Image: MomJunction Design Team
If you have a newborn at home, we have created a list of the best bassinets for babies to help you choose the right one. Bassinets provide a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep at night or when they need to take short naps during the day. It is recommended that babies do not co-sleep with their parents, and therefore, a bassinet can be a suitable option. Unlike permanent cribs, bassinets are more versatile and portable, making it possible for you to move them from one room to another. Keep scrolling and take a look at some quality bassinets from trusted brands. Choose one that suits your baby’s requirements.
Top Picks
15 Best Baby Bassinets For Good Sleep In 2024
1. Best Compact Bassinet: Dream On Me Karley Bassinet
Trusted by moms, the Dream On Me bassinet strikes a balance between portability and rigidity. The tried-and-tested newborn bassinet can hold a maximum weight of 25lbs (11.3kg), which is quite impressive considering its compact size.
Pros
- A double canopy covers the top of the bassinet. The mesh on the canopy allows ventilation for the baby inside.
- The bassinet has a foldable frame made from lightweight aluminum. The fabric is soft polyester foam, and the materials used are durable and functional.
- The manufacturer ships the bassinet with a one-inch thick mattress pad. There is also a basket at the base of the frame for storing the baby’s toys and accessories.
Cons
- The canopies do not detach and stay integrated into the main bassinet fabric.
- It can be hard to find an alternative mattress that matches the dimensions and design of the bassinet.
2. Best Swiveling Bassinet: HALO Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series Bassinet
This safety-tested bassinet provides an incredible range of motion that lets you find the perfect place for your baby next to the bed. Learn about a tester’s experience with the trusted product in this review video.
Pros
- The bassinet swivels around on the stand, which allows for 360° motion. Moving or turning the bed-side bassinet towards you, without having to get down from the bed, is thus easier.
- A tilt-motion feature allows the parent to tilt the bassinet slightly towards them, to check on the baby.
- The bassinet rests on a height-adjustable stand.
- The base has four legs, which keeps the bassinet stable.
- An electronic module plays three soothing sounds, three lullabies, a back-to-bed reminder with vibration. It has a 30-minute auto shut off feature too.
Cons
- The base adds to the weight, which makes this bassinet less portable than others. The four-legged base even takes floor space. Also, you need to be careful when approaching the bassinet so that you do not accidentally hit the legs.
- The features come at a price, which makes this bassinet a bit expensive.
Point to consider3. Best With Built-In Nightlight: Ronbei Baby Bassinet
Trusted for its proven performance, the Ronbei Baby Bassinet Bedside Sleeper is ideal for drawing your baby close for feeding, comforting, and bonding. This nine-level and adjustable baby-friendly bedside bassinet conveniently attaches to your bedside, making it easy to keep a close eye on your baby during the night.
Pros
- It is made with safe and durable materials, ensuring that your baby is comfortable and secure.
- It easily attaches to the side of the bed for easy access.
- The safety and effective bassinet is easy to assemble and disassemble.
- It’s travel-friendly and can be used in different rooms.
- It features a built-in nightlight.
Cons
- It may not be sufficiently padded for some.
- The bassinet might not be suitable for older babies.
Dream On Me Karley Bassinet Best Compact Bassinet | HALO Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series Bassinet Best Swiveling Bassinet | Ronbei Baby Bassinet Best With Built-In Nightlight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 13,166 | 2,950 | - |
| Price | $65.45 | $289.99 | $149.59 |
4. Best Space-Saving Bassinet: SwaddleMe by Your Bed Sleeper
The SwaddleMe bassinet is quite compact and suitable for small babies. If you have limited space at home, this bedside bassinet could be right for you.
Pros
- The bassinet has a two-position adjustable incline feature. It allows you to place the baby in a reclining position when they are awake.
- The bassinet has two legs, which can be adjusted to bring its height to the parents’ bed level.
- An electronic module vibrates, plays soothing lullabies, and also has a soft nightlight.
Cons
- Some parents report a slight tilt in the bassinet whenever the baby is placed within. There are also observations about the sleeping pad shifting and squeaking each time the baby moves.
"I got this gender-neutral bassinet for its simplicity, easy setup, and adjustable height. However, I wished it was higher. The unzipping side and sturdy build eased my worries, while other features like smooth wheels and an easy-to-remove mattress cover add to its convenience."
"I got this gender-neutral bassinet for its simplicity, easy setup, and adjustable height. However, I wished it was higher. The unzipping side and sturdy build eased my worries, while other features like smooth wheels and an easy-to-remove mattress cover add to its convenience."
5. Best With Storage Basket: Delta Children Rocking Bedside Bassinet
Delta Children’s rocking bassinet offers a cozy, secure spot for your little one to sleep next to you at night. You can also use its rocking motion to soothe a fussy baby in a hands-free manner. Tested for safety and durability, this is a convenient bedside bassinet with a storage pocket to keep essentials nearby.
Pros
- It helps make the baby feel cozy and secure.
- The retractable wheels make it easy to move the bassinet.
- It has built-in songs and a white-noise-producing device.
- The adjustable height feature helps accommodate different bed heights.
- It can be folded flat for easy transportation.
- The bassinet comes with a removable and washable mattress pad.
Cons
- The rocking motion may not be stable at times.
- Some might find it bulky.
6. Best Well-Ventilated Bassinet: MiClassic 2-In-1 Bassinet
It takes a minute to put together the MiClassic 2-In-1 Bassinet. It should be your choice if you love a safe and effective bassinet with a simple design. Check out this product testing video for more information.
Pros
- The bassinet folds flat with one single pull at the center. You can disassemble the legs and carry them separately.
- The mesh wall around the bassinet is designed to allow ample circulation of air for the sleeping baby.
- The manufacturer offers a large bag to carry the bassinet conveniently.
Cons
- Some parents report the mattress pad to be very soft; so much that it folds when the baby lies on it.
- The bassinet can be very flimsy if you do not press down on the middle fold and flatten the base. One has to be careful about it before placing the baby.
7. Best Foldable: Mika Micky Baby Bassinet
Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper allows for seven different height positions and comes with an easy-open side panel for quick access to the baby. The breathable and mom-approved bassinet is suitable for babies from birth to five months of age.
Pros
- It is lightweight and foldable, making it a portable bassinet.
Made of soft fabric. - It has a removable and washable cover.
- The stylish design complements any room decor.
- The product meets ASTM safety standards.
Cons
- It has a limited weight capacity of 30 pounds.
- It might not be very stable.
8. Best Convertible: Yacul Baby Bassinet
Yacul’s convertible bassinet can be used as a bedside sleeper or a standalone bassinet for your baby. This baby-friendly bassinet is designed for babies up to six months, and you can keep it beside your bed for convenient night feedings. The mommy-approved mattress is waterproof, and its cover is removable and machine-washable. The package also comes with a music box and a mobile toy.
Pros
- The bassinet has an easy-to-open zipper on the side, making it easy to soothe the baby.
- The mesh structure ensures ventilation and allows the caregiver to monitor the baby.
- The bassinet can be fixed at nine different heights, ranging from 18.1 inches to 26.3 inches.
- The bassinet is easy to assemble and disassemble as it requires no additional tools.
Cons
- Some parents might find the mattress firm.
- Sounds from the music box may be a little loud.
9. Best Bassinet With Diaper Changer: Graco Dream Suite Bassinet
The Graco Dream Suite Bassinet offers the benefits of two products at the price of one. Tested to be safe and comfortable, it features a bassinet and a diaper changer – both on the same surface thanks to the product’s fantastic design.
Pros
- The compact footprint of the bassinet allows for convenient placement in your bedroom or the baby’s nursery. The bassinet with wheels allows easy movement and placement.
- The bassinet can swivel and turn 360 degrees to reveal a diaper changing station. After you are done changing the diaper, turn over the diaper changing station to return to the bassinet.
- There are two baskets at the base of the bassinet for storing baby’s supplies.
- The manufacturer ships the product with two soft toys that are suspended from the canopy to keep the infant entertained.
Cons
- The bassinet can be a bit difficult to assemble due to inadequate directions and poor instructional diagrams.
- Some parents report that the mattress sags after a few weeks of usage and the frame becomes flimsy. However, this could depend on the item received.
Do remember10. Best Co-Sleeping Bassinet: SwaddleMe By Your Side Sleeper
The side sleeper style bassinet lets you place the baby right in the middle of the bed. It allows the baby to sleep with the parents.
Pros
- Fabric wraps around the metal frame and forms a mesh wall window on the side. This design allows the baby to safely bed share with their parents.
- The mesh on the sides can be pushed down to get a better view of the baby.
- It comes with a washable pad within. The pad folds along with the bassinet to make it easy to carry.
Cons
- The bassinet can eat up the bed space meant for two adults. Therefore, parents will have to adjust accordingly. The product may not be ideal if you have a small bed.
11. Best Bassinet With Lockable Wheels: Arm’s Reach Concepts Cambria Co-Sleeper Bassinet
If you are looking for a bassinet for infants with a large sleeping area and large storage, this is it.
Pros
- The frame of the bassinet is made from wood, which provides rigidity while also giving the bassinet an aesthetic appeal.
- The mesh walls are collapsible, and you’ll have easy access to the infant without having to get out of the bed.
- The lockable wheels of the bassinet make it convenient to move it around.
- A large storage basket with two compartments at the base lets you organize the baby’s essential items.
Cons
- Some parents may find the manufacturer’s instructions inadequate for assembling the product easily.
12. Best Bassinet With Rocking Feature: Dream on Me Lacy Portable 2-in-1 Bassinet
It works as a bassinet and a rocking cradle, making it a two-in-one product. This Dream on Me bassinet also has some other value-for-money features making it a trusted choice among parents.
Pros
- This is a compact bassinet with a canopy at the back and a mesh at its front. The canopy provides shade while the mesh protects against bugs and insects. Both the mesh and canopy can be folded.
- There are four wheels at the base of the bassinet. You can turn the wheel upwards to transform the bassinet into a rocking cradle.
Cons
- Some parents may find it difficult to assemble the product. The instructions in the manual may not be as clear as they should be.
- A few parents noticed a misalignment of parts, but it can be a one-off case.
13. Best Height-Adjustable: Papablic Bonni Baby Bassinet
The Papablic Bonni Bassinet Bedside Sleeper is a convenient option that offers a range of features to suit different needs and preferences.
Pros
- It has an easy-glide height adjustment mechanism to fit your bed.
- The bassinet comes with a removable and washable cover.
- Its breathable mesh fabric offers comfort.
- The product features a five-point harness for safety.
- It can hold weights up to 30 pounds.
- The bassinet comes with a carry bag.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for larger babies.
- The bassinet might not be easy to set up.
14. Best Functional Bassinet: Green Frog Baby Bassinet Cradle
The large stand makes it a functional bassinet while the elliptical base makes it a rocking cradle. This is an excellent product for parents looking for a bassinet and cradle combo.
Pros
- A rectangular mesh window on either side of the bassinet’s wall provides easy visibility.
- The legs of the bassinet are arched, allowing a rocking motion. There are small wheels within the arched base, which makes mobility easy.
- The manufacturer ships the product with a mattress covered in a waterproof sheet. You also get a carry bag that fits the disassembled bassinet.
Cons
- Some parents dislike the quality of the mattress pad and even found it to be a bit thin.
Caution15. Best Electronic Soothing Bassinet: Fisher-Price Soothing Motions Bassinet
It is the best bassinet for soothing the baby. The soothing electronic module does an excellent job of keeping the baby engrossed and relaxed. The Fisher-Price Soothing Motions Bassinet is ideal for parents with cranky babies.
Pros
- The battery-operated soothing module of the bassinet can play 30 minutes of music and sounds along with pacifying vibrations. The unit also has a nightlight and a projector.
- The electronic module securely attaches to the frame of the bassinet. You can remove the unit to use it as a stand-alone soother.
- The bassinet can sway at its place like a rocking cradle. You can lock out the motion when not needed.
Cons
- A few parents found the mesh wall to be rough. Constant rubbing of the baby’s feet against the mesh may cause skin chafing.
What Is A Bassinet?
A bassinet is a small baby bed with light construction and fewer assembly parts. The bed resembles a basket and is closest in shape to a cradle. Bassinets are usually lighter than a cradle and also have a foldable frame. They are easy to carry around and will not occupy as much space as the crib.
How Is A Bassinet Different From A Crib?
The following are the significant differences between a bassinet and crib:
| Crib | Bassinet |
|---|---|
| It has tall guard rails | It has small mesh or fabric walls |
| Wide and large sleeping area | Narrow and small sleeping area |
| Most cribs are not portable | Most bassinets are portable |
| It has a firm base that provides stability | The base is not as rigid as crib’s base |
| You can place a crib-size mattress within | There is space for only a compact mattress |
| It is more comfortable for both baby’s naps and nighttime sleep | It is useful for baby’s naps. It may not be as comfortable as a crib for prolonged sleep |
| It can be used from birth to toddlerhood | It can be used from birth to five months |
Owing to its size and portability-feature, the bassinet is recommended only for children of a certain age.
[ Read : Babyhug Angel Dreams Cradle Reviews ]
What Age Is Safe For Bassinet Usage?
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, bassinets become unsafe around the age of four to five months. At four months, infants can push themselves up on their elbows, and at five months they can use their hands and knees to push their body up and move (1) (2). This new skill that the baby learns at this age increases the risk of toppling over and out of the bassinet.
A four-month-old may also roll on the tummy to back, which increases the risk of the baby rolling over from a bassinet due to its small mesh wall. After that, use the crib for the baby’s naps and nighttime sleeping.
But why invest in a bassinet if it cannot be used for babies over five months? Keep reading, and we’ll tell you why a bassinet could be a good option initially.
[ Read : Babyhug Lily Wooden Cot Review ]
What Are The Advantages Of A Bassinet?
Bassinets are handy in several situations and provide the following benefits:
- First bed for baby: If you do not have a crib prepared for your newborn, then you can consider a bassinet for the baby’s nighttime sleep and naps. A bassinet can be the temporary first bed for the baby before you switch to a crib.
- Saves space: If a crib is a tight squeeze in your room, then you can consider the compact bassinet. A bassinet can fit into the small space beside the bed thus keeping your baby at an arm’s distance away.
- Portable bed: Most bassinets are lightweight, and many of them are foldable. It makes the bassinet a portable baby bed that you can carry while traveling.
- Rest your back: Picking up a baby from a crib requires effort and can affect your lower back, especially if you have just had a C-section. Bassinets save you the hassle thanks to their higher bed surface, which is easy to reach for a parent.
- Affordable: Bassinets cost less than cribs. If you are still budgeting for your baby’s expenses, then you can save money for the first four to five months by getting a bassinet for your baby.
In the next section, we acquaint you with the features you must check to purchase the right bassinet for the baby.
[ Read : Babyhug Love Teddy Bassinet Review ]
How To Choose The Right Bassinet?
It is best to look for the following features when shopping for bassinets:
- Firm bed mattress: The sleeping surface should be firm yet provide adequate cushioning to the baby.
- Fabric or mesh guard walls: A cloth or a mesh wall works as a safety feature to prevent accidental falls. It is also essential to check the height of the wall. It must not be too small or low enough to let the baby roll over and out of the bassinet.
- Weight limit: Check the weight limit for a bassinet so that your baby can sleep in it safely, even when you carry it.
- Non-toxic, water-resistant material: The bassinet should be free of harmful materials like lead, mercury, phthalates, and flame retardants. The bassinet fabric should preferably be water-resistant or waterproof. It makes cleaning easy when the baby makes a mess.
- Portable: A bassinet should be light enough for you to carry it around. Features like foldable legs and collapsible bed structures are preferable.
[ Read : Babyhug Sleep in Cradle ]
Some bassinets have bonus features like electronic rocking motion and extra bedding. You can pick one with such features, depending on your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the safest thing for a newborn to sleep in?
To keep your baby safe, you can arrange for a separate place to sleep and not co-sleep with them. You can make your baby sleep in any firm, flat bassinet or crib that doesn’t contain any items that can suffocate the baby (1).
Nicole Johnson, a pediatric sleep consultant, says, “I would recommend sharing a room with your baby for the first 6-12 months. And when using a bassinet, remember not to add any loose blankets, pillows, or toys in the bassinet to reduce the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation.”
2. Are bassinets good for newborns?
Yes, bassinets can be a good option for newborns as they are soft, lite, meshed, and portable. However, when babies become mobile, they may need to be shifted to a crib as they would need space to move around.
3. Are side sleeper bassinets safe?
Side sleeper bassinets can be a safer option than co-sleeping. The side bassinets can be a way to keep your baby close and have easy access for feeding and soothing them without the fear of suffocating the baby (2).
Why Trust MomJunction?
We bring you a list of some of the best bassinets for babies that are portable and easy to use. These bassinets provide a comfortable and safe space for your little ones to sleep. We have reviewed and added detailed specifications and pros and cons of every product so that you can choose the right one for your child. The article also has benefits and tips that can make your shopping experience smooth.
The Bottom Line
A bassinet is necessary for your little one as it offers them a safe space to sleep. If you are trying to teach your baby to sleep independently or in another room, consider getting them a bassinet. The best bassinets for babies should adequately accommodate the mattress, and the material used for the structure should be skin-friendly. Bassinets with height-adjustable stands can be convenient. Further, some bassinets have useful features such as a vibration mode and a speaker to play lullabies. Our favorite picks from this list are the Halo Swivel Sleeper Premiere Series Bassinet for its 360° swivel motion and tilt feature, the Delta Children Rocking Bedside Bassinet for its rocking motion and retractable wheels, and the Yacul Baby Bassinet for its music box and easy-to-open zipper.
Infographic: Where Should You Not Place A Bassinet?
A bassinet for babies provides a safe and cozy sleeping space for newborns, offering convenience and closeness for both baby and parent during the early months. However, it is important to ensure they are placed properly to prioritize the safety of your little one. Refer to the infographic below to learn the key considerations for positioning a bassinet.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- What Does A Safe Sleep Environment Look Like?
https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/resources/caregivers/environment/look - Ways to Reduce Baby’s Risk
https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/safesleepbasics/risk/reduce - Bassinet and cradle safety guidelines
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2009/09/bassinet-and-cradle-safety-guidelines/index.htm
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