Do I Need Both A Bassinet And A Crib?

As a new parent, you may wonder whether it’s necessary to buy a bassinet and a crib for your baby’s room. Some families opt to purchase the larger of the two options, but that’s not the best choice in many cases. The truth is that both bassinets and cribs have pros and cons, so you must understand what they are before deciding which option will work best for your family.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about buying these items, whether you’re having your first baby or your fourth!

What is an infant bassinet?

An infant bassinet is a small bed specifically designed for newborns and young infants. It is usually smaller than a crib, and often has a hood or canopy that provides some shade and protection from light.

Infant bassinets are typically designed to be portable and lightweight, with handles or wheels that allow them to be easily moved from room to room. Some models also feature rockers or swings that can soothe a fussy baby and help them fall asleep.

Bassinets are generally used for the first few months of a baby’s life, until they are big enough to sleep comfortably in a crib. They are often placed next to the parents’ bed for easy access during nighttime feedings and comforting.

What is a crib?

A crib is a type of bed designed for infants and young children. It typically has high sides or railings to prevent the child from falling out or climbing out of the bed.

Crib mattresses are also specifically designed for infants and are usually firmer than adult mattresses to provide proper support for the baby’s developing body. Cribs are often an essential piece of furniture for parents of newborns, and they can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.

Do I Need A Bassinet And A Crib?

Whether or not you need a bassinet and a crib depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Age and weight of your baby

Bassinets are generally recommended for newborns up to around 4-6 months of age or until they can roll over or push up on their hands and knees. Cribs can be used from birth to around 2-3 years of age or until your child can climb out of the crib.

3. Convenience

Bassinets are smaller and more portable than cribs, making them more convenient for parents who want to keep their baby close by in the early weeks or months. Some bassinets are designed to be easily moved from room to room, making it easier for parents to keep an eye on their baby during naps or at night.

4. Space

If you have limited space in your home, a bassinet may be better than a full-size crib. Bassinets can be placed next to your bed or in a smaller room, while cribs require more space.

5. Cost

Bassinets are less expensive than cribs, so if you’re on a tight budget, a bassinet is a more affordable option. However, remember that your baby will outgrow a bassinet more quickly than a crib, so you may need to purchase a crib eventually.

So, the decision to use both a bassinet and a crib, or just one or the other, is up to you. Some parents find a bassinet sufficient for the first few months, while others prefer using a crib. Choosing a sleeping arrangement that works for your family and meets your baby’s needs for safety and comfort is essential.

Pros and Cons Of A Bassinet 

Pros of a Bassinet:

1. Smaller size: Bassinets are typically smaller than cribs, which makes them more portable and easier to move around the house. They can also fit more easily in smaller bedrooms or apartments.
2. Close proximity to parents: Many parents choose to place their newborns in a bassinet in their own bedroom, which allows them to keep a close eye on their baby and attend to their needs quickly during the night.
3. Soothing features: Some bassinets come with built-in features like rockers, vibrations, or white noise machines that can help soothe a fussy baby and promote better sleep.
4. Better for breastfeeding: Bassinets are usually designed to be placed at a height that is comfortable for breastfeeding, which can make nighttime feedings easier for both mother and baby.
5. Lower cost: Bassinets are generally less expensive than cribs, which can be a major consideration for families on a tight budget.

Cons of a Bassinet:

1. Limited lifespan: Bassinets are generally only suitable for use for the first few months of a baby’s life, after which they will need to transition to a crib.
2. Weight limits: Because bassinets are smaller than cribs, they also have lower weight limits, which means they may not be suitable for larger or heavier babies.
3. Safety concerns: Bassinets can pose safety risks if they are not used properly or if they are not designed to meet current safety standards. It is important to choose a high-quality, well-made bassinet and to follow all safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Pros and Cons of a crib

Pros of a crib:

1. Safety: Cribs are designed with high sides and railings to prevent the baby from falling out of the bed, which can provide parents with peace of mind.
2. Comfortable: Cribs are specifically designed for infants and young children and often have a firmer mattress than an adult bed to provide proper support for the baby’s developing body.
3. Long-lasting: A good quality crib can last for several years, and some can even be converted into toddler beds or daybeds, providing value for money in the long term.
4. Variety: Cribs come in a variety of styles, colors, and materials, providing parents with a range of options to choose from to fit their personal taste and home decor.

Cons of a crib:

1. Expensive: High-quality cribs can be expensive, which may not fit into everyone’s budget.
2. Size: Cribs can take up a lot of space in a room, which can be a challenge for parents who have limited space.
3. Limited Use: Cribs are only useful for a limited amount of time as babies grow quickly and will eventually outgrow the crib.
4. Assembly: Some cribs can be challenging to assemble, requiring specific tools and expertise, which may be daunting for some parents.

The Verdict: Do I Need Both A Bassinet And A Crib?

In the end, you can only decide if you need a bassinet and a crib. If your baby seems comfortable enough in one or the other, then stick with it. If there’s no pressing reason to change, keep using your bassinet or your Crib.

And if you need to make a change before the next sleep comes round, go ahead and do so. There isn’t any harm in that – as long as you go with what your baby needs!

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Most Common Questions: 

Can You Use A Pack And Play As A Bassinet?

Yes, you can use a Pack and Play as a bassinet. Just ensure you are using it at its proper height, which is when it is a regular bed height with the mattress at its lowest setting. Some people have raised concerns that using a Pack’ n Play as a bassinet may be a suffocation or even a strangulation hazard, but they are entirely baseless. The Pack’ n Play is a safe way to keep your baby close and near you while you sleep.

Why Use A Bassinet Instead Of A Crib?

You should use a bassinet even if you have a crib. The main reason is their smaller size, making them a great option if you have a small bedroom or want one in your living room. They are also more portable than a crib, so you can take them with you if you visit someone who doesn’t have a crib. It’s also a good alternative if you want to be able to bring your baby wherever you go but don’t have a baby carrier. Just make sure to never leave your baby unattended.

Do I Need A Bassinet And A Pack And Play?

It’s unnecessary, but it can be a great way to ensure your little one is safe and secure.

The Pack N Play is a portable crib that can be used for babies too small to sleep in their own bed. It has a canopy that keeps the baby from rolling off the side of the Crib, and it comes with a mattress pad to help protect your baby from overheating. The Pack’ N Play can also be used as a bassinet, so if your child needs extra support to sleep comfortably, you can put the Pack’ N Play by their bedside for them to use at night.

Can A Bassinet Be Used As A Crib?

Yes, they can be used interchangeably. It depends on how much you want to spend. If you spend a little more money, you can get a great bassinet (bassinet = a bed for an infant. Crib = a bed for a baby.) that can be converted into a crib. Some people think the bassinet is more attractive or that the Crib is less beautiful. But, many cribs can become bassinets and vice versa. So, it is totally up to the buyer which setup he wants.

Do I Need A Bassinet And A Cot?

There are many advantages of using a bassinet for your newborns. First of all, a bassinet is cheaper than a cot. When buying a cot, you will have to purchase beddings as well. Most of the bassinets come with a mattress and snug fitted sheet, which makes it more convenient. A bassinet is much quicker to set up and dry up than a cot.

Should A Newborn Sleep In A Crib Or Bassinet?

Babies sleep better in their cribs. Bassinets and cradles are more like playpens and keep babies entertained with the toys attached. They can also cause your baby to sleep with her head at an awkward angle.

What Do You Use Between Crib And Bassinet?

We use a thin quilt between the mattress and the edge of the Crib to ensure there are no gaps in which the baby can get caught. #1 rule to follow is to avoid bumpers in cribs. They look pretty on the Crib but make it difficult for the baby to breathe through crib slats.