We’re at fault here at Motherhood HQ for providing well-researched lists of the best bassinets in the market without providing a basis for how we ranked and ultimately picked the bassinets. So, we’re going to right our wrongs and provide a comprehensive guide on how to pick the best bassinet for your newborn baby.
A bassinet is a small bed on legs, often used for newborns. They are shorter and smaller than a crib, which makes them more convenient for parents who want to keep their baby close by during the early months.
Before you get your baby home after delivery, it is important to have already set up a safe sleep environment and that prep work usually starts with a decision which you’ll have to make on whether to get a crib or a bassinet. The question of which is better, a bassinet or a crib, does not have a straightforward answer as each has its own set of pros and cons.
But before that…
Where should the baby be sleeping?
American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) recommends that “infants sleep in the same room as their parents — but not in the same bed — for at least the first six months of life, and possibly up to one year.”
The AAP further recommends room sharing as it has been shown to possibly lower the risk of SIDS by up to 50 percent. Also, room sharing will make it simpler to feed, comfort, and observe your infant.
Advantages of Bassinets over a crib:
Lightweight:
They are small and lightweight, making them easy to move around the house. This is especially convenient for new parents who want to keep their babies close by during the early months. A typical bassinet weighs between 25 and 30 pounds while cribs can weigh between 50 and 75 pounds.
Smaller footprint – Take up less space:
Bassinets are shorter and smaller than a crib, making them ideal for small spaces. If you live in a small apartment or have a limited amount of space in your nursery, a bassinet can be a great option.
Safer:
Bassinets typically have higher sides which can give parents some peace of mind knowing that their baby is less likely to roll out. Models that have wider baseboards are even more stable.
Additional features:
They often come with additional features such as storage baskets, rocking motions, and built-in music players which can be beneficial for both baby and parent. Some are foldable models and can act as portable travel beds. In accordance with CPSC safety standards for bassinets and cribs, JPMA reminds consumers to ensure that safety locks are included on models that fold up for storage.
Takes less space:
Bassinets are smaller in size than a crib, making them a good choice for parents who have limited space in their homes. An average bassinet is about 30-35 inches long, 15-20 inches wide, and 25-35 inches tall and a crib is about 60-70 inches long, 30-35 inches wide, and 50-60 inches tall.
If you live in a smaller home or have a smaller bedroom, you may not have enough room for a full-size crib. A bassinet can be a great solution as it will take up less space in your home compared to a full-size crib or even portable crib models that are available.
Ideal for newborns:
Bassinets are lower to the ground which makes them easier for parents to lift their baby in and out. They also often come with padded sides which can make them more comfortable for newborns.
Shallower and therefore easier to lay baby:
Compared to cribs and play yards, bassinets are shallower and therefore it’s easier to lay your baby in and out of them. Tal of Mommyhood 101 noted that this feature is especially important if you are a mom who has had a C-section as any leaning or bending would be very uncomfortable until the surgical stitching heals.
Cozier:
The smaller footprint and higher sides of a bassinet can make your baby feel more snug and secure which can lead to longer stretches of sleep. Parents can appreciate that any gear that can get their infants to sleep more soundly is a win in their book! Not that cribs are not cozy, but the bassinet definitely has an edge in this department.
Nighttime feeding and Co-sleeping is easier with a bassinet:
If you are planning on bed-sharing or cosleeping with your baby, a bassinet that attaches to your bed can make nighttime feedings and comfort much easier. The Arm’s Reach Concepts Original Bedside Bassinet is one example of this type of bassinet which has a small footprint and wheels that you can swivel to move it around as needed. This makes nighttime feeding easier as you can just roll the bassinet next to your bed rather than getting up and down multiple times.
Disadvantages of Bassinets over a crib:
Short-lived use:
Your baby will likely outgrow a bassinet much sooner than a crib. Most bassinets are only meant for use during the first few months (4-6 months) whereas a crib can be used for years. This means that you will have to invest in a new piece of gear sooner if you choose a bassinet over a crib.
More expensive:
Bassinets can be more expensive than some other types of infant sleep products on the market such as play yards with bassinets or portable mini-cribs. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, a bassinet may not be the best choice.
Less space for babies to move around:
Since bassinets are smaller in size, they don’t provide as much space for your baby to move around and stretch out. This can be a problem for active babies who need more room to wiggle.
Some parents feel that their baby outgrows a bassinet too quickly, while others find the smaller size and added features to be worth the investment. There is no right or wrong answer, it really comes down to personal preference. If you are unsure of which route to go, we suggest checking out some bassinets in person at your local baby store or borrowing one from a friend to see if it’s a good fit for your family before making a purchase.
The 5 Types of Bassinets to Choose From
Co-sleepers:
Co-sleepers are a sort of bassinet that attaches directly to your bed structure and is intended to provide a secure sleeping environment for your baby near you. This may be handy for nighttime feedings and consoling.
Pros:
- To reduce the risk that AAP describes as “the possibility of suffocation, strangulation, and entrapment”, AAP recommends that “infants sleep in the parents’ room, close to the parents’ bed, but on a separate surface designed for infants.” Co-sleepers provide this safe space for baby by reducing the above risks.
- For easier access to your baby, some co-sleepers have drop-down sides or adjustable heights that allow you to raise or lower the side closest to your bed. This may be helpful if you are breastfeeding and want to avoid getting up multiple times during the night.
- Less strenuous for those who have had a C-section: Getting in and out of bed can be difficult and painful for mothers who have had a C-section. Having your baby in a co-sleeper next to your bed means you won’t have to get up as often, which can help you heal more quickly.
- Co-sleepers can promote bonding and attachment: When you are close to your baby, you have more opportunities for skin-to-skin contact which has been shown to promote bonding and attachment. A 2014 Study found that co-sleeping “may enhance the feeling of intimacy within the parent-infant relationship as well as promote the infant’s secure attachment to the caregiver.”
- Co-sleeping can help your baby sleep better and for longer stretches: Studies have found that babies who sleep close to their parents “sleep more soundly, for longer periods of time, and wake less frequently throughout the night” When you are close to your baby, you can quickly soothe them back to sleep if they stir or cry in the night.
Disadvantages:
- The AAP does not recommend bed-sharing because of the risks associated with it. They state, “bed-sharing is especially risky for infants younger than 4 months, premature infants, and low birth weight infants. Bed-sharing is also risky for infants born to mothers who smoke, drink alcohol, use illegal drugs, or are extremely tired.” If you do choose to bed-share, it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to reduce them as much as possible.
- Some co-sleepers are not as easy to move around as traditional bassinets: If you want the option to move your baby’s sleeping area from your bedroom to the living room or somewhere else in your house, make sure the co-sleeper you choose is easily portable.
- You will need a larger bed: Co-sleepers take up more space than a traditional bassinet as some overlap with the bed and you will need a larger bed to accommodate them. This may not be ideal if you have a small bedroom or live in a studio apartment.
- It negatively impacts your sleep quality: For fear of waking up your baby, you may not be able to move around or change positions as much while you sleep, which can negatively impact your sleep quality.
- Self-soothing development may be delayed: If your baby is always soothed back to sleep by you, they may not learn how to self-soothe and may have difficulty sleeping on their own later on.
What to look for in a co-sleeper:
The best co-sleepers have excellent breathability ratings with their ventilated or mesh walls and non-padded sides that are safe for your baby. Those that take significantly less space and are portable are a plus. Go for the ones with a simple design and straightforward installation process.
When choosing a co-sleeper, make sure it meets the following safety criteria:
- The co-sleeper should have high, solid sides that prevent your baby from rolling out or getting stuck between the bars.
- The sleeping surface should be firm and free of pillows, blankets, and toys.
- The co-sleeper should be the right size for your baby and bed. It should not be too small or too large.
- The co-sleeper should be placed next to your bed so you can easily reach your baby.
- The co-sleeper should have a safe, sturdy design with no gaps or sharp edges.
- The co-sleeper should be made from breathable materials such as mesh or cotton.
- The bottom of the co-sleeper should be at least four inches off the ground to prevent suffocation.
- Make sure the co-sleeper you choose meets all of these safety criteria before using it.
Some of the most popular and highly rated co-sleepers are the Arm’s Reach Mini Convertible, the Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer, and the First Years Close And Secure Sleeper.
Travel Bassinets:
If you are looking for a bassinet that is portable and easy to travel with, a travel bassinet is a good option. Travel bassinets are smaller and lighter than traditional bassinets, making them easy to pack up and take with you on trips.
Most travel bassinets come with a carrying case or bag, and some even have wheels for easy transport.
Advantages:
- Travel bassinets are easy to take with you on trips.
- They are smaller and lighter than traditional bassinets, making them easy to pack up and transport.
- Most travel bassinets come with a carrying case or bag.
- Some travel bassinets have wheels for easy transport.
Disadvantages:
- Travel bassinets are not as spacious as traditional bassinets, so your baby may outgrow them sooner.
- They may not be as sturdy or well-constructed as traditional bassinets.
What to look for in a travel bassinet:
The best travel bassinet should be lightweight and surpasses the set safety ratings for safe sleep gear. It should be easy to set up and break down, and come with a travel bag for easy transport. The bassinet should also have good ventilation and be made from breathable materials.
Some of the best travel bassinets on the market are the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and the Lotus Travel Crib.
When choosing a travel bassinet, make sure it is:
- Lightweight
- Easy to set up and break down
- Comes with a travel bag
- Has good ventilation
- Made from breathable materials
- Meets or exceeds safety standards
Traditional bedside bassinets:
The most common type of bassinet, these models are typically lower to the ground and sit next to your bed. They are usually freestanding and have wheels so you can easily move them around as needed. Some even attach directly to your bed frame which can be convenient for nighttime feedings.
They are ideal for small apartments or bedrooms where space is limited.
Pros:
-Easy to move around
-Can attach directly to your bed frame
-Cozy for baby
Cons:
-Short-lived use
-More expensive than some other options
What to look for in a traditional bedside bassinet:
-A sturdy frame: Look for a bassinet with a sturdy frame that is made from high-quality materials. You want something that will last and not wobble or tip over easily.
-Easy to move around: Choose a model with wheels so you can easily move it from your bedroom to the living room or anywhere else in your home.
-Attachment options: If you want the ability to attach the bassinet directly to your bed frame, make sure the model you choose has this feature.
Moses Basket:
Moses baskets are a type of bassinet that is often used for newborns. They are smaller and lighter than traditional bassinets, making them easy to carry from room to room. Moses baskets often come with a stand, so you can place the basket at eye level.
Unlike bassinets, Moses baskets are not meant for sleeping in overnight, as they are not as sturdy or well-ventilated. They are also placed on the floor and do not have frames. A few models have rocking stands but Moses baskets typically do not rock or sway.
Advantages:
- Moses baskets are smaller and lighter than traditional bassinets, making them easy to carry from room to room.
- They often come with a stand, so you can place the basket at eye level.
Disadvantages:
- Moses baskets are not meant for sleeping in overnight, as they are not as sturdy or well-ventilated.
- They are not standardized and getting replacement parts is really difficult. Safety concerns regarding semi-rigid hand-held baskets/cradles not being able to support a baby’s head have also been raised and in 2013, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission put forward the first mandatory safety standard for Moses baskets. Some models are now CPSC-approved.
What to Look For When Buying a Moses Basket:
The best Moses basket should have a sturdy, well-ventilated bottom and sides. The basket should also be able to support the baby’s head and neck. Avoid baskets with thick padding as this can increase the risk of SIDS. Make sure it is also CPSC-approved and is made by a brand with no history of recalling its bassinets or cribs.
Moses basket most ideal for:
- Newborns who need to be moved around the house often
Tips for using a Moses Basket:
When you purchase a Moses Basket, it comes with a fitted sheet. You may want to purchase an additional 2-3 fitted sheets and have them on hand. This way, when one is being washed, you will always have a clean one available.
You can also line the Moses Basket with a receiving blanket for extra warmth and comfort.
Do not put anything else in the Moses Basket with your baby, such as pillows, stuffed animals, or blankets. These can increase the risk of SIDS.
Rocking cradles:
Rocking bassinets/cradles are a type of bassinet that rocks or sways back and forth, similar to a rocking chair. They are often larger and heavier than traditional bassinets, making them difficult to move from room to room. These are the only types of bassinets that have incorporated technology with some models having overhead mobiles, soothing music, and vibration.
Advantages:
- The rocking motion can help soothe and calm a baby.
- Some models have a built-in incline that is helpful for colicky babies
- The suspension system and vibration modes are some of the features that make these types of bassinets great at getting the baby to sleep fast. They are also helpful when the baby is teething and has tummy aches.
Disadvantages:
- The rocking motion can be too stimulating for some babies and may make it difficult for them to fall asleep.
- Rocking bassinets are often larger and heavier than traditional bassinets, making them difficult to move from room to room.
- It is difficult to transition a baby from a rocking bassinet to a crib when he/she outgrows it as opposed to other types of bassinets.
- Require power hook-up or batteries
- Takes a lot of space
What to Look for When Buying a Rocking Bassinet:
When purchasing a rocking bassinet, make sure it has a smooth and gentle rocking motion. Avoid bassinets that have a jerky or abrupt rocking motion as this can be too stimulating for your baby. Also, look for a bassinet with a suspension system that will reduce the amount of movement transferred to the baby.
Since cradles use rechargeable batteries that need to be replaced occasionally, it is important that you understand the battery life and how long it will take to recharge. Some models also have an AC adapter that you can use if the batteries are running low.
Also, because these models take a lot of space, they often need to be placed further away from the bed, which can make middle-of-the-night feedings more difficult.
Rocking bassinets are ideal for:
- Babies who need help falling asleep
- Families who have limited space in their bedroom
Tips for using a rocking bassinet:
- Do not use the rocking function while your baby is sleeping in the bassinet.
- Use caution when rocking the bassinet and make sure not to rock it too vigorously as this can be too stimulating for your baby.
- Do not leave your baby unattended in the bassinet.
- Be careful not to put the bassinet too close to the edge of the bed or another piece of furniture as this can be a tipping hazard.
Choosing the Best Bassinet Without Breaking the Bank
If you have at least $50, you will get yourself a bassinet today. Maybe not the fanciest model but a decent one that may only have one feature or two. The advantage of buying a bassinet at this price point is that you are not overspending on something your baby will only use for 3-4 months.
In the $100 range, you will have a lot more options to consider. You will find many different types, shapes, and sizes of bassinets in this price range. If you want a travel bassinet, this is the price point you will need to be in.
For $200+, you are really starting to get into the luxury models. These often have more features like music, vibration, and even remote control operation. They also tend to be larger and more sturdy than the less expensive models. If you have the budget for it, a bassinet in this price range can be a great investment.
What you should not compromise for money:
- Safety: Get JPMA-certified and CPSC-approved bassinets that meet all the safety standards. Also, check if the model you’re going for meets the ASTM standards for bassinets and cradles which were revised this year. If you are looking for used bassinets, make sure they come with all the safety features. Check out the reviews of bassinets certified by JPMA
- Comfort: A comfortable mattress is a must as your baby will be spending a lot of time in the bassinet. Look for a firm and breathable mattress that will provide adequate support.
- Size: Make sure the bassinet is the right size for your baby. It should be big enough for your baby to sleep comfortably but not too big that it takes up a lot of space in your room.
If you want budget-friendly options that meet the three criteria mentioned above, go for simple stationary models and portable sleepers which you can get or around $100 to $120.
You’ll be stretching yourself if you go for a rocker on a small budget as top-tier models go for at least $200. Even hand-held badger baskets will got for upwards of $170 to $220. Some of the most sought-after models are the bedside co-sleepers which also happen to be the most expensive options out there. And they’re expensive for the reasons explained above. They come with features such as rocking motion, vibration, and a sound machine that will lull your baby to sleep in no time.
10 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Bassinet:
Now that you know all about bassinets and what to look for in a safe one, it’s time to start shopping! When picking out the perfect bassinet for your baby, there are several factors you should take into account.
Some of the most important factors to consider include:
- -The size of the bassinet
- -The type of bassinet
- -The mattress
- -Your baby’s sleep habits
- -Your own preferences
- -Consider the breathability of the sides
- -Consider the height and whether it’s adjustable
- -Go for models with lockable wheels
- -Consider the stability
- -Stick to your budget
Below, we will go into more detail on each of these factors to help you make the best decision for your family.
Make sure you get the right size:
The size of the bassinet is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for one. You want to make sure you pick a bassinet that is the right size for your baby and for your home.
Bassinets come in a wide range of sizes, from small travel bassinets to full-size bassinets that take up half of your bedroom.
The size you choose will depend on a few factors, including your baby’s size, your home’s layout, and how much space you have in your bedroom.
If you have a small home or apartment, you might want to consider a travel bassinet that can easily be moved from room to room. If you have a larger home, you might want to opt for a full-size bassinet that will give your baby plenty of room to grow.
Get the appropriate model for your baby:
There are 5 main types of bassinets: traditional bassinets, Moses Baskets, rocking cradles, travel bassinets, and co-sleepers. Here are the reasons you need to pick one over the other. Pick a traditional bassinet if you’re looking for a classic style that will last for years.
Moses baskets are perfect for small homes or apartments since they are smaller in size and can easily be moved from room to room. Rocking cradles are a great choice for parents who want their baby to have a soothing rocking motion at night.
Travel bassinets are perfect for families who travel often or have a small home since they can easily be packed up and taken on the go. Co-sleepers are a great choice for parents who want to keep their baby close by at night but still have their own bed.
If your baby is a heavy sleeper, you might want to consider a travel bassinet that can easily be moved from room to room so they can sleep in any environment.
If you have a preemie, you might want to consider a bassinet with an adjustable height so you can keep your baby close to you at night. Preemies also require a firmer mattress to help support their delicate bones.
For colicky babies, you might want to consider a rocking bassinet or cradle to help soothe them at night. Following AAP’s recommendations, inclined bassinets should not be used for infants under four months old as they can increase the risk of SIDS.
Go for a firm, comfortable and toxic-free Mattress:
The mattress is one of the most important parts of the bassinet since it is where your baby will be sleeping. You want to make sure you pick a mattress that is comfortable, firm, and free of toxins. Avoid any mattress made with toxic materials like polyurethane foam or PVC.
Consider your baby’s sleep habits:
When choosing a bassinet, you also want to consider your baby’s sleep habits. If your baby is a light sleeper, you might want to consider a bassinet with white noise or soothing music to help them sleep through the night.
If your baby is a heavy sleeper, you might want to consider a travel bassinet that can easily be moved from room to room so they can sleep in any environment.
Think about your own preferences:
When choosing a bassinet, you also want to consider your own preferences. If you have a small home, you might want to consider a travel bassinet that can easily be moved from room to room.
If you have a larger home, you might want to consider a full-size bassinet that will give your baby plenty of room to grow. If you are a light sleeper, you might want to consider a bassinet with white noise or soothing music to help you sleep through the night.
Choose a breathable bassinet:
When choosing a bassinet, you want to make sure you pick one that is breathable. Look for a bassinet with mesh sides that will allow air to flow through and keep your baby cool at night.
The most breathable bassinets are made with natural materials like wool or cotton. Avoid any bassinet made with synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. The breathability of the materials used as walls for the bassinets is important to avoid the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Consider the height and whether it’s adjustable:
You also want to consider the height of the bassinet. You want to make sure it is at a comfortable height for you to reach so you can easily pick up and put down your baby.
Some bassinets come with adjustable heights so you can customize them to your needs. Others have a set height that cannot be changed. Consider what height would be most comfortable for you before making your final decision. If you’ve had a C-section, those with adjustable height will enable you to lower the bassinet so you don’t have to strain your stitches.
Whether you’re tall or short, an adjustable-height style will give you the most options and allow you to customize the bassinet to your needs.
Go for models with lockable wheels:
Some bassinets come with wheels so you can easily move them from room to room. Wheels can be a plus but can also increase the risk of the bassinet tipping over if not used properly as emphasized by JPMA.
If you choose a bassinet with wheels, make sure they are lockable so you can keep the bassinet in one place. Also, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to make sure you know how to properly use the wheels and locking mechanism.
Think about the weight limit and whether it’s sturdy:
You want to make sure the bassinet you choose can support the weight of your baby. Most bassinets have a weight limit of 15 pounds but some can accommodate up to 30 pounds. If you have a larger baby, you might want to consider a full-size crib instead.
You also want to make sure the bassinet is sturdy. Some bassinets have legs that can be screwed into the base for added stability. Others have side rails that extend down to the floor to help prevent tipping.
Stick to your budget:
Bassinets can range in price from $30 to $300. You want to make sure you find one that fits your budget but also has all the features you want.
Some bassinets come with additional features like music, vibration, and storage baskets. These features can be nice but are not essential. If you are on a tight budget, you can find bassinets without these features that will still provide a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep.
Bassinet Shopping Tips and Guidelines to Follow
Now that you know what to look for in a bassinet, here are some shopping tips to help you make your final decision:
1. Start by making a list of the features you want in a bassinet. This will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect one for your needs.
2. Compare prices and read reviews. You can find bassinets online or at your local baby store. Be sure to compare prices and read reviews before making your final decision.
3. Ask your friends or family for recommendations. If you know someone who has recently had a baby, they might have some great suggestions for you.
4. Talk to your pediatrician. They might have some recommendations for you based on your child’s specific needs.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re not sure what bassinet is right for you, ask a salesperson for their opinion. They can usually give you some great advice and help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Bassinet Safety Certifications to note and Safe sleep guidelines
ASTM standards on Bassinets:
The ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, is a globally recognized leader in the development and delivery of voluntary consensus standards.
There are ASTM standards for just about everything related to bassinets. These standards cover everything from design requirements to test methods to labeling requirements.
Some of the most important ASTM standards for bassinets include:
ASTM F2194-13: Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Bassinets and Cradles
ASTM F2288-13: Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Full-Size Baby Cribs
ASTM F2906-12: Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Infant Swings
It is important to make sure that any bassinet you are considering meets all the ASTM safety standards. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your baby is safe and sound while sleeping in the bassinet.
JPMA Certification of Bassinets:
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) is the leading trade association representing over 250 juvenile products manufacturers who make baby food and equipment, nursery furniture, strollers, car safety seats, cribs, bedding, and more.
Products that are JPMA-certified have been independently tested to meet all applicable safety standards.
When looking for a bassinet, make sure it is JPMA-certified by looking out for the JPMA Certification seal which could be similar to the image below;
This will ensure that the bassinet meets all safety standards and has been independently tested for safety.
CPSC Approval of Bassinets:
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is a federal agency that protects consumers from unreasonable risks of injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products.
All bassinets sold in the US must be CPSC-approved. You can find out if a bassinet is CPSC-approved by looking for the CPSC Approval seal which looks like the image below;
When looking at bassinets, make sure you check for both the CPSC Approval seal and the JPMA Certification seal to ensure that the bassinet meets all safety standards.
Safe sleep guidelines for babies:
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the safest place for your baby to sleep is in a bassinet, crib, or play yard that meets the safety standards set by the CPSC.
When AAP first released its safe baby sleep guidelines in 2016, it stressed that “babies should only be placed to sleep alone, on their back in a crib, bassinet, play yard or bedside sleeper with a firm mattress covered in a snug fitted sheet.” It went further to state, “No other items, including soft toys, pillows, blankets, or other bedding should be placed in the sleep space.”
In June 2022, AAP revised its guidelines urging “parents to make sure the baby sleeps on a flat – not inclined – surface during sleep and strongly discourages bedsharing”
Read their entire publication on ways to reduce SIDs here.
Below are their general guidelines;
-Place your baby on his or her back to sleep to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
-Use a firm mattress
-Remove pillows, blankets, quilts, toys, and other soft items from your baby’s sleep area
-Keep your baby’s sleep area in the same room where you sleep for the first 6 months to 1 year
-Do not put your baby to sleep on an armchair, sofa, water bed, pillow, sheepskin, or any other soft surface,
4 Main Bassinet Accessories:
Stand:
A bassinet stand elevates the bassinet off the ground, making it easier for parents to take their baby in and out of the bassinet. It also makes it easier to keep an eye on babies and reach them if they need you. When picking a model that suits your needs, make sure that its stand is approved by the manufacturer for use with the specific bassinet model. Stand types include;
- x-frame collapsible stand: a collapsible x-frame stand is a good option if you plan to move the bassinet around the house or even travel with it. These stands are lightweight and can be easily transported and assembled.
- 4-leg stand: 4-leg stand is a more sturdy option that can be used with heavier bassinets. These stands are not as easily transported as the x-frame collapsible stand but they offer more stability.
- Rocking stands: Bassinets on a rocking stand can be gently rocked to help soothe and calm the baby. These stands are not as easily transported as the x-frame collapsible stand but they offer more stability.
Tal of Mommyhood 101 noted that x-frame stands may not be sturdy as the four-leg and rocking stands but that four-leg and rocking stands are likely to take up more space than X-frame options.
Storage/organizer:
I have seen really cool models that allow for the attachment of storage bags such as diaper organizers. The extra attachments usually get clipped or hanged to the bed and are an optional feature that you can utilize if you need it. These storage bag attachments of caddies range in sizes from small ones with a max of 2 pockets to bigs ones with several pockets.
A cautionary note about storage attachment:
Just be cautious as some people have noted that the storage bags/caddies may reduce air circulation to the baby or cause the baby to roll into it and become stuck. Make sure that you get caddies that are positioned out of your baby’s reach and only go for models that a are approved for use with particular bassinet style to avoid overfilling
Mobiles:
A mobile is a hanging object with moving elements such as stuffed animals or plush toys, that can be hung above the baby’s bassinet. The mobile will usually start playing soothing music, when the baby moves, kicks or waves her hand at it.
The Kidshealth.org suggests that “mobiles are removed when the baby begins to push up on his or her hands and knees, or by 5 months, whichever comes first.”
It also specified parents should ensure that “there are no mobiles or toys with strings or ribbons longer than 7 inches (18 centimeters) hanging above the crib”
Wedges/incline inserts:
Infant bassinets with “incline” inserts or wedges designed to help babies with congestion and reflux. These wedges usually angle the bassinet at around 30 degrees, which can be helpful in easing your baby’s symptoms. When picking an incline insert or wedge, make sure that it is made of breathable material, such as cotton, and that it is approved by the manufacturer for use with the
specific bassinet model.Following the CPSC’s warning on using inclines inserts for kids, they advised that incline inserts or wedges are very dangerous once the kid can roll over at around the 4the to 5th month.
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Hi there! I am Ashley Davis, a mom of three kids and the editor here at Motherhoodhq.com. I have been a parent since 2011 and have been doing full-time consulting as a baby sleep expert since 2019. When I am not researching or testing the next baby gear hitting the market, you’ll find me teaching my toddlers a trick or two – especially over the last few months with the lockdown. I hope you’ll find my guides and reviews helpful as you make your next purchase decision. If you have any questions, you can reach me at ashley.d@motherhoodhq.com.
