Bassinets are a great way to keep your newborn close to you at night, but they're not meant to be used forever. As your baby grows and develops, you'll need to transition them to a crib.

We have put together a helpful guide with a few things to consider when deciding when to make the switch.

Can a baby sleep in a crib right away?

Yes, a baby can sleep in a crib right away. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies sleep in a crib or bassinet for the first year of life. This helps to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). However, some parents choose to have their newborns sleep in a bassinet for the first few weeks or months. This is because bassinets are smaller and more portable, making it easier to keep the baby close to the bed.

When to transition baby to crib:

• Baby's age: Most babies transition to a crib between 4 and 6 months old. However, every baby is different, so it's important to watch for signs that they're ready.
• Baby's size: Bassinets have weight and height limits, so you'll need to move your baby to a crib when they outgrow their bassinet.
• Baby's development: If your baby can roll over, sit up, or push up on their hands and knees, it's time to move them to a crib. These milestones indicate that your baby is becoming more mobile, and they're at risk of falling out of their bassinet.

Here are some tips for making the transition to a crib as smooth as possible.

How to help your baby transition to crib:

• Start by introducing the crib to your baby before you make the switch. Put them down in the crib for naps or playtime during the day. This will help them get used to the new space.
• Make the crib as comfortable as possible. Use a firm mattress and a fitted sheet. Don't add any pillows or a blanket as these pose a suffocation risk. (Please follow AAP guidelines for safe sleeping with a blanket)
• Keep the crib in your room for the first few nights. This will help your baby feel more secure. Once they're adjusted to the crib, you can move it to their own room.
• Be patient. It may take some time for your baby to adjust to sleeping in a crib. Be consistent with your bedtime routine and offer comfort when needed.

If you have any concerns about transitioning your baby to a crib, talk to your pediatrician. They can offer guidance and support.

Here are some additional tips:

• Start the transition process a few weeks before you plan to move your baby to their crib. This will give them time to get used to the new space and routine.
• Make the crib look and feel familiar. Use the same bedding and sleep accessories that you've been using in the bassinet. You can also put a familiar object in the crib, such as a stuffed animal or lovey.
• Use a sound machine. Sound machines that include white noise can stay with your baby for years. They are a great tool to prevent a baby from waking from any external noises in your space.
• Establish a bedtime routine. This will help your baby wind down and prepare for sleep. The routine can include a bath, a story, and a lullaby.
• Be patient and consistent. It may take some time for your baby to adjust to sleeping in a crib. Don't get discouraged if they wake up more often or have trouble falling asleep at first. Just keep up with the bedtime routine and offer comfort when needed.

In Conclusion

With a little planning and patience, the transition to a crib can be a smooth and successful experience for both you and your baby. Start gradually and slowly build on how much a baby is sleeping in the crib. Remember to follow a schedule and pattern that works best for your baby, transition when you are ready. Babies typically sleep better in their own space, so when you feel comfortable, get started, be patient, and give it a try!

We hope our guide helped answer any questions you had about bassinets and cribs. If you still have questions about bassinets, cribs or sheets to fit your crib, please reach out to us and we will be happy to answer them!

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