When to stop using a bassinet depends on several factors. It includes your baby’s weight, size, and mobility, as safety recommendations from the manufacturer. Experts recommend using the bassinet between 4 and 6 months for safety and comfort.
Bassinets are designed to accommodate babies up to 25 lbs. Others can only handle babies up to 20 pounds.
Let me explain the factors and evidence to understand when to stop using the bassinet. And at what age should you stop using a baby bassinet?
According to the assistant professor Dr. Rebekah Diamond. [1]
At Columbia University;
“There is no fixed number to how long you can use the bassinet for a baby. While bassinets are usable for around three months, others may use it longer.”
Yet, it’s important to note that once your baby starts trying to climb out of the bassinet or has outgrown it. It’s time to transition your baby into a crib.
You should also consider your baby’s mobility. It can roll over at their ease when your baby reaches three to four months. They could easily tip the bassinet over, making sleeping unsafe. Instead, consider using an infant bed or toddler bed.
Stop using a bassinet if your baby is too long or tall. And the baby can touch the ends of the bassinet. Besides, if the manufacturer advises against using the bassinet, follow their recommendations.
The ideal time to stop using a bassinet is when your baby reaches 4 to 6 months. Or the baby outgrows the bassinet’s weight or size limit. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations. And keep an eye on your baby’s mobility and comfort level when using a bassinet.
Bassinets Need For Babies: Best Guide For Mommies
Bassinets are a wise choice for new parents on their newborns. Because bassinets offer a cozy, comfortable, and safe place for babies to sleep.
Yet, as babies grow & develop, parents now need to transition them. And into a more suitable sleeping arrangement.
Here, we will explore when to stop using bassinet and the reasons behind it.
What is a Bassinet?
A small, portable baby bed is a bassinet. It is designed for newborns and young infants. It features a basket-like fabric, mesh, or wicker design, with a hood or canopy to provide shade and privacy.
For easy access, bassinets are beside the parent’s bed. And to keep an eye on during the night.
Motives to Stop Using a Bassinet
There are several factors or motives why parents should consider transitioning their babies. And into more suitable sleeping arrangements.
Weight Limit
One of the primary reasons to stop using a bassinet is when your baby exceeds the weight limit. Most of the bassinets have a weight limit of around 15 to 20 pounds. When a baby exceeds this weight limit, it’s better to start thinking about transmitting them to a safe sleep area.
Size Limit
Another reason to stop using a bassinet is when your baby outgrows the size of the sleeping surface. Bassinets have a small sleeping surface. Now it can become cramped and uncomfortable as your baby grows if your baby’s head or feet touch the sides of the bassinet. Now it’s time to transition them into a larger sleeping arrangement.
Rolling Over
Babies start rolling over between four to six months of age. Suppose your baby has started rolling over. Then choose a suitable sleeping surface for your baby.
Moving over increases the risk of suffocation or injury in a bassinet because the sides of the bassinet are soft and breathable.
As per CDC:[2]
Each year in the United States, ∼3500 infants die due to suffocation and deaths from unknown causes.
But how does it occur?
When your baby sleeps in a bassinet, the time is midnight or any day when the baby is alone and in a bassinet. The baby rolled over the bassinet. The baby’s face is coming into the wall of the bassinet. And it causes suffocation.
Now, when the baby starts to roll over? Or when I know that I should stop using the bassinet.
According to WebMD: [3] Baby starts uncontrolled rollover movements at four months. The position is on a roll from tummy to back.
Now what you can do is that the baby starts rolling over, and it may suffocate.
You can use blankets with bassinets to prevent this issue.
Need for More Space
Babies need more space to move around when they grow. Bassinets no issue provide safe and comfortable sleep. But as time passes, the baby grows, and they need more space. So, you need to deliver his best surface, like a play yard or crib. These give them the freedom to stretch and move around.
Safety Concerns
Bassinets are generally safe for newborns and young infants. But, as babies grow, there are safety concerns to consider. If your baby can reach and grab objects, they may be at risk of pulling blankets or toys into the bassinet, posing a suffocation hazard. And it increases the risk of falling out of the bassinet.
Developmental Milestones
Developmental milestones for bassinets are at different rates. But as a general rule, they become more active and mobile around six months. It means they may need more space to move around and explore. A bassinet may no longer provide the space and stimulation your baby needs to develop and thrive.
According to Helpmegrowmn.org.[4]
Knowing these milestones at different ages helps parents understand their child’s growth and development. Choose an age or developmental area to learn more.
Changing Sleep Habits
As babies age, their sleep habits and patterns may change. For example, they may start to sleep for longer stretches at night. They may begin taking fewer naps during the day. These changes may need a different sleeping arrangement to meet your baby’s needs.
Parental Comfort
Finally, it’s essential to consider your comfort and needs when deciding when to stop using the bassinet. At the same time, a bassinet can be a convenient sleeping arrangement for newborns.
It may become less comfortable or convenient as your baby ages. Suggest, if you are having trouble reaching your baby in the bassinet, to get them in and out of it.
Consider a different sleeping arrangement that is more comfortable and convenient for you.
In conclusion, when deciding when to stop using a bassinet, there are many reasons to consider being aware of the critical factors and following safe sleep practices. Also, consulting with your healthcare provider can ensure your baby’s smooth and safe transition.
The Following Tips Will Help You Make the Transition:
Transitioning your baby out of a bassinet can be daunting. But it can be a smooth & easy process with the right approach.
Choose the Right Sleeping Arrangement
Choosing a sleeping arrangement is essential when transitioning your baby out of a bassinet. A crib is popular, but other options include a playpen, a co-sleeper, or a toddler bed. The primary need is the safety and comfort of an infant.
Little by Little, Introduce the New Sleeping Arrangement
Rather than making a sudden switch, it’s better to introduce the baby to the new sleeping bed. It helps babies feel more comfortable. Also, they feel secure in their new sleeping space. You can start by placing the new sleeping arrangement in the same room as the bassinet.
And encouraging your baby to play and explore around it. You can also let your baby nap in the new sleeping area during the day before moving them there for the night.
Use Familiar Items
Use everyday items like blankets or toys to make the baby comfortable in the new sleeping place. You can also use the same sheets or bedding from the bassinet to create a sense of continuity and familiarity.
Stick to a Routine
Babies thrive on routine and predictability. So establish a consistent bedtime routine when transitioning them out of a bassinet. It can include a warm bath, a story or lullaby, and cuddles before bed. By sticking to a routine, your baby will feel more secure and relaxed in their new bed.
Monitor Your Baby
As with any transition, monitoring your baby closely during the first few nights in their new sleeping arrangement is essential. You may need to adjust the bedding or environment to ensure they are comfortable and safe.
Here’s the best thing to do is to use a baby monitor. It helps you to hear and respond to your baby’s needs during the night.
Sure! While the above information covers the key reasons to stop using a bassinet and tips for transitioning your baby.
Here’re Other Factors to Consider. What? Let’s Read;
Most bassinets have weight and size limits. And once your baby reaches these limits, it’s time to transition them.
Additionally, if your baby is starting to roll over or sit up, a bassinet may no longer be safe for them.
The one other option is using a sleep sack with bassinets.
If you’re not ready to move your baby to a crib, use a sleep sack instead of blankets to keep them warm. A sleep sack is a wearable blanket that covers the baby’s body but leaves its arms and legs free to move.
Another consideration is your sleeping arrangement.
Be aware of the risks of co-sleeping with a baby in an attached bassinet. While co-sleeping can be convenient for breastfeeding and bonding. Its probability increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
If your priority is co-sleeping, make sure to follow safe sleep practices. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for more guidance.
Some babies may be ready to transition out of a bassinet earlier or later than others, and that’s okay. So, pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust the transition process as the baby needs. And ensure a smooth and safe transition to a new sleeping arrangement.
Conclusion of When To Stop Using a Bassinet:
Knowing when to stop using a bassinet ensures your baby’s safety.
Babies require varying sleep setups as they grow.
To ensure a smooth transition, follow tips and be aware of reasons to stop using the bassinet. Every baby is different in its health and its environment, which depends on the baby’s growth. So, change the baby’s bed for the recommendation of weight, age limit, and rolling position.
Yet, if you’re not sure “when to stop using a bassinet,” consult with your pediatrics.
FAQ’s
- When should I replace my baby bassinet?
It’s essential to ensure your baby’s safety when using a bassinet. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the bassinet’s maximum age or weight limit. If your baby has outgrown the recommended size, it’s time to upgrade to a larger sleeping surface. When the baby has started to roll over, sit up or crawl, it may be time to move them to another sleeping surface.
2. How long can a baby use a bassinet? What is the recommended age?
Bassinet usage time varies by model and manufacturer’s guidelines. But bassinets until they are about 4-6 months old. Or until they can roll over, push up on their hands and knees, or sit up unassisted.
3. How To Know When a Baby Outgrows a bassinet?
There’s no specific theory, but you must know some sign that helps you decide.
- When the baby starts rollover
- When age & weight limit exceeds
- When the baby starts pushing himself at arms etc.
Always focus on your baby’s safety when choosing a sleeping surface.
References:
Baltimore city health department: Safe sleep infants death
Healthybabiesbaltimore.com: Safe Sleep resources
National Library of Medicine: SIDS (sleep environment)
Helpmegrowmn.org: Baby crawl, Roll positions guide