Contours® Classique™ 3-in-1 Bassinet

There’s a good chance that the first place your baby will sleep outside the hospital is within a bassinet or cradle. Many different models of bassinets exist: bassinets that rock, bassinets that roll, bassinets that vibrate, bassinets that convert into co-sleepers…

How do you select the model that’s best for you and your baby?

Bassinet or Cradle?
First, let’s differentiate between a bassinet and a cradle. Cradles haven’t actually changed much over the years. Typically constructed of wood — although some newer models are a combination of metal and plastic — a cradle permits you to rock your baby to sleep.

Heirloom Cradles
If you plan to use an heirloom cradle, make sure the rails are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, per modern safety standards. Additionally, make sure:

• the cradle was not painted with lead paint
• the wood is not splintering
• you can purchase a mattress that fits properly
• the cradle is still sturdy
• any hardware is in good condition and not rusted

All About Bassinets
A bassinet typically is not designed to rock, although some models, such as the Kolcraft Easy Reach Ultra Light Vibes Rocking Bassinet, do offer that as a feature. Bassinets may also have wheels and be less bulky than cradles, making them easier to transport from room to room.

Some bassinets convert to a changing table or a co-sleeper, providing more flexibility. Many provide additional storage space in the form of baskets beneath the bassinet or diaper hangers on the side of the bassinet. Additionally, a bassinet will typically have a hood to block sunlight and may come with a mobile.

What to Look for in a Bassinet

The most important aspects of your bassinet relate to your baby’s safety. When selecting a bassinet, look for one that:

• Has a sturdy base. If the bassinet has wheels, they should lock when the bassinet is in use. If the bassinet folds up, as some models do for easy transport, the legs should lock securely.
• Will not tip. Keep in mind that pets can tip a bassinet, and should be kept out of any room where baby is sleeping. But under normal use conditions, your bassinet should be stable.

• Has a firm mattress that fits tightly on all sides of the bassinet. (Many bassinets come with a mattress). Be wary of bassinets with unusual shapes – it may be hard to find sheets for them. Sheets should fit tightly, and you will want to keep multiple sets on hand in case baby spits up in the middle of the night.
• Has no rough or sharp edges or spaces where baby can get trapped.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Bassinet

Once you know what to look for in a safe bassinet for your baby, you can begin considering the fun stuff, the features that distinguish the different models of bassinet. To decide what features are important to you, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you want storage space for blankets or diapers?
• Do you want a particular color scheme or design to match the baby’s room – or your bedroom?
• Do you want a gender neutral color so the bassinet can be used for future babies?
• Do you want a bassinet that plays music? Rocks? Vibrates? |
• Do you want to be able to move the bassinet easily from room to room? Or even pack it in the car for a day at Grandma’s or an overnight trip?
• Do you plan to co-sleep? If so, some bassinets convert to co-sleepers that attach to the side of your bed. If you’re not sure if you’d like to co-sleep but are considering it, one of these convertible models might be a wise choice.

Do you really need a bassinet or cradle?

Some parents start baby sleeping in a full-size crib from day one. Since babies only fit in their bassinet or cradle for 4 – 6 months, foregoing a bassinet altogether saves money. You may want to use a bassinet or cradle if:

• You plan to keep baby in your bedroom for the first 6 months (especially recommended if you breastfeed)
• You want a smaller sleeping option for a tight space
• You want a second place for baby to sleep at Grandma’s house
• You want the vibrating functions or rocking motions of a bassinet or cradle to help baby fall asleep.
• You feel your infant would be more comfortable in a smaller, cozier sleeping environment.