History of the baby crib

It is said that the first baby bassinets appeared for the first time in the 15th century, to keep infants safely contained while they slept. They gained more popularity during the 17th century in the homes of wealthy or aristocratic families from Europe. At that time, baby cradles were considered a sign of status and were often made of wood, nicely decorated with carved designs, paint, and other embellishments.

18th Century

In the 18th century, baby cribs were primarily found in private homes, in Europe, still in the homes of wealthier families in countries like England, France, and Germany. As homes became larger and richer, dedicated nursery spaces were created to house the baby’s crib and other necessary furnishings. As European settlers colonized North America, baby cribs also started appearing in the American colonies.

Baby cribs were primarily made of wood and had basic, functional designs. They were often simple rectangular or square structures with high sides to prevent the baby from falling out. These early cribs provided a safe and secure sleeping space for infants.

19th Century

During the 19th century, as industrialization increased, the use of baby cribs spread further globally as European influence expanded. Cots were used not just in Europe and North America, but also in parts of Asia, Africa, and South America that were under colonial rule or had close ties to European powers.

They also began appearing in institutions like orphanages, hospitals, and even some early day-care facilities to provide a safe sleep environment for infants outside the home.

By the end of the 19th century, metal cots became more popular because of hygienic reasons  and their designs became more ornate and decorative, incorporating more adjustable features, such as rocking mechanism and the ability to raise or lower the mattress. This allowed the crib to adapt as the child grew.

20th Century

In the 20th century, baby crib designs continued to evolve with an increased focus on safety.

Features like drop-side rails, sturdier construction, and non-toxic finishes were introduced to protect infants. Convertible cribs that could transition into toddler beds also became popular. Modern cribs often incorporate advanced functions like adjustable mattress heights, stationary sides, and built-in storage.

In the 20th century, as mass production and global trade increased, baby cribs became more widely available around the world and affordable for the average household. Cribs were increasingly found in private homes, as well as in hospitals, day-cares, and other child-care settings across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and beyond.

21st Century

Modern cribs are manufactured and sold worldwide to meet the needs of new parents and childcare providers globally.

Today, baby cribs remain essential in most private homes with newborns and infants and are utilised in almost every region and country globally, though the specific styles, materials, and cultural influences can still vary by geographical location.

Nowadays, baby cots have become a must in most environments where infants and toddlers require a secure sleeping space like hospitals, birthing centres, day-cares, preschools, and other children’s facilities.

Today’s baby crib’s main purpose remains the same: to provide a comfortable & secure sleeping environment for the little ones.

Other benefits of the baby crib

However, there are some additional benefits for using cots for babies such as:

better sleep quality (longer and more connected sleep),
convenience & better sleep for parents (if given the chance for self-settling),
space management (baby’s organised space) and
sustainability (used until 3 years of age).

If you need more help with your baby sleeping in a cot, book a free Discovery Call so we can chat.