With bassinets and cradles only being used for the first 4 or 6 months, they are more of a luxury product that not all parents feel they need. Baby bassinets and cradles are usually a very highly used piece of furniture if you decide on getting one, but most parents will agree they are not a necessity.

Bassinets and cradles are basically the same; both are small and temporary; both are typically used for the first 4 or 6 months of your baby's life; and both can be moved from room to room. A cradle is usually a little heavier making it a slight bit bulkier to move around. Most cradles will also rock back and forth while bassinets are typically stationary.

What to look for when shopping

Make sure the bassinet or cradle has a wide base and sturdy construction.

If you are looking at a bassinet or cradle that has wooden slats or spindles, make sure the space between the slats is no more than 2 3/8 inches.

If you're looking at a folding model, make sure the locks or latches that hold the legs in place are well made and secure.

If the bassinet or cradle has wheels, be sure these wheels can lock.

Make sure the mattress fits tightly in place. You don't want to be able to fit any more than two fingers between the mattress and the side of the bassinet or cradle.

If the bassinet or cradle has a hood, make sure it folds back. If it doesn't fold back you will find it gets in the way when putting your baby down to sleep.

Make sure their are no rough edges on the inside of the bassinet or cradle where your baby will be sleeping.

Safety Tips

If you have pets or other children in the house, a bassinet or cradle is probably not a good idea to use. Pets and other children can tip over a bassinet. If you do decide to use one with pets or children in the house, never leave your baby unattended and try to position the bassinet or cradle in a corner of the room where it can't be tipped over.

Follow the manufacturers weight limits for how long you should use the bassinet or cradle. You will typically only use them for 4 to 6 months.

If you have a folding model, always make sure the legs are securely locked.

If your model has wheels, always make sure the wheels are locked when your baby is in the bassinet or cradle.

A lot of bassinets sold today come as a complete set with all of the bedding. Take note: if your bassinet or cradle comes with a blanket, this blanket is for decoration only. Leaving any type of soft bedding in with your sleeping baby can be a potential suffocation hazard.

As a final Note

Always send in your product registration card. This is how you will be notified in case of a recall.

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