Image: MomJunction Design Team
Some babies find the rocking movement of the cradle calming. Thus, you should use the best cradle to rock them to sleep and provide a similar effect they experienced when they were in your womb. Cradles are of many types, and choosing the right one for your baby can be tricky. Here’s a list of tried-and-tested cradles to help you lull your baby to sleep. Keep scrolling and take your pick.
[ Read : Babyhug Kelly Wooden Cot Review ]
Safety Tips To Follow While Using A Baby Cradle
Before looking at the various baby cradle models, let’s have a look at a few safety precautions one should follow when using a baby cradle.
- Do not use a cradle way past the recommended age or weight limit.
- Make sure the cradle’s base is secure.
- Do not leave your baby unattended inside the cradle.
- Do not stuff the cradle with quilts and pillows as they can cause suffocation.
- Make sure the cradle mattress fits in perfectly, without leaving any gaps.
, a pediatric sleep consultant, says, “The right cradle can help your newborn sleep through the night at an earlier age than their peers. Bring home one to let your baby sleep in comfort. However, remember not to add any loose blankets, pillows, or toys in the cradle until your baby is over a year old to avoid SIDS and accidental suffocation.”
[ Read : Babyhug Joy Cradle Review ]
Top Picks
11 Best Baby Cradles
1. Best Lightweight:BabyBjorn Cradle
If you are a minimalist and looking for a cradle with a modern design, this baby cradle from BabyBjorn could be the one. The lightweight and compact cradle has a clean and simple design recommended for newborns to babies aged six months. It can hold weights up to 17lb.
The BabyBjorn cradle consists of a washable mesh fabric mounted on sturdy and wide legs. The base also comes with a spring action for gentle rocking movements, offering cozy sleep environment. The inside of the cradle is fitted with a cozy and soft washable sheet made of breathable materials. This product is JPMA-certified and is made of safety-tested materials, making it one of the best baby cradles to consider. This video offers a detailed review of the mommy-and-daddy-approved product.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Breathable mesh fabric
- Wide and stable legs
- Washable cradle mattress
- Additional canopy to block sunlight
- Provides gentle motion to soothe the baby
Cons
- Height may be low for some
- Spring action could be strong for some babies
"With its smooth, gentle rocking motion, I found this to be one of the most comfortable options. Its sleek design adds an elegant charm to my child’s nursery, and the breathable mesh design keeps it from trapping any heat, allowing my little one to stay cool and unbothered."
- Height may be low for some
- Spring action could be strong for some babies
2. Best Non-Toxic:Dream On Me Store Rocking Cradle
This old-fashioned baby wooden cradle could be a vintage-themed addition to the nursery. It is ergonomically designed with spacious interiors to give your baby a comfortable place to sleep. The raised footboards and an arched headspace keep your baby safe. The cradle’s legs are designed to give a smooth rocking motion and have brake stabilizers to stop the rocking motion.
The Dream On Me baby cradle is made of non-toxic wood with smooth corners and edges. It is recommended for newborns to babies weighing up to 20lb for safe sleep. You can choose from the five different colors available. You may check this video review showcasing a tester’s experience to know more about this safety-tested cradle.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Ergonomic design
- Safe materials and a non-toxic finish
- Cradle mattress for comfort
- Raised and arched headboard for safety
- Spacious interiors
- Can be used as a stationary or rocking cradle
Cons
- Quality of the cradle mattress may not be up to the mark
- Base may not be strong enough
"My baby is not fond of cribs, so this is a comfortable alternative for his nap time. I love the beautiful look and finish. It is also quite easy to assemble and lightweight, making it easy to transport from one room to another."
3. Best Portable:Green Frog Baby Bassinet Cradle
This portable baby cradle is lightweight and has a solid frame construction that holds the bassinet covered with soft protective, washable padding. This bedside sleeper also has two mesh windows on either side for proper ventilation, adding to its baby-friendly quotient.
The base comes with wide legs that can gently rock the cradle back and forth, and the small inbuilt wheels on the legs make it easy to move. You can assemble and dismantle this whole set up with ease and put it in the carry-on bag that comes with it for portability. The high-quality bassinet is available in six colors and make an excellent newborn sleep solution.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy assembly
- Quiet operation
- Safe padding over the cradle
- Side mesh windows for ventilation
- Mattress included
- Rocks the baby for soothing sleep
Cons
- Mattress might be too thin for some
- Cradle may be low for some
"I like this bassinet's convenient yet stylish design. It works for stationary usage and is easy to move around. Plus, it is lightweight and easy to assemble. However, the rocking feature and visibility made me stick to this choice."
BabyBjorn Cradle Best Lightweight | Dream On Me Store Rocking Cradle Best Non-Toxic | Green Frog Baby Bassinet Cradle Best Portable | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Polyester | Wood | Cotton |
| Dimensions | 31"L x 23"W x 26"H | 38"L x 22"W x 32.5"H | 35"L x 25"W x 5"H |
| Color | White | Storm Gray | Black. |
| Frame Material | Metal Frame,Plastic,Steel | - | Aluminum Frame |
| Weight | - | 17.5 pound. | 16.57 pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 340 | 437 | 83 |
| Price | $349.99 | $126.86 | $219.99 |
4. Best Spacious: Dream On Me Lacy Portable 2-in-1 Bassinet And Cradle
Lay your hands on this spacious two-in-one bassinet that offers safe sleep space for the little one, and easily converts into a rocking cradle when you rotate its hooded caster wheels upward. It has a lightweight aluminum frame and is made of soft polyester foam fabric to ace the test of comfort and durability.
The expert-approved bassinet features a storage basket that allows you to keep your baby’s essentials handy and a full-length canopy, which is a blend of mesh and fabric, to protect your baby from bugs and insects.
Pros
- Lockable wheels
- Non-toxic and easy to clean
- Holds up to 25 pounds of weight
- Includes a one-inch thick regulatory mattress pad
- Available in eight different colors and patterns
- JPMA-certified
Cons
- May not come with a bassinet sheet
- May not be easy to assemble
"It is a practical choice for its two-in-one design and baby-friendly soft fabric. Its easy mobility also makes it a decent purchase. Had it been accompanied by clearer instructions, assembling it would have been a breeze."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 717 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
Points to remember5. Best With Removable Wheels:DaVinci Archie Portable Bassinet
The DaVinci portable bassinet is a stylish addition to any nursery. Made of New Zealand pinewood and TSCA-compliant engineered wood, it is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. This portable bassinet will quickly become mom-and-dad-approved as it has removable wheels that allow you to easily roll it wherever you go. An additional shelf provides extra storage for baby essentials like toys, diapers, and baby powder.
This bedside sleeper for babies conforms to the most stringent emission standards and is free of lead, phthalates, and other toxic elements, and its solid build can support up to 17.5 pounds of weight.
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Easy assembly
- Makes night feeding easy
- Includes a waterproof pad that fits standard cradle size sheets
- Greenguard Gold certified
Cons
- Mattress may be a bit thin
- May have a peculiar smell when new
"The robust build and bottom storage shelf are the highlights of this product. I found it easy to assemble; however, the caster wheels are not smooth on my carpet. Still, it has been a good purchase for our nursery, as my baby sleeps soundly."
6. Bet Remote Controlled:CBBAY Electric Baby Cradle
If you are planning a vintage nursery for your baby, this heirloom-quality cradle would fit right in. The cradle has a flat surface to keep your little one comfortable when they sleep. It is handcrafted from solid wood with beautiful details to ace the test of durability and aesthetics. The raised head and sideboards help in keeping the baby safe, and the sideboard railing enables air circulation.
It comes with additional accessories, including a mosquito net, cradle mattress, headrest pillow, fitted sheet, and hanging toys. The cradle runs on 4 AA batteries or electricity.
Pros
- Remote-controlled
- Plays music
- Three swing speeds and modes
- Timer facility to stop the swinging
- Easy to install
- Folds for easy storage
- Includes additional accessories
- Seat belt for safety
Cons
- Automatic swinging might stop pretty quickly
7. Best Vintage:Orbelle Ga Ga Cradle
If you are planning a vintage nursery for your baby, this heirloom-quality cradle would fit right in. It is handcrafted from solid wood with beautiful details that add to the aesthetics. The raised head and sideboards help in keeping the baby safe, and the sideboard railing enables air circulation.
The base comes with wide and sturdy legs that can rock back and forth; the legs are also equipped with stoppers to keep the cradle stationary. This vintage-themed nursery furniture is available in cherry wood, espresso, and French white colors. Plus, it comes with all hardware tools for easy bassinet assembly.
Pros
- Vintage design
- Sturdy base that rocks back and forth
- Locking mechanism
- Raised side and headboards for safety
- Mattress included
Cons
- Mattress might be thin
- Base might crack easily
8. Best Washable Fabric:Uenjoy Automatic Baby Swing Cradle
With both manual and remote control options, this modern swing cradle has many features to soothe the baby to sleep. The daddy-and-mommy-approved Uenjoy baby swing cradle comes with a sturdy base and a soft-clothed bassinet. This swing can be set to five speeds and three time settings and has a lock to prevent it from swinging. The control panel also contains a USB slot and Bluetooth, so you can play the built-in music or your own songs.
This cradle’s baby-friendly bassinet has a washable fabric with a canopy and a mosquito net, a detachable hanging toy, and a headrest pillow.
Pros
- Manual and remote controls
- Five speed settings
- USB and Bluetooth facility
- Soft and washable fabric
- Lock mechanism for swinging
- Mosquito net
- Anti-slip mats near the base
- Battery or electricity-powered
Cons
- Mattress and pillow might be too thin
- Basket may be too low
9. Best Easy To Clean:Regalo My Crib Portable Infant Bassinet
The My Crib Portable Infant Bassinet by the tried-and-trusted brand Regalo comes with a flat surface and a removable design pad insert, ensuring your little one is comfortable. It can be placed beside all beds and hold weights up to 18lb. With a sturdy metal frame and lock clamp legs for added security, this bedside sleeper meets all safety standards set by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the American Society For Testing And Materials. Further, the high-quality bassinet is versatile enough to be used for playtime.
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Secure attachments
- Easy to clean
- Easy to set up
- Suitable for nap time
- Lightweight
- Ideal for new parents
Cons
- Available in one color only
"Being spacious, it accommodates my growing baby comfortably. A washable bassinet sheet would have added to its functionality, but the convenience it offers me and my baby is undeniable."
Quick fact10. Best Locking Mechanism:Green Frog Baby Cradle
The Green Frog baby rocking cradle is handcrafted from New Zealand pine wood and is designed to have sturdy legs with gentle rocking action. The legs are equipped with wheels for easy mobility and can also be locked to keep it stationary. It comes in three different colors and has a non-toxic finish.
This expert-approved cradle is recommended for newborn babies until they learn to push up on their hands and knees. It measures 43 x 20 x 38in and has hidden stabilizing bars to keep your baby safe. Other safety features like raised head and sideboards make this one of the best baby cradles.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Provides calm and peaceful sleep
- Wheels at the base for easy mobility
- Raised head and sideboards for safety
- Gentle rocking motion
- Locking mechanism
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Mattress included might be thin
11. Best With Projection Light: Fisher Price Soothing View Projection Bassinet Cradle
The Soothing View Projection Bassinet Cradle by the trusted brand Fisher Price features meshed sides, vibrations, baby-friendly music, and a starlight projection to put your little one to sleep. The bedside sleeper also has a canopy that can be used to create a calming cocoon, and you can turn this bassinet from a stationary mode to a rocking mode. This high-quality bassinet is perfect for babies weighing less than 20lb.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Comfortable bedding
- Soft padding
- Easy to set up
- Folds flat for easy storage
Cons
- Bassinet may be a tad low
"I am impressed with this bassinet's features, especially the sounds and projector. It is simple to set up, giving my baby a comfortable sleeping area. Despite the manual rocking feature, I prefer this one for its practicality."
How To Choose The Right Baby Cradle?
Here are a few points you should consider when buying a baby’s cradle.
- Base: The base of the cradle has to be sturdy and strong. The cradle should not tilt when you rock the baby or when the baby sleeps but should be strong and stable enough to stay in position.
- Breathability: Pick a baby cradle made of soft, breathable fabric with mesh windows or railings that are wide apart to allow air circulation.
- Portability: If you tend to move the baby’s cradle from one room to another, it is best to buy one with wheels.
- Rocking: Check the rocking movement of the cradle—it should not be too much to make the baby dizzy. A cradle should also have a locking mechanism to keep it stationary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are cradles good for babies?
A cradle provides a swinging option, which can calm your baby and help them sleep more comfortably. However, once your infant outgrows the cradle within a couple of months and starts rolling or weighs more than ten pounds, you should switch to a crib (1).
2. When should I start using a cradle?
You can use the cradle soon after your baby is born and until two to three months. Once they start rolling, the cradle may not be a safe option.
3. Can a baby sleep in a cradle all night?
Your baby needs constant monitoring in the initial days as they wake up frequently. So, making them sleep all night alone may not be advisable.
5. Is it safe to use an old cradle?
It may be a tradition in many cultures to use old cradles. However, old cradles may not meet safety standards even though they look good and damage-free.
6. Are electric cradles safe?
Electric cradles may be unsafe as the rocking or swinging motion function may be vigorous.
7. Do cradles expire?
Cradles do not come with an expiration date. However, do not use cradles that are older than ten years or that are slightly damaged.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is a writer and reviewer covering products that enrich the lives of children, helping them with their mental and physical development. Her impeccable writing skills make all her articles an interesting and informative read. This article on the best cradles for babies has been curated after researching multiple products and their reviews. You will also find a buying guide section to help you make the right choice.
The Bottom Line
Baby cradles are of great help to mothers when they try to lull their little ones to sleep. However, with so many options and variants out there, the baby cradle you select would depend on many factors. Ensure that the cradle is made of sturdy material, has a rocking mechanism to put the baby to sleep, and is breathable and portable. And when it is made of durable material, it might even come in handy when you welcome a second baby to the family. We recommend the vintage-style Dream On Me Rocking Cradle for its raised footboard and archboard and the Green Frog Baby Bassinet Cradle, as it is portable and easy to assemble. You can also opt for the Dream On Me Lacy 2-in-1 Bassinet And Cradle if you are looking for a spacious yet lightweight option.
Infographic: Safe Use Of Baby Cradles
A baby cradle offers a comfortable and secure sleeping space for infants and can be an excellent alternative to traditional cribs. However, it is crucial to use the cradle properly to ensure the baby’s safety and comfort. Explore the infographic below to learn about the factors to consider when using a cradle.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Bassinets and Cradles Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
https://www.cpsc.gov/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Bassinets-and-Cradles
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