What should my Newborn Sleep in?

 

One of the biggest joys of expecting a baby is getting the baby nursery ready so that your child gets the best possible sleep. Keep reading our article to find out more about what bedding you need for your new baby.

 

Bassinet vs Crib

With all the different kinds of baby equipment on the market, choosing the right gear that you need for your baby can be quite an overwhelming experience. In the first months of life, babies spend an enormous amount of time sleeping. Therefore, choosing what your baby will sleep in is a very important decision. Safety is also a crucial factor to consider. For a newborn, you can choose either a crib or a bassinet. The main difference between the two is the size. Cribs are much larger and take up more space than a bassinet. Bassinets can only be used up to the age of six months whereas cribs can be used for much longer. Cribs are more expensive, but you get more value for your money because they last longer. Bassinets are more portable and usually can be moved from one room to the other. They are easier to use for parents since the height is adjustable and you don’t have to lean over a real rail to put your baby down.

 

Factors to Consider

 

The first question you need to ask yourself is where your baby will sleep in your house? Experts recommend that babies sleep near their parents, but in a separate sleeping space. If your bedroom isn’t very big, then a bassinet is a good choice for the first six months. However, even if space is not an issue for you, you might prefer to go with a bassinet due to their portability. That way, you can move your baby to different rooms and keep him or her near you during naps in the daytime. Secondly, you need to think about the price. Bassinets cost less and might be a good solution if you’re starting out with a low budget. You’ll still need a crib later on but starting out with a bassinet will allow you to spread out your expenses. Bassinets are easier to use and that’s another thing you need to consider, especially if you’re recovering from a difficult childbirth. Since bassinets have lower sides, it makes it much easier to pick up and put down your baby without having to bend over. Finally, you might choose a bassinet just because you like the way they look. Compared to bare cribs, bassinets look cozier and more comfortable.

 

Safety First

 

Regardless of whether you choose a bassinet or a crib, you need to make sure that your newborn’s bed meets the most recent safety standards, especially if you opt for a used crib or bassinet. The mattress should be flat, firm and fit snugly inside the bed. There should be no space or gaps between the edge of the bed and the mattress to avoid your baby’s head getting stuck. If the bed has bars, they should be smooth, securely fixed and they should be no more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart. The mobile parts must work properly and smoothly and allow no possibility for fingers to get trapped. The bed should be kept away from cords or drapes to avoid any risk of strangulation. The baby should be placed on his or her back and you should never use any pillows, cushions or sleep positioners. Whether new or used, check that the bed is in good condition and make sure that you have properly followed the assembly instructions and that all the hardware is tightened.