One of the most important decisions new parents will make is what type of sleeping arrangement to buy for their child. Some people say that bassinets are better because they’re more portable and lightweight, both during the day and while travelling, but others argue that since cribs can be converted into toddler beds and full-size beds later on in life, they should be the better choice. Which one is best for your baby? Let’s explore and find out!
What is a crib?
A crib is a sturdy rectangular box that acts as baby’s bed. It can be made of plastic or wood, and comes with slats on the sides to allow air to flow in and baby to breathe, but also prevent him from rolling off of it.
What is a bassinet?
A bassinet is a small bed with tall sides, often wheeled. They are typically used during the first 6-8 months of a baby’s life. A bassinet is also known as a ‘Moses Basket’.
Pros and cons of cribs
The advantages of cribs include:
- They have a longer lifespan (can be used by baby until they are 2 or 3 years old)
- Some cribs can be converted to beds
The disadvantages of cribs include:
- They take up more space
- They can be more expensive
Pros and cons of bassinets
The advantages of bassinets include:
- They are portable
- They take up less space
- They are easier to lean over to get to baby
The disadvantages of bassinets include:
- They have weight limits
- They can only be used for around the first 6-8 months of baby’s life
Should you choose a crib or a bassinet?
In the end, you’ll have to choose between a crib or a bassinet. Both have their pros and cons, but it is ultimately up to your personal preferences and baby’s needs.
It is recommended that newborns sleep in the same room as their parents, so space in your bedroom may be an issue and you may only be able to fit in a bassinet.
Although cribs are more expensive than bassinets, you will still need to get a crib at some point anyway when baby grows out of their bassinet. However, using a bassinet for the first few months of life can give you the time you need to save up for a crib.
If you have a physical disability or injury then a bassinet can make accessing your child easier. A bassinet can also be moved from room to room with ease because it is portable.
Finally, some parents prefer bassinets because it makes their baby look cosier and more comfortable. Because cribs are larger, newborns (especially premature babies) can appear dwarfed by the sheer size of it.
Conclusion
Both bassinets and cribs have their pros and cons, but it’s up to your personal preferences and baby’s needs. Luckily, there are a variety of products out there that can help you make this decision! Bassinet companies like Koala Baby offer lightweight models with mesh sides for breathability (and easy access from all angles). Crib manufacturers such as American Dream Products sell convertible crib-to-bed kits so babies can enjoy the same bed throughout their entire childhood. There is no right or wrong answer here-it just comes down to what works best in your home environment and works for you.