Choosing the right sleeping arrangement for your newborn is one of the first big decisions you will face as a parent. With safety guidelines evolving and opinions flying from every direction, it is easy to feel overwhelmed.
We have tested various beds and polled the parenting community to find out what works best in the real world. We will compare the safety and functionality of bedside co-sleepers and bassinets to help you decide which option is right for your family.
Key Takeaways
- Safety first: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing for at least six months to reduce SIDS risk, but advises against bed-sharing.
- Bedside sleepers: These attach to your bed, offering the closeness of co-sleeping with the safety of a separate surface.
- Bassinets: Great for portability and small spaces, though babies usually outgrow them by 4 to 6 months.
- Avoid inclined sleepers: Products like the Rock ‘n Play are no longer considered safe for sleep; babies should always sleep on a firm, flat surface.
Deciding Factors for Your Sleeper
Every parent faces sleep dilemmas. It is arguably the toughest challenge of the newborn phase. Once your little one arrives, your nights turn upside down with feedings and soothing sessions.
To minimize stress, you need a sleeping arrangement that maximizes rest for everyone while keeping the baby safe. Here are a few things to consider before you buy.
- Price: If you are on a tight budget, look for options with longevity. Some bassinets are affordable but only last a few months, while a crib or playard might last years.
- Space: Apartment living might require a compact bassinet with a small footprint. If you have more room, a larger bedside sleeper might work better.
- Portability: Do you want to move the baby from the bedroom to the living room during naps? A lightweight bassinet on wheels is a lifesaver for keeping the baby close during the day.
- Features: Some models come with vibration, white noise, or nightlights. These can be helpful tools if your baby is fussy.
We are going to focus on bedside co-sleepers and bassinets, as these are the leading choices for the first few months.
Safety Warning
Room Sharing for Safety
Room sharing is a major component of safe sleep guidelines. The AAP recommends keeping your baby’s sleeping area in the same room where you sleep for at least the first six months, ideally the first year.
Sleeping with your baby nearby significantly decreases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, known as SIDS. It also makes breastfeeding and monitoring much easier. While some parents worry about noise disruption, the safety benefits outweigh the potential for lost sleep (2).
The Dangers of Bed-Sharing
Some parents practice bed-sharing (sleeping in the same bed with the baby) to facilitate bonding and breastfeeding. However, without a separate, designated space for the infant, this practice carries significant risks.
The adult mattress is often too soft, and bedding poses hazards that are not present in a bare crib or bassinet. Here are the primary dangers associated with bed-sharing (3):
- Suffocation: Adult pillows, heavy blankets, and duvets are suffocation hazards for infants. Even a parent’s clothing can pose a risk.
- Entrapment: Babies can get trapped between the mattress and the wall, headboard, or the parent’s body.
- Rolling over: Exhausted parents sleep deeply. There is a real risk of rolling onto the infant, especially if the parent is overly tired or has consumed alcohol or medication.
- Falls: Even newborns can wiggle enough to fall off the side of an adult bed.
Using a bedside co-sleeper allows you to keep your baby within arm’s reach without exposing them to the hazards of an adult bed.
Pros and Cons of Bedside Co-Sleepers
A bedside co-sleeper (often just called a co-sleeper) acts as an extension of your own bed. It typically has a drop-down side that allows you to access your baby easily while keeping them on their own separate, safe mattress.
This is an excellent compromise for parents who want the closeness of attachment parenting with the safety of a separate sleep surface. It is particularly helpful for breastfeeding moms and those recovering from C-sections who want to avoid getting in and out of bed frequently.
Here is why you might love a co-sleeper:
- Convenience: You can comfort or feed your baby without leaving your bed. This helps everyone fall back asleep faster.
- Closeness: You get the bonding benefits of having your baby right next to you, which can help regulate the baby’s breathing and heart rate.
- Stability: These units usually anchor to the adult bed, making them very stable and secure compared to a standalone basket.
However, there are some downsides to consider:
- Short lifespan: Most bedside sleepers are only safe until the baby starts rolling over or pushing up, usually around 5 or 6 months.
- Bulk: They can be large and difficult to move. Once attached to the bed, they generally stay there, so you cannot easily move them to the living room for a nap.
- Bed access: Having a sleeper attached to the side of the bed can make it difficult for the parent on that side to get in and out.
Pros and Cons of Bassinets
Bassinets are standalone sleeping units designed for newborns. They are generally smaller than cribs and co-sleepers, making them ideal for families with limited space.
Because they are not tethered to the bed, bassinets offer more flexibility. You can keep it next to your bed at night and wheel it into the kitchen while you make coffee in the morning.
The benefits of choosing a bassinet include:
- Portability: Most models are lightweight and easy to move room-to-room. Some even fold up for travel.
- Small footprint: If your master bedroom is tight on space, a bassinet is less intrusive than a crib or large co-sleeper.
- Variety: There are endless styles available, from classic wicker looks to high-tech modern options with smart features.
Consider these drawbacks before buying:
- Weight limits: Babies outgrow bassinets quickly. Once your baby reaches the weight limit (often 15-20 lbs) or can roll over, you must stop using it.
- Lower height: Some bassinets sit lower to the ground than co-sleepers, which might require you to lean over further to pick up the baby.
FAQs
Are Co-Sleepers Safe for Newborns?
Yes, bedside co-sleepers are safe for newborns when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They provide a separate, flat, and firm sleep surface that attaches securely to the adult bed, preventing gaps where a baby could get trapped. This setup meets the AAP recommendation for room-sharing without bed-sharing.
How Long Can Babies Sleep in a Co-Sleeper?
Babies can typically use a co-sleeper until they begin to push up on their hands and knees or roll over consistently. This usually happens between 3 and 6 months of age. Always check the specific weight and milestone limits listed in your product’s manual.
Is a Rocking Bassinet Worth It?
A rocking bassinet can be helpful for soothing fussy babies, as the motion mimics being held or rocked in the womb. However, the bassinet should have a locking mechanism to stop the rocking once the baby is asleep, as sleeping on a moving surface can pose safety risks if the baby rolls.
When Should You Stop Using a Bassinet?
You should transition your baby out of a bassinet as soon as they can roll over, push up on their hands and knees, or sit up unassisted. Additionally, if they reach the manufacturer’s maximum weight limit (often 15 to 20 pounds), it is time to move to a crib or playard.
Is a Co-Sleeper the Same as a Bassinet?
No, they are different. A bedside co-sleeper is designed to attach physically to the adult bed and often has a drop-down wall for easy access. A bassinet is a standalone unit with four walls that sits near the bed but remains separate.
Can I Use a Pack ‘n Play Instead of a Bassinet?
Yes, many Pack ‘n Plays (playards) are approved for safe sleep. Some models come with a bassinet insert that raises the mattress for newborns. They are a great cost-effective option because they can be used for travel and play well into the toddler years.
