Why Most Bedside Cribs Don’t Fit High Beds (And What You Can Do About It)
If you're expecting a baby and have started searching for a bedside crib for a high bed, you've probably discovered a frustrating problem.
Most bedside cribs simply don't go high enough.
You spend hours comparing specifications, reading reviews and checking measurements, only to realise that many popular bedside cribs are designed for beds much lower than your own.
If you have a modern divan bed, ottoman bed, luxury mattress or mattress topper, finding a bedside crib that fits safely can quickly become a challenge.
The good news is that you're not alone, and there are solutions available.
In this guide we'll explain:
- Why many bedside cribs don't fit higher beds
- Why correct height alignment is so important
- The risks of trying to improvise a solution
- How to measure your bed correctly
- What to look for when buying a bedside crib for a high bed
- Which features make life easier during night feeds and newborn care
The Hidden Problem With Most Bedside Cribs
One of the biggest frustrations facing new parents is that bedside crib height is rarely discussed until it's too late.
Many parents assume that all bedside cribs will fit all beds.
Unfortunately, that's not the case.
Most bedside cribs available in the UK are designed for mattress heights in the region of:
- 52 cm to 68 cm
A few models extend slightly higher.
Very few reach above 70cm.
This becomes a problem because modern beds have changed significantly over the last decade.
Today's beds often include:
- Deep pocket sprung mattresses
- Memory foam toppers
- Ottoman storage bases
- Divan bases
- Luxury hybrid mattresses
These features can easily increase mattress height to:
- 70cm
- 75cm
- 80cm or more
As a result, many parents discover that their chosen bedside crib simply doesn't align with their bed.
Why Bedside Crib Height Matters
When choosing a next to me crib or co-sleeper crib, height isn't simply about convenience.
It's also about achieving a safe and practical setup.
A correctly fitted bedside crib should:
✓ Sit level with your mattress
✓ Attach securely to the bed
✓ Leave no dangerous gaps
✓ Allow easy access to your baby
✓ Make night feeds more comfortable
When the height is incorrect, parents often experience frustration every night.
Even a small height difference can make feeding, comforting and checking on your baby more difficult than it needs to be.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
When parents realise their bedside crib doesn't fit, they sometimes look for quick fixes.
Unfortunately, many of these solutions are not recommended.
Examples include:
Using Bed Risers
Some parents attempt to raise their bed.
This can create instability and may affect the safe attachment of the crib.
Using Additional Mattress Toppers
Adding extra height to one side can create uneven sleeping surfaces.
Lowering the Crib Beyond Its Intended Settings
Manufacturers provide specific height ranges for a reason.
Going outside those limits may compromise safety.
Accepting a Poor Fit
Many parents simply tolerate a setup that doesn't feel right.
This can make every night feed less comfortable.
The best solution is always to choose a crib designed to work with your mattress height from the outset.
For safe sleep guidance, see the NHS guidelines
How To Measure Your Bed Correctly
Before purchasing any bedside crib, measure your mattress height.
Some parents mistakenly measure only the bed frame.
What matters is the height of the mattress surface.
Step 1
Place a tape measure on the floor.
Step 2
Measure vertically to the top of the mattress.
Step 3
Include any mattress topper that will remain in place.
Step 4
Record the final measurement.
You can then compare this against the maximum height specification of any bedside crib you are considering.
What To Look For In A Bedside Crib For A High Bed
If your mattress is above average height, there are several important features to consider.
1. A Wide Height Adjustment Range
The greater the adjustment range, the more likely you'll achieve a safe fit.
2. Clear Manufacturer Specifications
Avoid products that provide vague information.
Look for clear published measurements.
3. Secure Attachment System
The crib should attach firmly and securely to your bed.
4. Proven Safety Testing
In the UK, bedside cribs should comply with relevant safety standards such as:
BS EN 1130:2019
5. Long-Term Value
Many bedside cribs are used for only a few months.
Consider whether the product offers additional value after the newborn stage.
Why Parents Search For "Extra Tall Bedside Crib"
Searches for terms such as:
- bedside crib for high bed
- extra tall bedside crib
- highest bedside crib UK
- bedside crib for tall bed
- bedside crib for high mattress
have increased because more families now own higher beds.
Many popular bedside crib models were designed years ago when mattress heights were generally lower.
As bedroom furniture has evolved, many crib designs have not kept pace.
This has left a gap in the market for parents who need greater height flexibility.
High Divan Bed
A Solution Designed Around Real Parents
At Huddle, we didn't start by asking:
"What should a bedside crib look like?"
Instead, we asked:
"What problems are parents struggling to solve?"
One of the most common frustrations was clear.
Parents with higher beds could not find a crib that fitted properly.
That's why the Huddle bedside crib was designed with an adjustment range reaching up to 78cm.
This makes it one of the highest bedside cribs available in the UK.
Benefits include:
- Suitable for many higher beds
- Better compatibility with mattress toppers
- Easier access during night feeds
- Reduced need for compromise
- Greater flexibility for modern bedrooms
More Than Just A Bedside Crib
While height compatibility is one of Huddle's standout features, it's not the only benefit.
The Huddle crib also offers:
- Bedside crib mode
- Standalone crib mode
- Portable bassinet mode
- Child's desk and bench conversion
Unlike many bedside cribs that are used for around six months, Huddle continues to provide value for years.
The desk and bench configuration can be used until approximately 12 years of age.
This helps support sustainability by reducing waste and extending
Link to our blog discussing the benefits of using a bedside crib:
"Do You Really Need A Bedside Crib? Pros, Cons And How To Decid
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Highest Bedside Crib Available In The UK?
Specifications change regularly, but very few bedside cribs reach mattress heights above 70cm. The Huddle bedside crib reaches up to 78cm.
Can A Bedside Crib Be Higher Than The Bed?
No. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding safe setup and mattress alignment.
How High Is Too High For A Bedside Crib?
This depends on the manufacturer's specifications. Always check the published adjustment range before purchasing.
Will A Bedside Crib Fit An Ottoman Bed?
Many will, but always measure your mattress height first and compare it against the crib specifications.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right bedside crib isn't just about colour, style or price.
For many families, bed height is one of the most important factors to consider.
If your mattress is higher than average, measuring your bed before purchasing a crib could save hours of frustration and help ensure a safer, more comfortable setup.
By focusing on real-world compatibility, modern bed heights and long-term value, parents can choose a bedside crib that genuinely makes life easier during those precious first months with their baby.
Ready to learn more about the Huddle 4-in-1 bedside crib?