Starting in a bassinet is common for many babies. When your baby is a few months old, you may wonder whether it’s time to transition from one warm nest to another as they become older.
Between the ages of three and six months, most babies are ready to go into a crib. If your baby is still sleeping nicely in the bassinet, it may not be appropriate to hurry into converting it to a crib. However, the longer you delay, the more difficult it will be for your baby.
When to Move Your Baby from Bassinet to Crib?
There isn’t a definitive guide to advise you when to put your baby in their crib; however, there are several indicators that they are ready for the change:
The movement of your baby throughout the night
It’s a good idea to monitor your baby’s nocturnal movements. Consider moving them if they’re adjusting their postures or rolling over. Because of the risk of being suffocated by the little bed’s edges, a bassinet that is too small for your infant might be dangerous for an adventurous sleeper.
Know the weight of your newborn child
You may be able to determine the weight restriction of your present bassinet by checking the manufacturer’s website. Your baby’s weight should be considered when determining whether or not your baby’s bassinet is safe for them to sleep in.
The age of your child
When a baby is six months old, most parents think they’ve outgrown their crib. You may notice that your baby’s legs are becoming longer by the day since some newborns develop quicker than others. When they are this old, it’s typically OK to switch.
The quality of your most recent night’s sleep
How much sleep can you get when you have a baby in bed with you? Do you or your spouse wake up often at night because of the baby’s crying? Alternatively, are you receiving the quantity of sleep that you require? Ask yourself those questions when considering whether it’s time to put your kid to sleep in a crib.
How to Transition Your Baby From Bassinet to Crib
To ease the move into a crib, here are some suggestions:
Gradually implement the change
To help her get used to it, allow her to sleep in her crib throughout the day. Finally, make sure she’s sleeping in her crib at all times by making the transfer complete.
Set a nighttime schedule that works for you
It’s never too early to start developing a nightly routine for your baby. Your baby will associate these activities with sleep as you repeat them each night, so she’ll begin to associate them with the end of the day.
Use a different bed in the same room
If you move her crib into your room for a few nights, you may find it simpler to transition your baby to a crib. You may return it to its original location as soon as she gets used to the new environment.
Stay in the baby’s room at night
It’s an excellent method for you and your baby to get used to the notion of sleeping apart from one another. No, we’re not advocating that you sleep in the baby’s crib (which would be unsafe for everyone involved and likely break), but if you have access to a bed, sofa, or air mattress, consider spending a few nights in the same room as the infant.
Stay around for a little
Allow your infant to calm down and feel comfortable while you’re still in the room – don’t immediately drop and bolt. The chair approach of sleep training is one option. The first night, sit close to her crib and then gradually move farther away each night until you’re out of the house and she’s content on her own.
Incorporate some coziness
You shouldn’t put anything (such as plush animals or cushions and blankets) in your baby’s crib until they are 12 to 18 months old, but you may make the space more relaxing by lowering the lights and playing some white noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
is Bassinet Better Than Crib for Babies?
For a newborn, both a crib and a bassinet are suitable options. However, there are several significant variances. As the name implies, a bassinet takes up less room than a crib, making it an ideal option for homes with limited square footage. Because they’re smaller, bassinets are easier to move about, as well.
How long can a baby safely sleep in a bassinet?
You don’t have to send your baby out on her own just because she’s six months old. If she’s still in a bassinet and hasn’t sat up or rolled over, it’s OK to leave her there for a bit longer. You should also think about how well you’re all sleeping along.
Is it essential to have a bassinet for a newborn?
No. Babies don’t have to sleep in a bassinet by default. It’s merely an asleep accessory that enhances your child’s and your convenience and safety. Your baby’s sleep schedule, preferences, space availability, and money all play a role in deciding whether or not your little one should sleep on it.
Is it possible for a newborn to be placed in a crib right away?
Putting your infant in a crib right away is acceptable since you’ll eventually have to. Many parents go straight towards the crib. For the first few weeks/months, you should use a bassinet, and after that, you may switch to a baby crib.
Is a bassinet worth the money?
A bassinet is a safe and secure place for your infant to sleep for the first several months. Many new parents worry about keeping their babies near to them when they sleep. A bassinet is an excellent choice because of its simplicity and safety.
Bottom Line
Avoid worrying about the move from your room to your baby’s cot at night. After a period of adjustment, this shift will benefit the whole family. Your baby will soon be able to sleep independently, and you can return to your bed.
