Learn All There is to Know About Baby Bassinets and Cribs

Sleep options for baby

Baby Bassinet

What is a baby bassinet?

An infant bassinet is a small crib for a newborn baby. This is a traditional sleep option, also called Moses bassinet or basket bassinet.

What are baby bassinets used for?

Newborns can sleep in bassinets from birth until 3 to 5 months, depending on the size and model.

Due to their small size the bassinet creates a tighter sleep environment for baby, resembling the womb and making baby feel more contained than a traditional crib.

Do you need a bassinet?

Advantages of baby bassinets

• Baby bassinets can be placed in parents’ bedroom without taking too much space
• Your newborn can be within arm’s reach, by placing the bassinet next to your bed
• Baby bassinets with wheels are ideal to move around the bedroom or house
• Small size means they can fit through doors and tight places
• Some bassinet options include handles to make it easy for parents to lift and transport from A to B
• Lightweight sleep option vs cribs and cradles

Newborn Bassinet Types

Types of bassinets, sizes and materials can be varied and you can choose the one you like / prefer the most, for styling it with your baby’s nursery.

Nonetheless, it is advisable to choose safe, non-toxic bassinet made of a breathable material.

Nearly all modern bassinet brands offer breathable sides made of a mesh material, which reduce any risk of suffocation.

Baby basket bassinet

This is a small circle bassinet, also known as the classic Moses basket bassinet. It can be made of woven maize husk, badger, a soft mesh or some other breathable fabric.

Some models include handles, and thanks to the lightness of materials can be taken around the house with ease making it a portable baby bassinet.

Just be careful if your baby is in the bassinet. Some brands don’t recommend transporting the baby inside the bassinet.

Baby Swing Bassinet

There are different options of these baby bassinets, including the following:

Bassinet with Rocker Base

This simple, yet effective design is a good option for parents wishing to rock their baby to sleep.

The design is similar to the basket bassinet, with the basket end generally not removable and fixed to the stand.

Electric Baby Bassinet

Take a bassinet, combine it with some technology and lullaby music and you will get a rocking baby bassinet.

These kind of bassinets can act as a soother when you most need it. Most models nowadays come with more than 1 speed vibration option.

Bassinet with Wheels

These can be of several materials and shapes. The advantage of having a bassinet with wheels is that you can move it around the house as you need.

Always be careful if you are using a bassinet with wheels in a 2 storied house.

Convertible Bassinet

This is a very versatile type of baby bassinets that have more than one use.

An example would be the Graco Dream Suite Bassinet that converts into a baby changer.

Another example is the Kaylula Sova Classic 5 in 1 Cot, which is a bassinet and then a crib, toddler bed, study desk with chairs and play pen.

You can use a convertible bassinet to optimize space in your nursery or to make a saving in some other baby item you need.

Portable Bassinet

For families out and about a travel bassinet can be the best option. If you are after a baby bed that is easy to take out and about, try to look for the following features:

• Lightweight materials
• Compact size
• Folding bassinet and mattress

Some portable cribs can be an option over portable bassinets, as they are larger in size and can be used for longer.

Portable cribs can also be used as a playpen. Some models come with a portable changer, which can be folded and packed together with the crib.

Baby co sleeper bassinet

By definition, co-sleeping with your baby is when you and your baby sleep on the same surface.

Experts recommend that babies sleep on their own bed to minimize risks of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI).

There are 2 options of co-sleeper bassinets to help make co-sleeping safer, however, they don’t completely prevent SUDI and SIDS – they only minimize risk.

Baby Bassinet that Connects to Bed

The newborn bedside sleeper consists of a separate bassinet that attaches to parents bed.

One of the sides of the bassinet comes down and the bassinet height is adjusted to match the parents’ bed.

In time, when baby grows older and you wish to stop co-sleeping you can simply lift the side and make it a normal bassinet or crib.

Bassinet that Goes on Bed

Baby bassinet for bed consists of a simple design to share your bed with your baby.

This co-sleeper bassinet has strong sides that prevent parents from rolling over their baby.

At the same time, the sides are low enough to allow mom and dad watch their little one while sleeping.

If you are interested in either of these options, it is advisable that you read more about ways to promote safe sleep for your baby.

Baby bassinet extras to consider

Apart from a bassinet, you will also need a baby bassinet mattress. It is a good idea to buy them together to ensure the mattress has the perfect fit for your chosen bassinet.

You will also need some baby bassinet bedding that fits your mattress. A baby mattress protector can go a long way if you have a baby with reflux. Plus, a fitted sheet to go on top.

Baby Cradle

What is a baby cradle?

A baby cradle crib is another sleep option for baby, which is slightly larger in size than a bassinet. However, both baby bassinets and cradles are smaller than full-size baby cribs.

Some cradles include a gentle and soothing rocking motion to help baby relax and fall asleep. For this reason they are also called swinging cribs.

Do you need a baby cradle?

The reason a baby rocking cradle can help baby fall asleep is that the movement resembles the experience in the womb.

Many pregnant women experience baby movements while seating or lying down and these stop while walking, because babies fall asleep.

Generally speaking, a cradle crib is not portable because it sits on a rocking stand. Hence, if you need a sleep option for baby on the go, you may wish to consider a baby travel bassinet instead of a rocking bassinet.

Advantages of swinging cribs

• They take less space than full-size baby cribs and can be place in parents’ bedroom more easily
• Due to the motion from side to side a cradle works as a baby soother
• An electric rocking crib includes an on/ off switch and speed levels
• Some modern cradles come with soothing baby music to put baby to sleep

Full-Size Baby Crib

The variety of baby cribs available for parents can feel overwhelming at times, however, it is good to differentiate between them to better understand what product can be the best for you.

Baby Crib Alternatives

Baby Crib Attached To Bed

As mentioned above in the bassinets section, this design allows for one of the sides of the crib to come down completely so that the crib can be connected to the parents’ bed.

The different with the bedside bassinet is that the crib is considered to be larger in size.

Baby Crib With Storage

This is an intelligent solution to optimize space. It consists of a baby crib with bottom drawer or side drawer.

If you are preparing for your baby’s arrival and getting the nursery ready, a baby crib with drawers can be a good option to consider.

A crib with drawers underneath can be used to store towels, sheets, blankets or different sizes clothes for your child.

This will free up space from baby’s wardrobe closet for everyday clothing, jackets and shoes can have more space.

Cribs with drawers attached are a great option for parents wanting to combine a crib and a changing table in the same piece of furniture. The side drawers allow room for storing baby wipes, creams, nappies for changing time. Plus, there is some more space to store baby’s clothes.

A convertible crib with drawer will in time become a toddler bed, which is a practical feature. Just remove one of the sides and you will have a bed for your young child.

Convertible crib

Convertible cribs are designed to grow with your child.

Depending on the brand and model these baby cribs can have more or less features. Our buyer’s guide on how to choose the best convertible crib, can get you started.

The most common conversion is from a normal crib to a toddler bed by removing one of the sides of the crib. However, there are some models offer the option to start with a small bassinet, then a large bassinet, then a playpen, finally a child’s bed.

If you are shopping around you will find many 2-in-1, 3-in-1 or even 4-in-1 options of several shapes and materials.

In fact, we have put together a list of the best convertible baby cribs on Amazon.com. Check it out, here. 

Luxury baby cribs

Metal baby crib or Iron Crib

When you think of a metal crib don’t think of old fashioned hospital cribs.

Nowadays, metallic baby beds are stylish, modern and elegant. Not to mention, safe, comfortable, easy to clean and lightweight. Hence, an antique iron crib can easily add a classy touch to your nursery.

The white metal baby crib is a classic icon and a huge favourite amongst parents of newborns, for its elegance and sophisticated look.

Wooden crib

Although they tend to be heavier in weight than iron baby cribs, natural wood baby cribs are a strong favourite for many parents.

The variety of designs and shapes available in wood is outstanding. You will find that some of the most luxurious baby cribs are made of wood, as well as the most simple and minimalistic designs.

Note that a natural wood crib does not necessarily need to be heavy and sturdy. There are many wooden baby cradle designs that are modern, light and portable.

Baby Crib with wheels

Most modern baby cribs come with wheels, to easily move the crib around the room.

Luxurious cribs don’t normally include wheels, as the design and shape are prioritised over the mobility.

Besides as they are larger than classic cribs, they are studier and bulkier and not always fit through the door.

Portable crib

Portable baby cribs can be a great option for families on the go, with either one or more than one child.

A portacrib has many advantages over traditional baby cribs:

• Foldable
• Lightweight
• Take small amount of space
• Can be moved around easily when assembled, as many models have at least 2 wheels
• Breathable sides

Even though these kind of cribs are designed for travelling, there are many parents who choose a portable infant sleeper as their baby’s main bed.

The fact is that some families prefer that their baby sleeps always on the same bed, even when on the go. Check out or article on portacots for some options and more information.

Round Baby Cribs

The circle crib is becoming more and more popular among parents looking for a different bed alternative for their baby.

The round design not only can provide an original touch to your nursery, it offers many advantages:

Safety

An oval baby crib reduces the risk of baby getting stuck in bed corners.

In addition, as there are no pointy edges on a round cot this also reduces the changes of hitting a corner.

Once your baby starts moving around you will realize how easy babies can hit corners and edges. Hence, having a round bed means 4-less pointy corners to worry about.

Size

In first place, a round bassinet will take less space than a rectangular one. This makes it a suitable option for a small room.

Position

Apart from that saving space, the round cot bed is more versatile in terms of where it can be placed.

You can easily choose to place the round cot in the centre of the room or towards one or other side.

Whereas with rectangular beds, 99% of the time will be placed next to the wall, to free up space.

Access to Baby

The round baby bassinet will allow you to access baby from any side or angle. This is very practical whenever you need to pick up your baby fast.

It also makes it easier for you to put your baby to sleep, no matter on which arm his head is on.

Designed to convert

Most round cribs for sale convert to something else. If you buy a round convertible crib, you could also be getting a desk, a chair, a playpen or a toddler bed.

Round baby crib and added features…

A round crib can be the stylish touch to your baby’s nursery. Just be mindful of the additional expenses that come with buying a round bed.

You will need round crib bedding sets, a round crib mattress, round crib sheets and possibly blankets for later on.

Sleigh crib

A sleigh crib is named after the actual snow sleigh. Generally a sleigh baby crib will be made in wood and feature gentle curves that will add a classy touch to your nursery.

Due to their design, sleigh style cribs can be more expensive than cribs with a simpler design. Nonetheless, if you choose a convertible sleigh crib, you can use it as a toddler bed later on, to drive some savings.

Tufted baby crib

This style of crib is also antique looking, and it is also called upholstered baby crib.

A tufted crib is ideal for parents wanting to add a luxurious, high-end style to their baby’s room, to make it almost royal looking.

If I imagined how Prince George’s or Princess Charlottes’ nursery would look like, I can’t help but to think there would be some tufted furniture… or at least a tufted bench.

But don’t lose yourself in just the looks of a tufted baby bed. The side with the cushion provides extra protection for head bumps. No baby bumpers required for at least one side, if the crib model allows to turn it outside-in (not the case of the photo).

If you choose a tufted convertible crib, it can then become a toddler bed with a cushioned headboard. Plus, imagine yourself reading a story to your child and resting your back in the comfy headboard.

The only watch out with these beds is cleaning and maintenance of the soft side… which is something I’m sure the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge don’t have to worry about.

However, as we know babies can have all sorts of accidents and some fluids may get in contact with the cushioned side and damage it. Just make sure you learn the best way to clean the surface from the manufacturer.

How to choose a Baby Crib and Bassinet & Characteristics

There is a bit of planning involved at the time of buying your baby’s first bed. To help the thought process getting started, we have listed them down for you:

Safety comes first

Whatever option you go for, always create a safe environment for your baby to sleep.

Your new baby will spend a lot of time in his new bed, hence it is important to make sure you choose a safe option.

If you are in the US, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulates cribs, cots and bassinets comply with safety regulations, which are summarised below:

• Leave any pillows or suffocation hazards out of your baby sleeping surface
• There should be a gap no larger than 2 fingers between the edge of the crib and the mattress
• Follow your manufacturer’s assembly instructions at all times. If unsure, ring them up!
• Do not use any cribs that are older than 10 years old, as broken slats can become a hazard for babies
• Place your crib away from window cords and cables, as they are a hazard for baby’s safety

[thrive_text_block color=”light” headline=”Is your baby Not Sleeping?”] We’ve got you covered. Check out our article on sleep experts for some sound advice to help your baby sleep at night here.

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Where will baby sleep?

Experts recommend having your baby sleeping in your same room during the first year of life to prevent SUDI and SIDS.

It will ultimately be up to the parents to decide where baby will sleep, as there are pros and cons to every arrangement.

Probably a good place to start is to think where baby will sleep as this will help you choose the best sleep option.

Room sharing during the first year of life

If baby is sharing room with you and your partner, there is the option of using any baby bed you like.

However, be mindful of the space you have for a baby bed and what sort of mobility you need.

If you are thinking of having your baby sleeping with you for the first year of life, a full-size crib is a great option.

Although be mindful that they have less mobility than small bassinets with wheels.

Sharing room with baby during the first 5 or 6 months of life

A baby bassinet can be a good option before baby moves to his own room and bigger cot.

Babies can sleep in a bassinet until they are able to sit up and or grab the corners and sides of their bed.

Some baby bassinets have weight limitations so you may need to check with the manufacturer of your chosen model.

For small bedrooms it is more advisable to use a small baby bed rather than a full-size crib.

• Traditional bassinet
• Bassinet that attaches to bed
• Bassinet that goes on bed or co sleeper
• Small Cradle

Once your baby outgrows his first bed, that is when he can sit up and do push ups, he will need to go to a bigger crib, as it is safer.

No sharing room with baby

It is ok not to sleep with your baby in the same room if that doesn’t work out.

Some parents are too alert when they sleep with their baby in the same room and can’t get to rest properly.

In that case you can place your baby outside of your room. Sometimes being a few more meters away from your baby can make a big difference and improve the quality of sleep.

Remember you need to look after yourself and your sleep in order to look after your newborn properly. So do whatever works best for you.

If you decide to place your baby in his own room from the start, that’s ok too. Just make sure you can hear your baby’s cries, even if you are sleeping.

Alternatively, for your peace of mind you can use a baby monitor to keep an eye at your baby if he is not next to you.

Will you need more than one baby bed?

Babies sleep long hours during the day. During the first weeks of life they can sleep approx. 17 hours a day.

Will you need several beds around your home? Or are you ok with just one you can take around using wheels?

If you live in a two storied house, having 2 baby beds can be a good alternative as you will need a safe surface for your baby to rest, no matter where you are.

Sometimes a small bassinet or even a portacot will be enough to ensure a safe sleep for your little one.

Try to avoid placing your baby in any surface from where he can fall, as a bed or sofa.

Will you be moving or travelling with your baby?

If that’s the case, you may wish to wait until you have your new home to pick baby’s final bed.

In the meantime you can use a portacot, if you need to move around baby’s bed quite frequently.

Other considerations for buying a baby bed

Are you planning to rock your baby to sleep?

Are you interested in converting your baby’s crib into a toddler bed?

What material would you rather your baby Crib to be? The most popular baby crib materials are:

• Wood
• Metal or iron
• Hard plastic
• Soft mesh fabric (bassinet)

Crib Mattress

How to choose the best crib mattress for your baby?

Choosing the safest crib mattress for your baby is as important as choosing a safe baby bed.

Buying a second hand crib or bassinet in good conditions can be an option for parents. However, when it comes down to the baby mattress it may be preferable to buy a brand new one.

That is to prevent your baby’s contact with any mould and/ or germs that habit the inside of the mattress. Besides, you don’t know where a second hand mattress has been and who’s looked after it in the past.

Once you have decided on the baby bed you like, make sure that the mattress is a perfect fit to that particular model and brand.

The best baby mattresses come in the following materials:

• Foam crib mattress
• Innerspring crib mattress
• Memory foam crib mattress
• Organic crib mattress

Check out our article on best crib mattresses for some great options for your baby.

Attributes of the best baby crib mattress

• Firm
• Size and weight
• Air flow
• Breathability

Where to find them or where to buy your baby’s bed

You can either find a baby bed that is second hand (bought or inherited from a relative or friend) or buy a brand new one.

Places where you can buy a baby mattress are:

Benefits of buying a second hand baby cot

Benefits of buying a brand new baby crib

Top baby crib brands

Dolce Baby

Pali

Westwood design

Stella

Ti Amo Cribs

Natart

Munire

Sorelle

Romina

Fisher Price

Imagio

Lusso baby

Nest Juvenille

Tulip

Delta Children

Baby Kinightly

Dwell Studio

Silva

Babyletto

Baby Appleseed

Childcraft

DaVinci

Eden Baby

KidKraft

Million Dollar Baby

NaturePedic

Nursery Works

Oeuf be good

Pure Harmony

Spot on Square

StorKraft

Ubabub

Corsican

Ragazzi

Karla Dubois

Sb2

Nursery Smart

Zutano

Simply baby furniture

Thomasville

Broyhills kids

Baby crib sheets and baby crib bedding

Choosing some nice baby sheets can help you give the final touch or even a theme to your nursery.

There is a wide variety of sizes, fabrics and designs for boys’ bedding, from dinosaur baby bedding to nautical crib bedding and many more baby boy nursery bedding options.

For girls there is princess crib bedding, the classic pink nursery bedding and a wide variety of baby crib bedding sets to give more of a girly touch to your baby’s room.

In terms of fabrics, there is a wide variety available but the most popular ones are:

• Cotton
• Organic Cotton
• Polyester
• Flannel

Other accessories for sleep time

It is safe for your baby to sleep swaddled and using a pacifier at night time. Other comforters, toys, pillows, baby blankets or soft toys should be avoided during the first year of life.

On the other hand, if you wish you decorate your baby’s room or bed, look at baby mobiles, night lights, and baby furniture.

How to maintain baby cribs

The maintenance of your baby crib is very important to ensure it resists the test of time.

Not all cots and cribs are created equal and not all of them will require the same care.

Some of the things to look for are:

• Screws and parts: over time some screws can come lose, creating a hazard for your baby’s safety. Make sure you properly read the assembly instructions of your baby cot and that all parts are secured properly
• Crib Paint: paint can come off due to normal wear and tear or maybe your baby is using the rail of the crib as a teether. If you decide to re-paint your baby crib choose a non-toxic, zero VOC paint that is also odor free
• Cleaning your baby’s crib: basic maintenance to your baby’s crib from time to time is important to promote hygiene. Preferably don’t use harsh chemicals but a mix of water, vinegar and lemon or other non-toxic cleaning mix
• Changing baby’s sheets: Even though your child will use nappies and accidents may or may not happen, there are some other fluids to be aware of. Reflux, for example is very common in infants and sheets may need to be changed quite regularly depending on how much reflux your baby has. You will then need to have spare sheets to change your baby’s sheets as necessary
• Using mattress protector: a nice way to preserve your baby’s mattress is to use a crib mattress cover at all times. It may be a good idea to have more than one mattress protector in case you need to wash one of them.

How about other nursery furniture and nursery decor?

After you have chosen your baby’s sleeping place it is time to think about what other things you may need to have handy.

If you want to leave the room quite basic, here are some suggestions:

• Changing Table
• Changing Table Mat
• Baby dresser
• Nursing Chair
• Diaper caddy or diaper organizer
• Nursery decor
• When your baby grows older you can include
• Children’s bookcase
• Toys’ organizer
• Toys’ baskets
• Kids table and chair set
• Kids chalkboards

This is not it! Choose from the articles below for more information about baby sleep, nurseries and sleep options for your baby.