Bassinet to Crib Transition – What You Need to Know

Most babies will start their lives sleeping in a bassinet. Bassinets are the perfect size for your newborn and fit very well in your bedroom. In fact, it is recommended that your newborn sleeps with you in your room for the first six months, up to a year.

Mom and Dad's room is the safest place for the baby to sleep at the beginning. Studies have shown a major decrease in infant deaths. When you are close to the baby at all times, you can prevent some of the known causes of SIDS.

So the question is, when will the baby outgrow his bassinet and move into a crib? There are a few factors that will need to be considered. There is no fast and hard rule for when the transition should happen. The following is a guideline to check off. You will find it easier to make the transition with these points.

Is your bassinet small- Your baby might outgrow it quickly. Depending on what bassinet you have chosen, and how quickly your baby grows, could move him out sooner than later. I recommend you buy a bassinet that can accommodate the baby for as long as possible. They will feel more secure in a cozy space, especially at the beginning.

The design of your bassinet- Bassinets all have different designs; some have high sides and others a lot shorter. The design will determine how long the baby can use it. It is always best to refer to the owner's manual.

Is your baby rolling over or sitting up A bassinet becomes unsafe when your baby can move around in it. If they are rolling over or sitting up, they will need to be in a crib. Bassinets tend to be shallower than cribs, so there’s a risk your baby could flip out of his bed.

Is your baby having quality sleep- Quality of sleep has a lot to do with where the baby is sleeping. Most bassinets are designed to be comfortable and practical, however, depending on your baby's needs he might be ready to move out. If you find your baby to be uncomfortable or having interrupted sleep, you might want to try him in a crib.

How to Move Baby to Crib

Now that you are ready to try the transition, the question is how do you move them successfully?

This may come very naturally to some babies, and they will take wonderfully to all that space. Here are some helpful tips to move the baby over to his crib.

*Note: We strongly recommend you still keep the baby in your room for up to one year. You will want to replace the bassinet with the crib. Yes, it might be time to redecorate

Take the plunge-Completely swap the bassinet for the crib. Your baby might have no problem with the move. Keep the crib in the same location the bassinet was, (as best you can.) Continue the same routine, as before.

Introduce the crib- Lye baby in the crib through the day to introduce it. You can even alternate naps from bassinet to crib.

Keep toys out of the crib-The idea is to associate the crib with sleep. Just as adults it is recommended to keep the bedroom “Device-free.” The bedroom should be a place where other activities do not happen.

Sleep with baby- if you are struggling with the baby not sleeping in the crib, try switching at night when you can go to bed together. Your baby might need that comfort until he gets used to his new sleeping space.

Conclusion

The transition from a bassinet to the crib is one of the most important milestones for you and your baby. It will be an exciting time, but it can also be stressful if you don't know what to expect or how best to prepare. We want to help by providing some useful tips that will make this process much smoother for both of you.

Check out our post below on everything parents need to know about Bassinet To Crib Transition – What You Need To Know, including helpful advice like these 5 tips, 10 things every parent should do before making the transition, and so much more!

Or take advantage of our free email course which covers all aspects in detail! Whatever route your family chooses we hope it's enjoyable and stressful...Take some time now with us, so later when it comes time for bedtime routines there will be less stress involved.

There are some helpful points to consider when moving your baby from bassinet to crib, but each baby will be different. These points are a great guideline to follow but also follow your own feelings.

The most important consideration is baby safety, if your bassinet is no longer providing the safest sleeping option, you need to make the change.

FAQs

Q: When is the best time to transition from a bassinet to a crib?

A: The ideal time to transition from a bassinet to a crib is when your baby reaches the maximum weight limit or height allowed by the bassinet's manufacturer. This is typically around 5-6 months old. However, some babies may outgrow their bassinet sooner, while others may be comfortable in it for a little longer. Ultimately, the decision to transition should be based on your baby's individual needs and development.

Q: How can I help my baby adjust to sleeping in a crib?

A: The transition from a bassinet to a crib can be a big adjustment for babies, but there are several things you can do to make the process easier. First, try to make the new sleeping environment as familiar and comfortable as possible. This can be done by placing familiar objects, such as a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, in the crib. You can also try using white noise or a night light to create a soothing atmosphere. Finally, be patient and consistent with your baby's sleep routine to help them feel secure and comfortable in their new sleeping space.

Q: What safety considerations should I keep in mind during the transition from a bassinet to a crib?

A: Safety is always a top priority when it comes to baby sleep, so there are several things to keep in mind during the transition from a bassinet to a crib. First, make sure the crib meets all safety standards and guidelines. The crib should have a firm, flat mattress and snug-fitting sheets. You should also ensure that the crib is free from any loose or soft bedding, such as blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals, which can increase the risk of suffocation or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Finally, make sure the crib is placed in a safe location, away from any hazards such as cords, curtains, or blinds.