Bassinets and cradles provide a small, snug and secure-feeling sleeping space for little babies who have just come into the world.
Most bassinets and cradles look incredibly charming and cute. But considering that they will be used only for the first four to six months of a baby’s life, these are more in the nature of luxury products. Not all parents feel they are absolutely essential. You can save yourself $100 to $400 by getting a full-sized crib. Having said that, bassinets and cradles are usually very highly used if you do decide to get one for yourself.
Basically bassinets and cradles are mini-cribs made to keep newborns close to their parents. They offer a safe and secure place to put the baby down to sleep. Bassinets are stationary. They are lighter than cradles and have wheels that allow you to roll them from one room to another. Cradles, on the other hand, are heavier and bulkier and most have a mechanism for rocking. They may be battery operated or manual. Cradles sit on the floor or hang from hooks.
If you decide to buy a bassinet or cradle for your baby, there are certain safety features to look for:
If bassinets are made of wicker, there should be no protruding sharp edges or points to hurt the baby.
They should have a wide base and must be sturdy.
If the cradle has wooden slats or spindles, the space between the slats should not be more than 2 3/8 inches.
A baby’s face or head can get wedged in the space between the edge of the mattress and the side of the cradle. To prevent this, use a tight fitting mattress that is not too soft.
If the bassinet has wheels, they should lock. Folding cradles and bassinets also should have locks and latches that hold the legs in place.
Since cradles can rock, they can tip to one side when the baby moves around. This is dangerous for the baby. Cradles should have rocking pins that prevent them from tipping to one side.
If the cradle hangs from a stand, tie the cradle to its base to prevent it from rocking when your infant is fast asleep. Of course, make sure that no strings are left within the reach of your baby.
In case of bassinets or cradles with hoods, make sure the hood folds back. Hoods effectively protect babies from too much sunlight. But if they don’t fold back, you may find it difficult to put your baby in after he or she falls asleep.
Do not use any kinds of blankets in the cradle or bassinet, as your baby may suffocate on bunched up sheets or blankets.
Usually bassinets and cradles are fairly basic, though some models do come with additional features to calm or soothe a baby. Most parents prefer one to the other, depending upon the use they have in mind. Never leave your baby unattended even if he is sleeping. If you keep pets, beware of a cat or a puppy curling up in the bassinet.
Before you buy one, check for the manufacturer’s weight limits.
Most cradles and bassinets come with a product registration card. Fill this out so that if the product is recalled, you will be notified.
While you may have lots of fun choosing from a number of cute, charming and colorful bassinets and cradles do not be tempted to spend a fortune on them. Your little one will soon outgrow this handy piece.
Recent Comments