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3
- Load capacity: Up to 150 kg
- Ventilation: Base plate with air circulation
- Certification: TÜV-tested
- Colour: Beige
- Item number: 368697
The Stokke Sleepi V3 Mini is developed as a first bed for infants and is characterised by its oval shape, which creates a safe and inviting sleeping space. The compact width of 67 cm makes it suitable for smaller children's rooms or as a bed close to the parents' bed.
The bed is made of solid beech wood with an environmentally friendly lacquer and has curved edges without sharp corners. The perforated mattress base ensures good air circulation, and the lockable wheels make it possible to move the bed between rooms or use it as a light cradle.
The Sleepi concept is designed to grow with the child. The Mini version can later be expanded with conversion kits so that it can be used up to around 5 years of age. The construction is robust and built for longevity, while the Scandinavian design language gives it a timeless expression.
The design was originally developed in 1999 by Susanne Grønlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen and remains a popular choice for parents who want a combination of functionality and aesthetics in the nursery.
- Space-saving design: Only 67 cm wide, ideal for small rooms.
- Oval shape: Creates a safe and comfortable sleeping experience for the child.
- Lockable wheels: Makes it easy to move the bed and use it as a cradle.
- Adjustable base: Four mattress levels adapted to the child's development.
- Beech materials: Solid frame with environmentally friendly lacquer and good durability.
- Expansion option: Can be converted into a larger bed with an additional kit.
Pros and cons
- Compact and flexible construction
- Natural materials and environmentally friendly surface treatment
- Can be easily moved thanks to wheels
- Option to expand into a larger bed
- Timeless design that fits into most homes
- The mattress must be purchased separately
- Not compatible with canopy rods manufactured before September 2022
- Limited use in the Mini version (up to approx. 6 months)
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compact and flexible construction
- Natural materials and environmentally friendly surface treatment
- Can be easily moved thanks to wheels
- Option to expand into a larger bed
- Timeless design that fits into most homes
Cons
- The mattress must be purchased separately
- Not compatible with canopy rods manufactured before September 2022
- Limited use in the Mini version (up to approx. 6 months)
Pros
- Compact and flexible construction
- Natural materials and environmentally friendly surface treatment
- Can be easily moved thanks to wheels
- Option to expand into a larger bed
- Timeless design that fits into most homes
Cons
- The mattress must be purchased separately
- Not compatible with canopy rods manufactured before September 2022
- Limited use in the Mini version (up to approx. 6 months)
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Stokke
- Model: Sleepi V3 Mini
- Colour: White
- Material: Beech, beech laminate and beech veneer
- Surface: Environmentally friendly lacquer
- Mattress levels: 4
- Wheels: Lockable, can be used to rock the bed
- Product size: 82 x 67 x 87 cm (32.3 x 26.4 x 34.3 inches)
- Weight: 16.4 kg
- Age range: 0–6 months
- Maximum load: 120 kg
- Designers: Susanne Grønlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen (1999)
- Item number: 354264
The Boxspring bedside crib in white is designed to fit high beds and box mattresses. The tall construction and stepless height adjustment make it possible to align the sleeping surface precisely with the parents' bed, so the baby lies safely and close to the parents.
The bed is made of solid beech wood, which is naturally antibacterial and antistatic. The surface is treated with lacquers free from harmful substances and solvents, and tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3. This ensures a healthy sleeping environment for the baby.
The base plate has ventilation holes that provide good air circulation, and the construction can support up to 150 kg, which demonstrates its stability. The bed can also be used as a bench or play table when the child grows older.
The product is TÜV-tested and recommended by midwives and breastfeeding consultants as a practical solution for nighttime closeness and breastfeeding. By purchasing an additional side, the bed can be converted into a closed cot.
- Stepless height adjustment: Makes it possible to adapt the bed to high and frameless box mattresses.
- Solid beech wood: Naturally antibacterial and antistatic material without harmful substances.
- Ventilated base plate: Ensures good air circulation under the mattress.
- Multifunctional use: Can be used as a bench or play table when the child grows.
- TÜV-tested quality: Proven safety and stability.
Pros and cons
- Can be adjusted in height to fit different bed types
- Stable and robust construction in solid wood
- Free from harmful substances and solvents
- Can be converted into a bench or play table
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
- Requires an extra side to be used as a closed bed
- Wood material may require ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance
Pros and cons
Pros
- Can be adjusted in height to fit different bed types
- Stable and robust construction in solid wood
- Free from harmful substances and solvents
- Can be converted into a bench or play table
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires an extra side to be used as a closed bed
- Wood material may require ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance
Pros
- Can be adjusted in height to fit different bed types
- Stable and robust construction in solid wood
- Free from harmful substances and solvents
- Can be converted into a bench or play table
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires an extra side to be used as a closed bed
- Wood material may require ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance
Specifications
- Colour: White
- Material: Solid beech wood
- Adjustment: Stepless height adjustment
- Maximum load: 150 kg
- Surface treatment: Lacquer free from harmful substances and solvents, tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3
- Ventilation: Base plate with air circulation
- Manufacturer: Tobi GmbH & Co. KG, Wildmoos 2, 82266 Inning am Ammersee, Germany
- Country of manufacture: Turkey
- Item number: 365191
Product descriptions
The Sleepi V3 Bed in natural beech is designed to follow the child's development through the first years of life. The oval shape and soft lines create a safe atmosphere, while the construction in solid European beech wood provides stability and durability.
The bed can be adjusted in both height and length to suit the child's needs as they grow. The mattress base can be set at four levels, making it easier to adapt the bed to different ages and stages of development.
The wheels make it possible to move the bed and create a gentle rocking motion, but they can be locked for stability. As the child gets older, one side can be removed so the child can climb in and out of the bed independently.
The design has been developed with a focus on safety, air circulation, and functionality. The perforated mattress base ensures ventilation, and the curved edges eliminate sharp corners. Sleepi V3 is not compatible with older versions of Stokke Sleepi accessories made before September 2022.
- Adjustable construction: Can be adapted to the child's growth from newborn to approx. 5 years.
- Solid beech wood: Made from European beech with environmentally friendly lacquer.
- Four mattress levels: Provides flexibility and safety in line with the child's development.
- Oval shape: Creates a safe and harmonious sleeping space.
- Lockable wheels: Make it possible to move the bed and create gentle movement as needed.
Pros and cons
- Long period of use from infant to approx. 5 years
- Stable construction in solid beech wood
- Adjustable height and removable side for older children
- Ventilated mattress base for better air circulation
- Timeless Scandinavian design
- Not compatible with Sleepi accessories made before September 2022
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros and cons
Pros
- Long period of use from infant to approx. 5 years
- Stable construction in solid beech wood
- Adjustable height and removable side for older children
- Ventilated mattress base for better air circulation
- Timeless Scandinavian design
Cons
- Not compatible with Sleepi accessories made before September 2022
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros
- Long period of use from infant to approx. 5 years
- Stable construction in solid beech wood
- Adjustable height and removable side for older children
- Ventilated mattress base for better air circulation
- Timeless Scandinavian design
Cons
- Not compatible with Sleepi accessories made before September 2022
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Stokke
- Model: Sleepi V3
- Colour: Natural
- Material: Solid beech wood, beech laminate and beech veneer
- Mattress levels: 4
- Size: 141 × 74 × 78 cm
- Weight: 22.16 kg
- Age range: 0–60 months
- Maximum load: 120 kg
- Designers: Susanne Grønlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen (1999)
- Item number: 354266
The Boxspring bedside crib in beige was developed as a solution for high beds and box mattresses, where standard bedside cribs often do not fit in height. It has a solid construction and stepless height adjustment, so the lying surface can be precisely adapted to the parents' bed.
The bed is made of solid beech wood, which is naturally antibacterial and antistatic. All surfaces are treated with lacquers that are free from harmful substances and solvents, and tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3. This ensures that the product is safe for the child.
The base plate has ventilation holes that provide good air circulation around the mattress. The construction is so stable that it can support up to 150 kg, making it resistant to the load of an adult.
The bed can be easily and securely attached to the parents' bed without the use of tools. It can also be used as a bench or play table when the child grows older. With the addition of a side panel, it can be converted into a closed bed.
The product is TÜV-tested and produced by Tobi GmbH & Co. KG in Germany, while the actual manufacturing takes place in Turkey. The series has received several awards and is recommended by midwives and breastfeeding consultants as a practical solution for nighttime closeness and security.
- Stepless height adjustment: Allows the bed to be precisely adapted to high box mattresses.
- Natural materials: Made of solid beech wood with environmentally friendly lacquers.
- Ventilated base: Provides good air circulation around the mattress.
- Stable construction: Can support up to 150 kg and withstand daily use.
- Flexible use: Can be used as a bench or play table, and can be closed with an additional side panel.
Pros and cons
- Suitable for high beds and box mattresses
- Solid and safe construction in solid wood
- Easy assembly without tools
- Can be used in multiple ways, even after the infant period
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
- Requires separate accessories to be closed as a regular bed
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros and cons
Pros
- Suitable for high beds and box mattresses
- Solid and safe construction in solid wood
- Easy assembly without tools
- Can be used in multiple ways, even after the infant period
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires separate accessories to be closed as a regular bed
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Pros
- Suitable for high beds and box mattresses
- Solid and safe construction in solid wood
- Easy assembly without tools
- Can be used in multiple ways, even after the infant period
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires separate accessories to be closed as a regular bed
- Sold out online at the time of data collection
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Tobi GmbH & Co. KG, Wildmoos 2, 82266 Inning am Ammersee, Germany
- Country of manufacture: Turkey
- Material: Solid beech wood
- Surface treatment: Lacquers free from harmful substances and solvents, tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3
- Load capacity: Up to 150 kg
- Ventilation: Base plate with air circulation
- Certification: TÜV-tested
- Colour: Beige
- Item number: 368697
The Stokke Sleepi V3 Mini is developed as a first bed for infants and is characterised by its oval shape, which creates a safe and inviting sleeping space. The compact width of 67 cm makes it suitable for smaller children's rooms or as a bed close to the parents' bed.
The bed is made of solid beech wood with an environmentally friendly lacquer and has curved edges without sharp corners. The perforated mattress base ensures good air circulation, and the lockable wheels make it possible to move the bed between rooms or use it as a light cradle.
The Sleepi concept is designed to grow with the child. The Mini version can later be expanded with conversion kits so that it can be used up to around 5 years of age. The construction is robust and built for longevity, while the Scandinavian design language gives it a timeless expression.
The design was originally developed in 1999 by Susanne Grønlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen and remains a popular choice for parents who want a combination of functionality and aesthetics in the nursery.
- Space-saving design: Only 67 cm wide, ideal for small rooms.
- Oval shape: Creates a safe and comfortable sleeping experience for the child.
- Lockable wheels: Makes it easy to move the bed and use it as a cradle.
- Adjustable base: Four mattress levels adapted to the child's development.
- Beech materials: Solid frame with environmentally friendly lacquer and good durability.
- Expansion option: Can be converted into a larger bed with an additional kit.
Pros and cons
- Compact and flexible construction
- Natural materials and environmentally friendly surface treatment
- Can be easily moved thanks to wheels
- Option to expand into a larger bed
- Timeless design that fits into most homes
- The mattress must be purchased separately
- Not compatible with canopy rods manufactured before September 2022
- Limited use in the Mini version (up to approx. 6 months)
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compact and flexible construction
- Natural materials and environmentally friendly surface treatment
- Can be easily moved thanks to wheels
- Option to expand into a larger bed
- Timeless design that fits into most homes
Cons
- The mattress must be purchased separately
- Not compatible with canopy rods manufactured before September 2022
- Limited use in the Mini version (up to approx. 6 months)
Pros
- Compact and flexible construction
- Natural materials and environmentally friendly surface treatment
- Can be easily moved thanks to wheels
- Option to expand into a larger bed
- Timeless design that fits into most homes
Cons
- The mattress must be purchased separately
- Not compatible with canopy rods manufactured before September 2022
- Limited use in the Mini version (up to approx. 6 months)
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Stokke
- Model: Sleepi V3 Mini
- Colour: White
- Material: Beech, beech laminate and beech veneer
- Surface: Environmentally friendly lacquer
- Mattress levels: 4
- Wheels: Lockable, can be used to rock the bed
- Product size: 82 x 67 x 87 cm (32.3 x 26.4 x 34.3 inches)
- Weight: 16.4 kg
- Age range: 0–6 months
- Maximum load: 120 kg
- Designers: Susanne Grønlund and Claus Hviid Knudsen (1999)
- Item number: 354264
The Boxspring bedside crib in white is designed to fit high beds and box mattresses. The tall construction and stepless height adjustment make it possible to align the sleeping surface precisely with the parents' bed, so the baby lies safely and close to the parents.
The bed is made of solid beech wood, which is naturally antibacterial and antistatic. The surface is treated with lacquers free from harmful substances and solvents, and tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3. This ensures a healthy sleeping environment for the baby.
The base plate has ventilation holes that provide good air circulation, and the construction can support up to 150 kg, which demonstrates its stability. The bed can also be used as a bench or play table when the child grows older.
The product is TÜV-tested and recommended by midwives and breastfeeding consultants as a practical solution for nighttime closeness and breastfeeding. By purchasing an additional side, the bed can be converted into a closed cot.
- Stepless height adjustment: Makes it possible to adapt the bed to high and frameless box mattresses.
- Solid beech wood: Naturally antibacterial and antistatic material without harmful substances.
- Ventilated base plate: Ensures good air circulation under the mattress.
- Multifunctional use: Can be used as a bench or play table when the child grows.
- TÜV-tested quality: Proven safety and stability.
Pros and cons
- Can be adjusted in height to fit different bed types
- Stable and robust construction in solid wood
- Free from harmful substances and solvents
- Can be converted into a bench or play table
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
- Requires an extra side to be used as a closed bed
- Wood material may require ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance
Pros and cons
Pros
- Can be adjusted in height to fit different bed types
- Stable and robust construction in solid wood
- Free from harmful substances and solvents
- Can be converted into a bench or play table
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires an extra side to be used as a closed bed
- Wood material may require ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance
Pros
- Can be adjusted in height to fit different bed types
- Stable and robust construction in solid wood
- Free from harmful substances and solvents
- Can be converted into a bench or play table
- Ventilated base for better air circulation
Cons
- Requires an extra side to be used as a closed bed
- Wood material may require ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance
Specifications
- Colour: White
- Material: Solid beech wood
- Adjustment: Stepless height adjustment
- Maximum load: 150 kg
- Surface treatment: Lacquer free from harmful substances and solvents, tested according to DIN EN 71 part 3
- Ventilation: Base plate with air circulation
- Manufacturer: Tobi GmbH & Co. KG, Wildmoos 2, 82266 Inning am Ammersee, Germany
- Country of manufacture: Turkey
- Item number: 365191
Different types of cradles
There are many types of cradles, each with its own advantages depending on space, needs and lifestyle.
1. Classic cradles
The traditional wooden cradle with curved legs provides a calm, natural rocking motion. It is simple, durable and fits well into most homes. However, this type requires manual movement.
2. Automatic cradle
Automatic cradles use a motor to create a smooth and rhythmic motion. They can often be adjusted in speed and duration, making it easier to soothe the baby without constant manual effort.
3. Bedside cradles
Bedside cradles can be attached directly to the parents' bed, so the baby lies close but still safely in its own sleeping space. This type is popular among parents who want easy access to the baby at night.
4. Hanging cradles
Hanging cradles are suspended from the ceiling or a stand and move gently in several directions. They save space and provide a rocking motion that many babies find soothing. However, they require correct installation to be safe.
5. Multifunctional models
Some modern cradles can be converted into a cot or carry cradle as the baby grows. This makes them a flexible and economical solution for families who want long-term use.
Different brands of cradles
The cradle market offers many manufacturers, each with its own focus and design philosophy.
Leander
Leander is known for its elegant, Scandinavian designs in natural materials. Their cradles combine aesthetics and functionality with a focus on safety and freedom of movement.
Troll Nursery
Troll Nursery produces solid wooden baby furniture with a focus on sustainability and durability. Their cradles are often adjustable and can be used as both cradle and small bed.
Chicco
Chicco offers a wide range of bedside cradles and automatic models focusing on comfort and ease of use. Many of their products can be adjusted in height and angle for optimal adaptation.
BabyBjörn
BabyBjörn is known for its ergonomic and safe baby products. Their cradles have a light and airy design, making it easy to move the cradle around the home.
Sebra
Sebra combines classic craftsmanship with modern design. Their cradles are often made from FSC-certified wood and come in muted colours that fit into Nordic homes.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a baby sleep in a cradle?
Most cradles are intended for use from newborn up to about six months, or until the baby can roll over or sit up unaided. After that, it is recommended to switch to a cot.
Is a cradle necessary?
A cradle is not a must, but many parents find that it helps the baby settle and sleep longer. It can be a good investment in the first few months.
Can you use the cradle as a travel cot?
Some models can be folded and taken on trips, but it depends on the design. Check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the cradle is suitable for transport.
How do you clean a cradle?
Wipe wooden or metal parts with a damp cloth and mild soap. Textile parts such as mattresses and covers should be washed according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure hygiene.
What is the difference between a cradle and a bedside crib?
A cradle stands freely and can be moved, while a bedside crib is attached to the parents' bed. A bedside crib provides easy access to the baby, while a cradle can be moved freely around the home.
