For the first 4 to 6 months of life most babies will sleep in a bassinet or cradle rather than a crib. Bassinets and cradles often provide babies with a more secure and cozy environment to sleep in. Many parents enjoy them because they allow their newborn baby to sleep near them at night safely.
Cradles are a great option because they rock back and forth, providing your baby with a fluid, calming motion to help your newborn fall asleep. Bassinet's are stationary, but typically provide your newborn baby with a warm, close and safe environment to sleep in.
Some parents have a preference for one over the other. Most bassinet's and cradles are fairly basic, but some do come with advanced features to entertain or calm your newborn baby. Below you will find some tips for purchasing the best bassinet or cradle for your newborn baby.
Things To Consider When Buying A Bassinet and Cradle
So what should you look for when buying one of these nursery items? Here are some guidelines for selecting a bassinet or cradle:
Determine ahead of time whether you would prefer a device that rocks your baby to sleep. Only cradles rock back and forth, though there are some bassinets that vibrate, which some babies find comforting.
Check to make sure that your bassinet or cradle is sturdily constructed from strong material.
Make sure the base of the cradle or bassinet is wide enough to provide your newborn baby with ample support.
If you opt for a folding model, make sure the locks and latches secure tightly.
Only purchase a cradle or bassinet if the mattress fits snugly in the base of the furniture. You should never be able to fit more than two fingers between the side of the cradle or bassinet and your baby's mattress. A gap wider than this can result in accidental suffocation.
Make sure that the edges of the cradle or bassinet are smooth to your baby doesn't hurt his delicate skin
If your cradle rocks, find out what type of batteries you'll need or
whether you'll need to wind a manual switch. This may influence your purchase decision.
Helpful Safety Hints
There are certain safety considerations you simply can't ignore when purchasing a bassinet or cradle. Here are some hints to make sure you purchase the device that is best for you and your newborn baby:
Check the manufacturers weight limits, and be sure you don't place your newborn baby in the bassinet or cradle once they exceed the weight limit. Most hold a baby up to about 15 pounds, or four to six months.
Make sure that you are able to lock the wheels on a bassinet or cradle when the baby is in it.
If you have animals in your home, keep in mind they might tip over the bassinet or cradle. Cats can also climb inside and accidentally sit on your newborn baby. You should never leave your newborn baby unattended or in a location where he or she might be easily tipped over. If necessary shut the door to keep animals out and use a monitor so you can here your infant.
Never use any type of soft bedding in a cradle or bassinet, even if it comes with a decorative one. Any type of bedding can pose a suffocation hazard for newborn infants.
Make sure your bassinet or cradle isn't missing any parts. In most cases it is best to buy a new rather than used bassinet or cradle. Missing parts could pose a safety hazard for your baby.
Lastly, keep in mind that most bassinets and cradles will come with a product registration card. Be sure you fill this out. That way if the manufacturer recalls the product at any point in time, they will be to get in touch with you.
Most of all, have a little fun when shopping for a bassinet or cradle, but don't feel obligated to spend a fortune. Remember that your newborn baby will often outgrow this handy piece of furniture in just a few short months!
