How To Lower A Chicco Bassinet? Easy Step-by-step Guide

After the birth of a baby, many parents and caregivers opt to use a bassinet as the primary sleeping arrangement for the infant. When compared to a crib, a bassinet is much more compact, making it an ideal choice for small apartments. The current crop of bassinets on the market are more functional than ever, which is great news for babies and their families.

You should prioritize the safety of your baby’s sleep, but you should also think about your lifestyle and whether or not the bassinet can be used for other purposes. When reviewing products, we took into account their design, ease of assembly, materials used, value, and any restrictions based on age, height, or weight. Aside from that, some bassinets have supplementary features, like vibration and rocking, that can help soothe your baby, but keep in mind that this may increase the price.

Here are the top-rated bassinets on the market to ensure a restful night for you and your infant.

What Is A Bassinet?

Oval in outline, with mesh or cloth sides, and a lightweight frame, these bags are made for portability. Babies from birth up to the age of about four months sleep best in a bassinet.

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

C-section mothers, for example, may find it difficult to reach over the rail of the crib to lay down or pick up their infant, making a bassinet a more practical alternative.

There is a wide range of bassinets to choose from. The evolution of bassinets has resulted in some nifty extras, such as: There are plenty of options, and many of them have ruffled details, hoods, and hidden compartments.

• Lights
• Sounds
• Rocking

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. A bassinet is no longer a secure place for a baby to sleep once he or she reaches 20 pounds or can roll over on their own.

Bassinet Pros

• Your newborn should adjust to a smaller sleeping area (like your bed) rather than a large crib.
• You can easily transport your infant from one room to another.
• Lighter than a baby’s crib
• Suitable for a shared bedroom
• Ideal for cramped quarters
• It’s cheaper than buying a crib.
• A more comfortable place to put your infant to sleep

Bassinet Cons

• There is a possibility of tipping due to the combination of the object’s small size and high center of gravity.
• Few months of use at most.

Steps on How to lower a Chicco bassinet

The first thing to do is to lay the bassinet flat.

Step Two: Turn the handles so that the attachment points are at the top. Be sure to turn it the right amount so that it rests completely flush with the top of your mattress.

If necessary, repeat steps one through three for the other side. Once this is done, pull up gently on the handle at an angle from below to unlock it, and push down on the button at the bottom of each handle to lock it.

Third, when the infant is laying inside the carrier, push in toward yourself with even pressure until there are no spaces between the side armbars and the infant’s body.

Use these to bind their feet or bottom instead of tying a noose around their neck. In the fourth step, you’ll tighten the two straps on either side of your infant’s head. You can make them snugger by pulling on the straps individually and then fastening the buckle in front of the wearer, close to where their waste will go.

How do I install my infant car seat properly?

Most systems require two bases, one of which stays in the car while the other is permanently installed in your house if you intend to use it while away. When installing an infant car seat into the base, take care not to overtighten the straps, as this can compromise the buckle’s ability to keep the seat secure.

Once it clicks, the carrier is properly positioned in the belt path. You can refer to the manufacturer-provided diagram for help locating the buckles and belts, as well as for guidance on how to install them properly. The carrier should be attached to the base by aligning the arrows/notches on the back of the carrier with the appropriate belt path on the base. Be sure the car seat is properly installed and that the straps are not too loose, but do not overtighten them, either, as this could cause the buckle to break and cause an accident.

Note:

Verify the correct height of the infant headrest by consulting the user manual or label located on the side of the infant car seat before installing it.

To ensure the correct installation of a rear-facing child restraint, the shoulder strap must be positioned so that it loops back under itself when inserted into the buckle. This is accomplished by turning the outstretched arm of the parent closest to the wall and extending it across the chest and under the other armpit.

Don’t forget to use the harness adjuster so the headrest can be moved up when the baby gets bigger. Try to get the best quality you can for the amount of money you have available if a more expensive model is out of the question. Baby safety and comfort should be your top priorities when selecting an infant car seat, so it’s important to think carefully about all of your options before making a purchase. Keep in mind that most companies provide lifetime warranties; feel free to check if you have any questions.

How To Clean a Bassinet & Its Accessories?

Lastly, put it back together. There are 5 simple steps to cleaning a bassinet. The first step is to examine the “Do Not Do” list, the second is to disassemble a bassinet, the third is to acquire the appropriate cleaning agent, and the fourth is to clean the bassinet.

Let’s dive into each of these in greater depth now.

1.) Check the Do & Don’t List:-

Every bassinet So, the bassinet maker must distribute an instruction manual. is the result of a novel methodological approach and a departure from conventional construction techniques.

You could do more harm than good if you ignore these warnings and try to clean the Baby Bassinet. Consider the bassinet’s ease of assembly and disassembly, as well as the type of fabric and other materials used in its construction.

You can find a FAQ guide below. You can get the product-specific bassinet manual in pdf format by clicking here.

Please refer to the manufacturer’s website, google, or the official site if you have misplaced the manual.

Google the product’s name plus “manual” or “manuals” or “pdf” to find the PDF manual.

2.) Take Apart a Bassinet

There are many varieties of baby bassinets on the market. The following components are typical and can be cleaned using only a dry cloth.

1. The frame of a bassinet is typically made of aluminum and can be taken apart completely, though this will depend on the specific model.
2. The mattress and sheet set for a bassinet can be removed for washing.
3. Not all bassinets come with a mobile device, though. However, if you already have, you should remove it from its attachment if at all possible.
4. Bassinets with mesh sides are just as easy to clean as those with cotton sides, which are used by some manufacturers.
5. Not all bassinets have canopies, but those that do are easily detached from the rest of the bassinet.

This doesn’t need to be taken apart to be cleaned. Wheels, the lower body frame, and so on do not need to be taken apart. It’s simple to disassemble, but requires patience to reassemble correctly.

3.) Things You Need To Clean The Bassinet

I trust that you recognize the significance of the preceding two actions. Now is the time to gather the supplies you’ll need to clean the bassinet. Remember that not everyone will benefit from using every type of cleaning product listed below.

Some of them are probably already sitting on your pantry shelves.

The best course of action is to select the item that best meets your requirements. You can use something else if you don’t have a bassinet cleaning cloth, which I’ve just pointed out.

1. Laundry Detergent for Babies
2. Spray bottle, sponge, and scrub brush all empty
3. Use distilled white vinegar and lemon essential oils.
4. Sanitizing spray or antibacterial soap

Step 4: Time to Clean a Bassinet

You can machine wash the baby bassinet’s bedding, canopy, mesh, cover, and skirt, but you’ll need to hand wash the bassinet’s stand, frame, wheels, storage basket, and anything else attached to it.

All right, let’s go through and wipe them down individually.

a.) How To Clean Metal, Plastic & Wooden Fram Bassinet:-

Combine the two liquids in a spray bottle and let them sit for two to three minutes. Properly disinfecting the Bassinet Frame & Stand calls for a solution of one cup of white vinegar and one cup of water.

The bassinet will be cleaned, disinfected, and the corrosion and stain will be removed with this mixture.

As soon as it’s done, spray it on the bassinet frame and wipe it down with a towel, paper, or even a sponge from a can.

Keep in mind that Vinegar can leave an odor, so if you want to get rid of the sour taste, you should add a few drops of lemon essential oil.

To add comfort, some manufacturers of plastic bassinets include plastic cushions on the side. The cushions can be cleaned with a solution of warm water and antibacterial soap.

I thought a scrub brush would be useful for cleaning its surface.

But if you have a wooden bassinet, what will you do with it? As a result of its unique composition, the above cleaning solution should not be used on it, as doing so may ruin its quality and leave a stain.

To clean a bassinet with a wooden frame, first wipe down the entire thing with a dry cloth to get rid of the dust, and then use any wood cleaner.

b.) How To Clean a Bassinet’s Sheet, Mattress & Mesh Cover:-

Bassinet Sheets, Mattress, and Mesh were tested for machine washability in step 1.

Mattresses and sheets for bassinets made of polyester are machine-washable, in my experience.

Simply take it off and wash it as normal.

Baby Laundry Detergent should be used exclusively because other chemical detergents can irritate a baby’s skin.

This necessitates regular cleaning. Remember that the mattress and sheet are the most active parts of the bassinet, and thus are the most susceptible to contamination from germs, bacteria, viruses, etc.

If you want your baby to sleep soundly and comfortably in a clean, safe environment at all times, it’s a good idea to stock up on extra bassinet mattresses and sheets.

The Canopy of the Bassinet needs to be washed now.

Canopy is another detachable component of a bassinet, though some bassinets don’t have this feature.

Therefore, a manual method is required for cleaning such a bassinet. However, if your canopy is detachable, you can simply throw it in the washing machine or even dry clean it to keep it looking like new.

The canopy fabric you’re considering is likely just Mesh or cloth, both of which will eventually fade.

Step 5: How to Dry & Re-Assemble the Bassinet:-

It’s time to dry and reassemble the bassinet now that you’ve cleaned it.

In the end, it’s up to you to decide how to dry the bassinet. You can dry it in the sun or use an electric clothes dryer inside the house.

However, if you’re drying a wooden bassinet, I suggest using The Dryer because the sun dulls the finish.

The final and most important step in cleaning a bassinet is putting it back together.

You are endangering your child even if it is meticulously cleaned but improperly assembled.

Be sure that you put it together correctly. Many babies are killed each year when their bassinets collapse.

Before placing your baby in it, give it a little extra pressure to make sure it won’t collapse.

So, that’s the five-step process for cleaning the bassinet; ask any questions you have and share your thoughts on my advice and suggestions below.

The 7 Best Bassinets of 2022

Best Overall: HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series

Pros

• Strong, stable, four-legged foundation
• Turns a full circle
• Easy access for nursing mothers

Cons

• Heavy
• Difficult to move
• Bulky

The HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series is our favorite pick because this baby bassinet has many features both baby and parents and caregivers will love. The bassinet bed rotates 360 degrees so you can easily access your baby without disturbing them. This bassinet offers a soft spot for your baby to sleep and also a nightlight and floor light, a sound machine with volume control, and two vibration levels to help with soothing.

One downside to note is that this bassinet doesn’t have wheels, which can make sliding out of bed quietly kind of tricky. There are two storage pockets for any necessities, and a fitted sheet is included. It’s safe for a baby to sleep in immediately after birth and has a weight limit of 20 pounds.

Product Weight: 30 pounds | Product Dimensions: 36 x 45 x 45 inches | Weight Limit: 20 pounds

Best Budget: Dream On Me Karley Bassinet

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to move
• Adjustable double canopy keeps bugs away
• Compact folding allows for easy storage in small spaces

Cons

• Height is not adjustable
• Mattress cover sold separately
• Zipper on canopy may get stuck easily

The bassinet has a 25-pound weight capacity, a durable metal frame, and a plush sleeping mattress that will keep baby cozy and safe. Available in several color options, this bassinet is lightweight, has a fold-down design, and has a double sleeping canopy with mesh panels so that parents can still check on their infant while also giving baby a little extra shade and protection while they sleep.

Product Weight: 12.4 pounds | Product Dimensions: 33 x 19.5 x 37 inches | Weight Limit: 25 pounds

Best Splurge: Happiest Baby SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Bassinet

Pros

• Convenient smartphone/tablet app for tracking and remote parental controls
• Responsive technology automatically adjusts to soothe your baby
• Sleek, mid-century modern design

Cons

• Speed on bassinet only controlled on app
• Height is not adjustable
• App may have trouble connecting at times

This bassinet senses when your little one is making newborn sounds, like grunting or just simply crying. If you’re looking for the top-of-the-line innovation for your bassinet (in an attractive mid-century modern design), you can’t beat the SNOO. The bassinet will then gently swing and rock the baby while also playing white noise for even more soothing.

The SNOO features convenient parent controls that can remotely adjust its motion, sound, and cry sensitivity via an app on their tablet or smartphone. The app also tracks baby’s sleep progress and will alert parents if their baby needs more attention. All of these smart features contribute to the high price, but notably, SNOO also offers a rental program to make it more accessible and affordable for parents.

Product Weight: 38 pounds | Product Dimensions: 30 x 16 x 32 inches | Weight Limit: 25 pounds

Best Compact: Fisher-Price Soothing View Bassinet

Pros

• Folds super slim
• Lightweight frame
• Can be rocked or locked in place

Cons

• No storage pocket
• Must be manually rocked
• No music or sounds

The Soothing View Bassinet is collapsible, folding down to a slim width of just four inches. When it’s not collapsed, it doesn’t take up much space either. For a bassinet that’s compact, this pick from Fisher-Price can’t be beat.

With the simple switch of a button, the bassinet can be gently pushed to help soothe baby. When rocking mode isn’t being used, you can switch the bassinet to stationary mode.

Product Weight: 13 pounds |  Product Dimensions: 22.44 x 33.07 x 24.41 inches |  Weight Limit: 20 pounds

Best for Soothing: 4moms mamaRoo Sleep Bassinet

Pros

• Height is adjustable
• Smartphone app remotely controls motion and sounds
• There is no tool-based assembly required.

Cons

• Costly
• Heavy
• Sometimes the app has trouble connecting.

A timer function, operable from the parent’s smartphone, aids in the establishment of a regular bedtime routine for the infant. The bassinet sways and rocks at five different speeds, and there’s a lullaby machine built in, too. The 4moms mamaRoo is crafted to not only provide a secure sleeping environment for your baby up to the weight of 25 pounds, but also to calm and comfort them for improved rest.

The maximum allowed 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+
• Bug cover integrated.
• Breathability is ensured by the perforated mattress and the ventilated base.

Cons

• The bassinet frame is not included.
• It is compatible with only UPPAbaby strollers.
• Pricey bassinet support structure

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 to increase ventilation. 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). 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).

Product Dimensions: 30.25 x 16.6 x 24.75 inches Weight Capacity: 25 lbs.

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

Pros

• Created with portability in mind, this item is simple to pack and store.
• Easily transportable thanks to the wheels at the bottom
• Visual stimulation toy bar that can be removed

Cons

• It’s not possible to alter the height
• Confusing to put together for some
• lacks a handle for easy transport

Baby can get some additional visual stimulation from the detachable toy bar. This design is suitable for use from birth up until the baby reaches 15 pounds thanks to the included bassinet insert. The Pack ‘ Play by Graco is a well-liked portable playard because of how simple it is to erect, dismantle, and transport.

This item weighs 22.9 ounces, has dimensions of 40 by 28.5 by 29 inches, and can hold up to 15 pounds.

What to Look for in a Baby Bassinet

Size

Think about the space you have available, both before and after the baby arrives, when making your purchase. Get precise dimensions to avoid buying a bassinet that won’t fit and then having to send it back. The size of the bassinet is something to consider, even though many bassinets are considerably smaller than a regular crib.

The Graco Pack ‘n Play On the Go Playard (available on Amazon) is one example of a portable bassinet that can be folded up and taken anywhere. The bassinet shouldn’t be placed too close to the bed in case the sheets or blankets fly off during the night. Even though it is not ideal, if you are short on storage space, you can simply place the Pack & Play or another bassinet wherever it is needed for naps and nighttime and then store it away.

Added Features

The stroller comes with a canopy, play yard, car seat adapters, and speakers. Modern designs and extra features have made the bassinet useful for more than just putting babies to bed. You should think carefully about whether or not you need these extra features before making a purchase, as they are not required but can be very helpful when traveling or putting baby to sleep at home.

On the other hand, it can be used at home for restful snoozes. If you and your family enjoy spending time outdoors, you’ll appreciate the bug shield and sunshade included with this bassinet. The UPPAbaby Stroller Bassinet (view on Amazon) is a good example; it can be attached to a stroller, a bassinet stand, and it even has a sunshade and a bug shield.

Purpose

Although it may seem obvious that a bassinet is designed for a baby to sleep in, many parents and caregivers don’t realize that thinking about the bassinet’s intended use will help them make the most of their investment. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against bedsharing, so parents may want to consider a bassinet that can be taken with them on the go, rocks like a rocking chair, or can be used to simulate co-sleeping in a safer way. 2

When baby is napping, make sure the sides are raised. One side of the bassinet can be unzipped for easy access during diaper changes, feedings, or playtime on bassinets designed to keep you close to your little one. There are also bassinets that rock or vibrate to help soothe a baby to sleep.

Think about bassinets that can fold up easily for transport if your family enjoys taking trips. So, while you should prioritize safe sleeping, you should also think about your lifestyle and whether or not the bassinet can be used for other purposes.

FAQs

How long can my baby sleep in a bassinet?

You should remember that many bassinets have weight and age limits. A baby’s age, weight, and developmental milestones all play a role in determining how long they can stay in a bassinet unattended. If your child has reached a certain weight or age and developmental milestones, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe use of the product to avoid injury.

The best course of action is to carefully read the instructions that came with your bassinet. Some babies start rolling over soon after birth, which is when the recommended use of bassinets ends.

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

Yes, in a nutshell. You are not required to use a bassinet. For some parents and caregivers, the extra features are as important as the portability and compact size. However, a crib can be used for infants from the moment they are born. It is important to consider your way of life and the needs of your loved ones when making a decision. A bassinet is an excellent alternative to a crib if you lack the necessary floor space for the latter.

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

Keep a close eye on them; the manufacturer’s recommended age for moving them from the bassinet to the crib may turn out to be too late. Your baby may start rolling over or sitting up before they reach the weight or age recommendations for your bassinet.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Staff and freelance writer Ashley Ziegler specializes in lifestyle, home, parenting, and business topics for a number of publications. In addition to spending a significant amount of time each week looking for the best products for herself online, Ashley also devotes considerable time to researching, comparing, and writing about products aimed at children and families. She is a mother to a daughter aged 1 and a daughter aged 4, as well as an aunt to three nieces and two nephews aged 5-11.