What Do Parents Need To Know About Bassinet

Nothing beats the sight of your newborn sleeping soundly. If you plan on letting your baby sleep in a bassinet for the first few months, you’ll want to make sure it has all the features you need to ensure their comfort and safety.

Help in selecting a bassinet is available from the professionals at Newton Baby. Find out what sets a bassinet apart from a crib, and then get our list of 11 must-haves for a bassinet.

Finally, we’ll run down some basics on crib selection and talk about how to keep your baby safe while they sleep.

What Is A Bassinet?

Babies from birth to around four months of age sleep best in a bassinet. They have the appearance of an oval, are sided by mesh or cloth, and are built for portability.

The bed is elevated to about waist height thanks to the bassinet’s base. The increased height of this structure has been appreciated by many new parents.

You may prefer a bassinet over a crib if, for example, you’ve recently undergone surgery for a condition that prevents you from bending over easily.

There is a wide range of bassinets to choose from. Some even have storage space beneath the mattress and ruffled, hooded designs. The evolution of bassinets has resulted in some nifty extras, such as:

• Lights
• Sounds
• Rocking

A bassinet is no longer a safe sleeping option once your child reaches 20 pounds or can roll over on their own. Your baby’s growth and development will tell you when it’s time to move them out of the bassinet, but it’s usually around four months.

Bassinet Pros

• Your newborn should adjust to a smaller sleeping area (like your bed) rather than a large crib.
• The baby can be moved around the house with relative ease.
• a lot lighter than a baby’s crib
• Easy to accommodate roommates
• Ideal for cramped quarters
• Cheaper than a standard baby crib
• The baby can be put down more easily.

Bassinet Cons

• Potential for tipping due to small size and high center of gravity
• Only used for a short period of time

What’s The Difference Between A Bassinet And A Crib?

If you’ve already decided on a bassinet for your baby, it’s still helpful to understand how it differs from a crib and when it’s time to make the switch.

Moreover, if you haven’t yet made up your mind about where to put your baby to sleep, familiarizing yourself with the distinctions between the two will help you make the right choice.

A bassinet is simply a portable, compact crib for your infant that can be set up just about anywhere, including next to your bed.

Wheels, a hood or canopy, and a small shelf underneath are common features of bassinets. Some bassinets even have built-in technology that can play music.

We’ve established what a bassinet is, so now let’s talk about how it differs from a crib.

Size

The size distinction between the two is significant. A bassinet is a much more compact alternative to a crib. This allows you to have easy access to your baby throughout the night without having to leave the comfort of your bed.

While a bassinet’s compact design is ideal for tight quarters, parents should keep in mind that their infant will soon outgrow the bassinet and require a transition to a crib.

Thus, we reach our next discussion point.

Longevity

A bassinet’s compact design is convenient, but your baby will soon outgrow it. Usually by the time a baby reaches four months old, he or she has outgrown a bassinet.

In fact, “generally your baby should move to a crib around the end of the first month of life or by the time he weighs 10 pounds,” as stated by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

No matter how much your baby weighs, you should transfer them to a crib from a bassinet as soon as they learn to roll over.

A bassinet is fine for the first few months, but a crib can be used from birth all the way through the toddler years. This is why some families opt not to use a bassinet and instead use a crib for their infant.

For the first two or three years of their lives, your child can rest comfortably in a standard-sized crib. When your child is ready to graduate from the crib, the mattress can usually be used on a toddler bed instead.

A convertible crib can be used for several years instead of just one, as it can adapt to your child’s needs as they develop. A brief discussion of such child care facilities is included below.

Portability

The portability of bassinets is another way in which they differ from cribs.

In contrast to cribs, bassinets are designed to be moved around easily. Most bassinets can be wheeled from one room to another, and some can even be collapsed for transport.

Ease Of Use

Bassinets have the advantage over cribs in terms of convenience because of their compact size and reduced depth. This may seem like a trivial benefit, but it can make a world of difference for nursing mothers who are still experiencing pain after a cesarean section.

It’s comforting to have your baby close by while you sleep, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

Having a bassinet in your bedroom means less bending over to put your baby to sleep or pick them up, and less getting up and down during the night.

It’s up to you to decide between a crib and a bassinet, though safe sleep guidelines advise keeping your baby in your room (but not your bed) for at least the first six months.

We’ll give you some advice on what to look for in a bassinet if that’s what you decide to go with. However, a crib is also a viable option if you’re looking for something more permanent. We’ll talk about that possibility after I’ve given you the lowdown on bassinets.

Types Of Bassinets

Like other items for infants, bassinets come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and designs.

You can find conventional, freestanding bassinets that can be placed next to your bed or in a corner. You can get a bassinet that either attaches to the side of your bed or sits on the floor next to it to keep your baby close by while still giving them their own space to sleep.

There are also smart bassinets that can automatically rock, vibrate, and make calming noises, in addition to portable travel bassinets. There are swiveling, folding, and rolling bassinets, as well as those with storage space, canopies, and drop-sides.

The options are practically limitless, as you can see. However, you should prioritize the safety of your baby above all else when selecting a bassinet.

For this reason, we’ll go over the things to think about when deciding which option is best for you.

What To Consider When Buying A Bassinet

Bassinets come in a wide variety of designs to accommodate any taste or requirement. There are some universal precautions you should take no matter what style you’re after.

Consider these guidelines as you shop for a bassinet for your baby.

1) Condition

Don’t discount baby gear just because it’s been used before. The baby’s car seat and bed are two items that should always be brand new.

Turn down the offer of a used bassinet. Instead, go with a brand-new bassinet that hasn’t been used and is compliant with current safety standards.

2) Your Space

There is a wide range of bassinet sizes available. Make sure it will fit in the area you have available by checking the item’s dimensions.

You should also think about the bassinet’s weight if you intend to transport it frequently.

3) Breathability

Babies need to be able to breathe while they sleep for their own safety. This is true not only of bassinet walls, but also of mattresses.

A bassinet with mesh sides or wooden slats (like a crib) will allow the most air circulation.

Even when transitioning from a mini-crib to a regular-sized crib, air circulation around your child is crucial. Choose a mattress that allows air to circulate, such as the one sold by Newton Baby.

Because our Wovenaire® Core is 90% air and 10% food-grade polymer, your child will be able to breathe easily while sleeping on it.

It has also been independently tested and certified as having low chemical emissions, earning it GREENGUARD Gold Certification for meeting or exceeding the most stringent industry emissions safety standards.

The uniqueness of this mattress lies in the fact that it can be cleaned entirely, cover and all. Have any idea how this operates?

To clean the core, simply take it apart and run it under water from a hose or use soap and cool water in the shower. Just wash it and let it air dry to get a clean mattress. The cover can be washed and dried in a washing machine.

4) Mattress Fit

The mattress should not have any major gaps when placed inside the bassinet. For this reason, the bassinet mattress should be used.

The same holds true for mattresses used in cribs. Your child could get an arm or leg stuck in a space that is too big. If the distance is too great, how do you know? There should be no more than a two-finger space between the mattress and the inside of the crib’s frame.

5) Sturdiness

Bassinets may be diminutive, but they must pack a punch. Check the base of your bassinet to make sure it won’t topple over if you happen to bump into it in the wee hours of the morning.

6) Legs

When it comes to the bassinet’s foundation, you should also check the stability of its legs.

Check that the legs lock when the bassinet is set up, and that it is clear when the legs are locked or unlocked, if you have opted for a foldable bassinet.

7) Wheel Safety

What else needs to be secured on a travel bassinet? The axles. Make sure the wheels lock securely, and leave them locked except when you’re actually moving the bassinet.

8) Small, Sharp Parts

Avoid bassinets with loose or removable parts that a baby could choke on. This includes keeping the bed free of any frills, extra fabric, or dangling toys.

Inspect the interior of the bassinet, paying special attention to any nooks and crannies, for any sharp or pointy edges.

9) Cleaning Ease

Babies often make a mess. The health of your baby and your sanity as a parent dictate that you prioritize purchasing items that are simple to clean.

If you can, go with a bassinet that can be taken apart and washed. Choose a crib and mattress for your baby that are both simple and straightforward to clean.

The mattress and cover of the Newton Baby are fully machine washable, as previously mentioned. Ours is the only crib mattress available that can be cleaned thoroughly. We bid you farewell, allergens, mold, and bacteria.

10) Bedding

The safest place for your baby to sleep is on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet—no fluffy blankets allowed! This includes both the crib and the bassinet.

Sheets made from our organic cotton fabric are soft and breathable, making them ideal for use on a baby’s crib mattress. We have you covered with four adorable patterns and sheets in two sizes to complement any nursery design.

The organic cotton muslin is soft and breathable, meeting the requirements of the Global Organic Textile Standards.

11) Sleep Safety

As a parent, one of your main priorities is making sure your child is safe at all times.

Safe sleep guidelines should be followed wherever your baby sleeps. First, we’ll go over the fundamentals.

Choose A Firm Mattress

In most cases, the mattress for a bassinet will already be included in the purchase price. However, if you do end up buying a mattress for your baby, make sure it is both supportive and soft.

Keep in mind that the mattress and any other soft items in the crib should not obstruct your baby’s airway. You should be able to press down on the crib mattress and feel it spring back up.

However, regardless of the type of mattress your baby is using, you should not include any soft, fluffy bedding in his or her sleeping space.

Keep Bumpers And Toys Out Of The Crib

Blankets and baby pillows should not be used because they are too soft and fluffy, which poses a safety risk for infants. However, you should not place anything in the crib that a baby could choke on, including toys and crib bumpers.

What, then, is appropriate for a bassinet or crib? Just you, your sweet little one, a mattress, and a fitted sheet. Swaddles and sleep sacks are great alternatives to blankets if you’re concerned about overheating your infant during the night.

Swaddles are designed to keep newborns warm and secure without the risk of suffocation, while sleep sacks (or wearable blankets) are designed to keep older infants warm and cozy without the risk of suffocation.

To see how to swaddle your baby in one of our organic swaddle blankets, click here.

Don’t Share Your Bed

For the first six months, your baby should sleep with you, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, no infant should ever share a bed with their parents.

Keep them close, but not in bed with you.

Lay Your Baby On Their Back

What position is best for your baby to sleep in? There have been many speculations over the years.

Your baby needs tummy time during the day, but remember to always put them to sleep on their back.

Babies should always be laid on their backs, even after they’ve mastered the art of rolling over. You shouldn’t have to go back in there to turn them over if they roll over in the middle of the night.

Offer A Pacifier

The American Academy of Pediatrics also suggests giving your baby a pacifier before bedtime.

If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, you should wait to give them a pacifier until they have mastered nursing. Then, provide a pacifier before bed and during naps. Pick one that fits you properly and has no straps or other flaws.

Don’t stress if your infant isn’t interested in the pacifier. You shouldn’t try to force anything.

You’ve done your research and now know how to select a bassinet that fits in your home safely. Your baby will outgrow their bassinet in a matter of weeks, so before we wrap up, let’s talk about cribs.

Choosing A Crib

You may be wondering why you need to consider cribs at all when shopping for a bassinet.

Keep in mind that babies should start sleeping in a crib when they reach one month old or 10 pounds in weight, whichever comes first. In a heartbeat, you’ll need one for your newborn! Also, you could add it to your baby registry.

Keeping this in mind, there are essentially four distinct crib designs and sizes available.

Shaped Cribs

A shaped crib can be the focus of your nursery design or serve as a unique accent to your chosen motif. Cribs in the shape of a circle or oval, with mattresses of the same shape, are a popular choice.

Keep in mind that the size of these cribs may be different from the norm. Even though round and oval cribs are more conventional, a beautifully designed rectangular crib can be just as lovely in a baby’s room.

Mini Cribs

The mini crib is your friend if you need something larger than a bassinet but more compact than a full-size crib; its dimensions are 24 inches wide by 38 inches long.

This is a great option if your baby will be sleeping with you in bed or if your kids will be sharing a room. Keep in mind that your child will probably outgrow the mini crib by the time he or she is two years old, at the latest.

Standard Cribs

The standard-sized crib, which is what many parents opt for in the long run, is larger than the mini crib, measuring 28 by 52 inches. This option is great because it can be used for a long time and any standard-sized crib mattress can be used with the bed frame for a toddler.

Convertible Cribs

A convertible crib is a baby bed that can be transformed into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed as the child develops. Convertible cribs can be used in four different ways.

This is a fantastic choice for your baby, and we carry a 3-in-1 model at Newton Baby. Please allow us to elaborate.

To accommodate your growing child, each of our convertible cribs comes with a mattress that can be adjusted to one of three different heights. Converts from a crib to a toddler bed (or day bed) for use before your child is old enough to pull themselves up. Putting in the toddler rail is optional.

We also stock three distinct variations on convertible baby cribs.

They are all made in a reputable Italian woodshop that has been around since 1932, using only sustainable, soft wood in their construction. The high level of Italian craftsmanship ensures that your baby’s crib will be sturdy and well-made.

The GREENGUARD Gold Certified, solid beechwood frame ensures a healthier, safer, and more restful night’s sleep for your baby. These long-lasting cribs are built to exceed American safety standards, as child protection is our top priority.

Our standard size crib mattresses will fit in the Austin, Soho, and Domino cribs and will complement their classic designs, safety features, and durability.

Check out this article for more details on how to get a good night’s rest.

The 7 Best Bassinets of 2022

Best Overall: HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series

Pros

• A solid foundation built on four pillars
• Rotates a full circle
• Friendly to nursing mothers

Cons

• Heavy
• Not easy to maneuver
• Bulky

Our top pick is the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series because it’s a high-quality bassinet with features that appeal to both babies and their caregivers. This bassinet not only provides a comfortable place for your baby to sleep, but also a nightlight, a floor light, a sound machine with adjustable volume, and two vibration settings to help calm your baby. You can get to your baby without waking them up thanks to the 360-degree rotating bassinet.

Two handy pockets provide space for small items, and a fitted sheet rounds out the package. A newborn baby can use it as soon as they are born, and it can hold up to 20 pounds. The lack of wheels on this bassinet can make a quiet exit from bedtime a bit of a challenge.

Weight: 30 pounds | Size: 36 by 45 by 45 inches | Maximum Capacity: 20 pounds

Best Budget: Dream On Me Karley Bassinet

Pros

• Portable because it is lightweight
• The double canopy, which can be adjusted, serves to shield guests from insects.
• Space-saving collapsibility when folded down

Cons

• The height can’t be changed.
• There is no mattress cover included.
• The canopy’s zipper often gets stuck.

This bassinet is lightweight, foldable, and features a double sleeping canopy with mesh panels that allow parents to keep an eye on their baby while also providing some shade and protection. Baby will be secure and comfortable in the bassinet, which features a plush mattress, a sturdy metal frame, and a weight capacity of up to 25 pounds.

It has a maximum load capacity of 25 pounds and measures 33 by 19.5 by 37 inches.

Best Splurge: Happiest Baby SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Bassinet

Pros

• Easy-to-use mobile app for monitoring and setting limits
• Technology that adapts itself to your baby’s needs is always on hand to calm him or her.
• Sleek, minimalist, and very 1950s

Cons

• Only a mobile app can adjust the bassinet’s speed.
• The height can’t be changed.
• Sometimes the app has trouble connecting.

The SNOO is the cutting edge of bassinet technology (and it comes in a sleek mid-century modern design to boot!). This bassinet responds to the sounds a newborn makes, such as grunting or crying. Then, while playing soothing white noise, the bassinet will start swinging and rocking the infant gently.

The SNOO’s motion, sound, and cry sensitivity can all be customized from a parent’s smartphone or tablet. The app monitors baby’s sleep patterns and notifies parents when their child requires assistance. While the high price tag is undoubtedly a result of all these innovative features, it’s worth noting that SNOO also provides a rental option.

There is a weight restriction of 25 pounds on this product, which has dimensions of 30 by 16 by 32 inches.

Best Compact: Fisher-Price Soothing View Bassinet

Pros

• Slim-folding design
• Compact and lightweight
• Possesses a rock-and-lock mechanism

Cons

• There is no stowaway
• Must be rocked by hand.
• No noise or music

This bassinet from Fisher-Price is the best option for a small space. The folded width of the Soothing View Bassinet is only four inches, making it extremely portable. It doesn’t take up much room even when it’s not collapsed.

A gentle push of the bassinet, activated by the touch of a button, can help calm a fussy infant. The bassinet can be placed in a stationary position when the rocking option is not needed.

Total Item Weight: 13 lbs. The 22.44 x 33.07 x 24.41-inch (HWD) dimensions of the product. Weight Restriction: 20 lbs.

Best for Soothing: 4moms mamaRoo Sleep Bassinet

Pros

• The height can be altered.
• An app on a smartphone can trigger actions and play audio.
• Zero-tool assembly required.

Cons

• Costly
• Heavy
• Occasionally, the app may have connection issues.

The 4moms mamaRoo is made to not only provide a secure environment for your baby to sleep in until they weigh 25 pounds, but also to help calm them down for a more restful night’s sleep. The bassinet sways and rocks at five different speeds, and there’s a lullaby machine built in, too. In addition, it has a timer function that parents can use to establish a bedtime routine for their infant and adjust from anywhere using their smartphone.

The maximum weight for this item is 25 pounds, and its dimensions are 24 inches by 34 inches by 39 inches.

Best Stroller-Compatible: UPPAbaby Stroller Bassinet

Pros

• Extendable sunshade with a UPF rating of 50
• Anti-mosquito net built in
• Airflow is ensured by the perforated mattress and the breathable, open frame.

Cons

• The bassinet frame is not included.
• All other strollers are incompatible.
• Pricey bassinet support structure

This portable bassinet is a great option for parents who need something they can use at home and on the go, as it is compatible with the best-selling Uppababy Cruz stroller (and comes bundled with the Uppababy Vista stroller). This bassinet can accommodate infants weighing up to 25 pounds, and it has a sunshade and canopy with a UPF of 50 that can be unzipped for increased ventilation. The Uppababy bassinet can be clicked onto the stroller for naps on the go or placed on a flat, stable surface with the Uppababy Bassinet Stand (sold separately).

The maximum weight for this product is 25 pounds, and its dimensions are 30.25 inches by 16.6 inches by 24.75 inches.

Best Play Yard: Graco Pack ‘n Play On the Go Playard

Pros

• Conveniently folds up and stores away
• The base has wheels, making it mobile.
• Visual stimulation toy bar that can be removed

Cons

• Non-adjustable in height
• Confusing to put together for some
• lacks a handle for easy transport

The Graco Pack ‘ Play is a well-liked portable playpen because it can be quickly and easily assembled, disassembled, and relocated. This design is suitable for use from birth up until the baby reaches 15 pounds thanks to the included bassinet insert. The detachable toy bar offers your baby some additional visual stimulation.

Weight: 22.9 ounces | Size: 40 x 28.5 x 29 inches | Maximum Capacity: 15 lbs.

FAQS

How long can my baby sleep in a bassinet?

There are a number of factors, including your child’s age, weight, and developmental milestones, that will determine how long they can sleep in a bassinet. It is important to remember that many bassinets have weight and age limits. If your child has reached a certain weight or age and has outgrown the manufacturer’s guidelines, he or she is at risk of injury.

To make sure you know how to use your bassinet correctly, read the instructions carefully. Some babies learn to roll over very soon after birth, prompting the recommendation that their parents and caregivers stop using the bassinet.

Can my baby just skip the bassinet and go straight to a crib?

Yes, in a nutshell. You shouldn’t feel obligated to use a bassinet. They save time and space, and the extra features are essential for some caregivers and parents. However, babies can begin using a crib for sleep as soon as they are born. Consider your way of life and the needs of your loved ones when making a decision. A bassinet is a great alternative to a crib if you don’t yet have enough room for the former.

When should my baby go from the bassinet to a crib?

Your baby may start rolling over or sitting up before they reach the weight or age recommendations for your bassinet. Keep a close eye on them; the manufacturer’s recommended transition time from the bassinet to the crib may come sooner than you expect.

Conclusion

It can be difficult to choose the best bassinet from the many that are available. Don’t let it bother you though. If you use our advice, picking out a bassinet for your baby and family will be a breeze.

Then, get your baby’s room set up with a convertible crib, a Newton Baby Crib Mattress, and some soft, organic cotton sheets so you can be ready for whatever comes next. When you put your baby to sleep in a safe bassinet or crib, you can get some much-needed shut-eye yourself. Good night!