When preparing for a newborn, one essential item many parents consider is a bassinet. To help you find the best bassinet for your baby, we evaluated 21 models, testing 14 of the most popular options side-by-side. Our goal was to assess the key factors that impact a bassinet’s overall performance, including ease of use, breathability, sleeping surface, quality, and eco-health. This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision when selecting a bassinet for your baby.
Why Purchase a Bassinet?
While bassinets are not strictly necessary for every parent, they offer several benefits that can make the early months of babyhood more comfortable for both parents and babies. Many parents find bassinets useful for the following reasons:
Co-sleeping: Many bassinets are designed for bedside use, keeping your baby nearby, which can help with bonding and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Research shows that sleeping in the same room as your baby can lower the risk of SIDS, although the exact reasons for this remain unclear.
Convenience: Having a bassinet nearby allows for easier night-time feedings and soothing without having to get out of bed.
C-Section Recovery: If you’ve had a C-section, having your baby close by in a bassinet can make it easier to tend to your baby while minimizing the physical strain on your body during recovery.
Portability: Some bassinets are designed for easy mobility, making it simple to move them from room to room, so your baby stays within reach.
Types of Bassinets
There are several types of bassinets available, each catering to different needs. Some of these styles overlap, giving parents more flexibility.
1. Co-Sleepers
Co-sleepers are designed for parents who want to sleep next to their baby but are concerned about the risks of bed-sharing. These bassinets attach to the side of the parent’s bed, allowing the baby to sleep next to them safely, while also keeping the baby in a separate sleeping area. This setup allows parents to tend to their baby without leaving the bed, making nighttime feedings and comforting easier.
2. Freestanding Bassinets
Freestanding bassinets are typically larger and designed to stand on their own, away from the bed. While some can be placed next to the bed, parents will need to get up to care for the baby. These bassinets often feature wheels, making them portable and easy to move around the house. They are ideal for parents who prefer a standalone option.
3. Travel Cribs with Bassinets
Many travel cribs come with a bassinet feature or offer an attachment that turns the crib into a bassinet. These models are great for parents who frequently travel, as they provide a familiar and safe sleeping space for the baby. The bassinet attachment typically has a weight limit and is suitable only for babies in the early months.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Bassinet
When selecting the right bassinet for your baby, there are several important factors to consider. These include:
Breathability and Sleep Surface
Safety is the top priority, and breathability plays a significant role in keeping your baby safe while they sleep. Look for bassinets that have mesh sidewalls to ensure proper airflow. Poor ventilation could increase the risk of suffocation if the baby’s face presses against the sidewalls. Many bassinets, like the BabyBjorn Cradle, use breathable mesh for better airflow.
The mattress is another critical feature. ASTM standards recommend that bassinet mattresses be firm and less than one inch thick to reduce the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Never replace the mattress that comes with the bassinet, as it is designed to meet safety standards.
Portability
If you plan to move the bassinet around your home, portability will be an essential factor. Some bassinets have wheels for easy mobility, while others are stationary. Consider whether you need a lightweight bassinet for easy transport or if you plan to leave it in one spot. If you are traveling, a lightweight bassinet or one that can be folded up for easy storage will be the most convenient option.
Size and Weight
Bassinets vary greatly in size and weight. If space is limited in your home, you may want to choose a more compact option. Consider whether the bassinet will fit through doorways, hallways, and stairs if you need to move it. Larger, heavier bassinets may be more cumbersome to transport but could offer more stability.
Supportive Mattress
The mattress in a bassinet should be firm and fit snugly inside the bed frame. A poorly fitted mattress could create gaps or be too soft, posing a safety risk. Some bassinets use MDF boards under the mattress, which can emit formaldehyde if they do not meet low-emission standards. If you’re concerned about this, look for products certified for low formaldehyde emissions (CARB Phase 2).
How to Choose the Right Bassinet for Your Family: A Buying Guide
With so many options available, choosing the best bassinet for your needs can be overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you narrow down your choices:
Step 1: Determine How You Plan to Use It
The way you intend to use the bassinet should be your first consideration. Do you want to co-sleep with your baby, or do you prefer a standalone bassinet? If you plan to co-sleep, a co-sleeper will work best. If portability and ease of movement are more important, look for a travel crib or freestanding bassinet.
Step 2: Do You Need to Move It Around?
If you need to move the bassinet from room to room, choose a model with wheels or one that is lightweight and easy to carry. If you plan to keep the bassinet in one place, this factor may not be as important.
Step 3: Consider Your Budget
Bassinets come in a wide range of prices, from affordable models starting around $50 to high-end options priced at over $400. Set a budget and choose a bassinet that fits within it while still meeting your needs. Keep in mind that bassinets can be an investment, especially if you plan to use them for multiple children.
Conclusion
Selecting the right bassinet for your baby involves balancing safety, comfort, and convenience. Whether you choose a co-sleeper, freestanding bassinet, or travel crib, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, how often you plan to move the bassinet, and your budget. By keeping these factors in mind and carefully reviewing the available options, you’ll find the perfect bassinet to suit your needs and ensure your baby sleeps safely and comfortably.