A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Bassinet

Your Guide to buying the best Bassinets

Overview

A bassinet is a great solution for many parents looking for a secure and comfortable way to keep their newborn close during the night. There are dozens of bassinet styles available, from traditional wooden models to modern portable designs. This buying guide will provide an overview of the different types of bassinets, as well as important factors to consider when choosing the right one for you and your baby. We’ll also discuss safety features and how to maintain your bassinet properly.

Key features

  1. Safety - One of the most important considerations when purchasing a Bassinet is ensuring it is safe for your baby. Look for a Bassinet with a JPMA certification, which will indicate it meets all safety standards.
  2. Size & Weight Limit - Make sure to choose a Bassinet that is the right size for your baby. Check the size and weight limit of the Bassinet to make sure it will fit your baby.
  3. Portability - Some Bassinets are designed for stationary use, while others have a frame that folds up to make them easier to transport. Consider your lifestyle and decide if you need a Bassinet that is easy to move.
  4. Durability - You want a Bassinet that is made from durable materials and will last. Look for Bassinets made from sturdy materials such as wood, metal or plastic, and check reviews to make sure it is well-made.
  5. Style & Design - Bassinets come in a range of styles and designs, from traditional to modern. Consider the design and style of the Bassinet and make sure it fits in with the other furniture in the nursery.
  6. Price - Bassinets range in price from budget-friendly models to more expensive versions. Consider your budget and decide how much you are willing to spend on a Bassinet.
  7. Additional Features - Some Bassinets come with additional features such as toy bars, rocking mechanisms or vibration settings. Decide if you need any of these features and choose a Bassinet accordingly.

See the most popular Bassinets on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Safety: Bassinets provide a safe and secure sleeping environment for newborns, as they are designed for infants and feature lower sides and breathable mesh walls to prevent accidental roll-overs.
  • Portability: Bassinets are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for parents who travel, and those who need the flexibility to move the bassinet from room to room.
  • Versatility: Bassinets are designed to grow with your child, providing a comfortable sleeping environment for newborns up to about 6 months of age.
  • Affordability: Bassinets are a budget-friendly option for new parents, making them an ideal choice for those who are on a tight budget.

Cons

  • Weight/Size Limitations - Most bassinets are designed for babies up to 15 lbs, 20 inches in length, or for the first three months of life, whichever comes first. This means that your baby may outgrow the bassinet before they are 4 months old.
  • Safety Concerns - Most bassinet manufacturers emphasize the importance of adhering to their safety guidelines, such as proper assembly, use of mattress, and following weight limits. If these guidelines are not followed, there is the potential for the bassinet to collapse or for a baby to become trapped in the bassinet.
  • Portability - Some bassinets are difficult to move around, as they are large and bulky. If you are looking for a more portable bassinet, you may want to invest in one with wheels, a foldable design, or a lighter frame.
  • Cost - Bassinets can be more expensive than other baby furniture, such as cribs or playpens. You should consider how much you are willing to spend before making a decision.

Best alternatives

  1. Cradles - Similar to a Bassinet, a Cradle will provide a safe and soft bed for your baby. Cradles are usually made of wood, and typically have a rocking feature to help lull your baby to sleep.
  2. Playards - Playards are a larger alternative to a Bassinet, with multiple levels and a variety of activities to keep your baby entertained. Playards usually have a bassinet feature, but the mattress is not as thick, so they may not be as comfortable for your baby.
  3. Kids Beds - Kids beds provide a larger sleeping area than a Bassinet, and are available in a variety of styles and colors to match your home décor. They often come with side rails for added safety, but are not as portable as a Bassinet.
  4. Pack 'n Plays - Pack 'n Plays are a convenient option for parents who are looking for a portable sleeping option for their baby. They have a bassinet feature, and can easily be folded up for travel.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Mattress - A firm, flat, waterproof mattress designed to fit the bassinet safely.
  • Sheet - A soft sheet designed to fit the bassinet mattress and provide comfort.
  • Bumper Pads - Padding that is wrapped around the inside of the bassinet to provide a soft surface and keep limbs from getting stuck in the rails.
  • Mobile - A decorative item that hangs over the baby's bed with moving or light-up features.
  • Mosquito Net - A mesh netting that attaches around the bassinet to protect against mosquitos and other bugs.
  • Cover - A removable cover for the bassinet that can be washed as needed.
  • Liner - A washable liner to protect the bassinet from drool and spills.

Common questions

  1. What safety features should I look for in a Bassinet? Look for a sturdy bassinet with a mattress that meets the current safety standards and is firm and flat. Make sure the bassinet has solid sides, a secure locking system, and adjustable side rails. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the bassinet is designed for your baby's age and size.
  2. How long can a baby safely sleep in a bassinet? Babies should sleep in a bassinet until they are 15 pounds or can pull themselves up to a standing position, whichever comes first.
  3. Is a Bassinet necessary? While a bassinet is not a necessity, it can be a convenient and comfortable place for your baby to sleep for the first few months of their life.
  4. What type of mattress should I choose for my Bassinet? Choose a mattress that is designed specifically for the bassinet and is firm and flat. Make sure the mattress meets the current safety standards for the size of your bassinet.
  5. What is the best way to keep my Bassinet clean? To keep your bassinet and mattress clean, use a gentle detergent and warm water. Make sure to dry everything thoroughly before putting it back in the bassinet.

Trivia

A funny fact about bassinets is that a baby can fit into a bassinet much earlier than expected - some bassinets are made for babies as young as newborns, even though most parents assume that their baby needs to be several months old before they can move out of the crib. This is because bassinets are generally designed to be smaller, with the idea that a baby won’t outgrow it as quickly. Despite this, bassinets are surprisingly spacious and comfortable and can be a great place for a baby to sleep in the first few months of life. If you’re looking for a bassinet for your little one, make sure that it meets the appropriate safety standards and is the right size for your baby. Sources: https://www.verywellfamily.com/bassinets-2750250 https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/bassinet/the-benefits-of-a-bassinet/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.