Bassinets have been a lifesaver for most parents. They are smaller, lighter, and more portable than a crib, which makes them an excellent choice for newborns. But as with all things related to parenting, you need to keep your baby’s safety in mind. Bassinets are ideal for the first few months of your baby’s life, but when do you need to transition to a bigger sleeping arrangement? In this blog, Swapmamas will guide you through when to stop using a bassinet and safely transition your baby to a crib.
How long can my baby sleep in a bassinet?
The answer to this question depends on your baby’s age, weight, development and sleeping habits. Most bassinets should not be used beyond the recommended age or weight limit, but many parents make the switch to a crib between 3-6 months. It is ultimately up to you as a parent to decide when it’s time to stop using a bassinet, keeping your baby’s safety and comfort in mind.
Is bassinet safe for rolling baby?
No. A bassinet is not safe for a baby who can roll over, push up on their hands and knees, or otherwise move around while they are sleeping. Once your baby has become mobile, it is important to transition them to a crib in order to keep them safe.
Read more: Stroller Bassinet vs Car Seat – Which is Better For Newborns?
When to stop using bassinet?
Expert advice on when to switch up Baby’s sleeping space
Age and Weight Limit
Most bassinets come with an age and weight recommendation. Halo Bassinest, for example, suggests that parents should stop using the product when the baby reaches 20 pounds and can pull up, roll over, or push up on their hands and knees. Other bassinets may have different age and weight limits, but it’s important to abide by them as they are tested and certified for safety.
Baby’s Developmental Stage
Your baby’s motor skills and development also play a significant role in deciding when to stop using a bassinet. If your baby can roll over or push up onto their hands and knees, the risk of falling or getting trapped increases, making the bassinet unsafe for them. You should also consider their height and how much space they have in the bassinet. If they are getting too big for the bassinet, it’s time to switch.
Read more: Mini Crib vs Bassinet: Which One is Right for Your Baby?
Sleeping Habits
Your baby’s sleeping habits are another factor to consider when deciding when to stop using a bassinet. If your baby is no longer sleeping well in the bassinet and is waking up frequently or not settling, it might be time to make the switch to a crib. Also, if your baby is a light sleeper, a crib might give them more space to move around, reducing the chances of waking them up.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Risk Factors
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) decreases after six months of age, which is another reason many parents decide to transition from a bassinet to a crib around this age. The AAP also recommends placing your baby to sleep on their back on a firm, flat surface free of crib bumpers, toys or soft bedding.
Parental Preference
Finally, when to stop using a bassinet is also a matter of parental preference. Some parents opt to transition their baby to a crib after a few months, while others wait longer. A crib is a more permanent solution and may be more comfortable for the baby, but a bassinet is more practical in those first few months when you need to be close to your baby for nighttime feeds or if they are experiencing reflux or other medical conditions.
Conclusion
As a parent, it is essential to consider your child’s safety when deciding when to stop using a bassinet. The age and weight recommendation that comes with the product, your baby’s development and motor skills, sleeping habits, risk factors for SIDS, and your parental preference all play a role in making the decision. While it may be hard to say goodbye to the bassinet, remember that a crib can provide a more comfortable and safer sleeping arrangement for your baby as they continue to thrive and grow.
Last Updated on April 27, 2023 8:43 AM
Darcy Cruwy is the Founder and Chief Swapmamas.com, a website dedicated to helping parents swap out unwanted children’s items. A single mama, Darcy knows firsthand the challenges of parenting and running a business. She started her blog as a way to share her experiences and tips with other parents, and nowadays she takes care of her kid full-time while also juggling her entrepreneurial endeavors.