Bassinets make taking care of your baby easier because they are right there beside you. Many bassinets come with nice features that you have come to rely on. However, there will come a time when the bassinet isn’t right for your baby anymore. It’s too small or unsafe, and your baby must start sleeping in a crib. This post will tell you how to recognize when that time has come and how to transition your baby from the bassinet to the crib.
How to Know It’s Time for Crib to Bassinet Transition
There isn’t a set time. It’s all about your baby and your bassinet. Read the instructions for your bassinet to determine what age and weight restrictions it has. If either of these has been exceeded, it is no longer safe for your baby to be in the bassinet. Most bassinets are intended for babies up to 5-6 months that weigh up to 20 pounds. Your baby can also be too big for the crib. You may notice their head, arms, and/or feet touching the edges. If your baby can roll, push up using their hands or knees, or sit up, they need the safety of a crib.
Are Bassinets Safe For All Night Sleep?
Your baby can sleep in the bassinet all night, and it can also be used for naps. Most of these beds are lightweight and easy to move from one room to the other, so they can be used at night and during the day. Just make sure you are following safe sleep practices.
Bassinet to Crib Transition
First, make sure your crib is safe. It should only contain a firm mattress and a fitted sheet. Any other sheets, blankets, pillows, sleep positioners, bumper pads, or plush toys could be a suffocation hazard.
Create a good sleeping environment for your baby with dim lights, white noise, and a room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees.
Swaddling helps them feel secure in this bigger bed. It can also help provide warmth on cooler nights.
Make sure your baby is used to their nursery. They should spend time there during the day, so it is familiar to them.
You can also make the crib smell like you, so it seems more familiar and comforting. Sleep with their sheets or swaddle before putting your baby in the crib with them.
Start a bedtime routine where you help your baby wind down about 30 minutes before you want them to go to sleep. Don’t feed them right before you put them to bed; just do something relaxing. Be sure to put them to sleep while they are drowsy but not quite asleep so they can be aware of falling asleep in the crib. You can even start having the bedtime routine in their nursery for a few days before putting them to sleep there.
Call Petite Dreamers
If you’re struggling to transition your baby to the crib or you’re just interested in learning sleep training, you’ve come to the right place. Our sleep consultants specialize in coming up with a sleep routine that will help your individual baby. Contact us to schedule a free discovery call.