If you’re a new parent, chances are you’re looking for ways how to get your baby to sleep in bassinet. This can be a difficult task, as newborns often won’t sleep in anything other than their mothers’ arms.
However, with a little bit of patience and some of these tips, you can get your baby to sleep soundly in the bassinet!
Is It Safe for Babies to Sleep in a Bassinet?
If you’re a new parent, you may be wondering if it’s safe for your baby to sleep in a bassinet. Yes, it is perfectly safe for your baby to sleep in a bassinet. In fact, bassinets are often recommended by doctors and baby experts as a safe place for newborns to sleep.
Bassinets are great for a baby’s first few months because they provide a safe, comfortable, and convenient place for them to sleep. Additionally, bassinets are often smaller and lighter than cribs, making them easy to move from room to room.
Babies sleep more soundly when they are in a bassinet. Some babies find falling asleep in a bassinet easier compared to other places. As always, following safe sleep guidelines is best, especially if you let your newborn baby sleep in a bassinet.
However, some parents find that their baby won’t sleep in a bassinet. There might be a few reasons behind this, but the most common ones include the following:
Baby Is Not Used To Sleeping in a Bassinet
One of the main reasons your baby may not be sleeping in their bassinet is that they’re simply not used to it. If you’ve only recently started using a bassinet, it’s likely that your baby is still getting used to the idea of sleeping in one.
Or, there is a possibility that you have an overtired baby. An overtired newborn baby needs a good sleep routine.
Good sleep habits can help a baby fall asleep quickly and stay asleep more effectively. If you have a fussy baby, try using a bassinet until the baby falls asleep.
Try putting your baby down for naps in their bassinet during the day so they can get used to sleeping in it.
Additionally, make sure that the bassinet is comfortable and familiar by using the same bedding and blankets that you use for your baby’s crib.
The Bassinet Is Not Comfortable
Another reason why your baby may not be sleeping in their bassinet is that it’s simply not comfortable. If the bassinet is too hard, too soft, or has uncomfortable bedding, your baby will likely fuss and cry.
To ensure that your baby is comfortable in their bassinet, use firm, comfortable bedding.
Additionally, you can use a baby mattress pad or a thin layer of foam to make the bassinet more comfortable. A baby’s delicate skin will not do well in a bassinet that is not made of comfortable material.
The Bassinet Is Too Big or Too Small
If the bassinet is too big or too small, it can make your baby uncomfortable and claustrophobic. An ill-fitting bassinet can make it difficult for your baby to move around and get comfortable.
To ensure that the bassinet is the perfect size for your baby, make sure to measure the dimensions of the bassinet before purchasing it. Additionally, you should provide enough space in the bassinet for your baby to move around and stretch out.
The Bassinet Is Not Secure
If the bassinet is not secure, it can make your baby feel unsafe. Make sure the bassinet is sturdy and not wobbly.
Invest in a bassinet that has a locking mechanism to keep it from moving. This way, you can be sure that your baby is safe and secure while sleeping.
The Bassinet Is Too Hot or Too Cold
If the bassinet is too hot or too cold, it will be uncomfortable for your baby to sleep in. Be sure to check the temperature of the room before putting your baby down to sleep.
You can also invest in a baby monitor with a temperature display to keep an eye on the bassinet’s temperature. Even though this might cost more money, it’s worth it to ensure that your baby is comfortable.
The Bassinet Is Too Hard or Too Soft
If the bassinet is too hard or too soft, it can make it difficult for your baby to sleep. If you notice that your baby is struggling to sleep in the bassinet, try adjusting the mattress.
Try using a bassinet with a softer mattress. If you’re using a baby monitor, you can also move it closer to your baby so you can hear them if they stir at night.
The Room Is Too Bright or Too Dark
If the room is too bright or too dark, it can be difficult for your baby to sleep. If you notice that your baby is having trouble sleeping in the bassinet, try adjusting the light in the room.
This might mean closing the curtains or blinds to make the room darker or turning on a nightlight to make it brighter.
The Room Is Too Noisy
If the room is too noisy, it can be difficult for your baby to sleep. If you notice that your baby is having trouble sleeping in the bassinet, try adjusting the noise level in the room.
This can be done by turning off any electronics that may be making noise, such as a television or music player. You may also want to consider using a white noise machine to help drown out any other noises in the room.
10 Ways To Get a Baby to Sleep in a Bassinet
While it can be tempting just to let baby sleep in your bed, it’s important to make sure they get used to sleeping in their bassinet. Here are 10 tips to help make the transition a smooth one:
1. Establish a Bedtime Routine
A set bedtime routine will signal to baby that it’s time to wind down for the night.
Try incorporating some or all of the following into your baby’s bedtime routine:
- Give baby a bath
- Read a story together
- Sing a lullaby
- Rock baby in your arms
2. Keep the Bassinet Close to Your Bed
If baby is close to you, they’ll feel more comfortable and secure. You can also try putting the bassinet right next to your bed so baby can see and hear you.
3. Put Baby Down Drowsy but Awake
You don’t want to put babies down asleep because they may wake up and not know how to get back to sleep on their own. Instead, put your baby down when they’re drowsy but still awake. This will teach them how to fall asleep on their own.
4. Use a Nightlight or Sound Machine
The soft light from a nightlight can help babies feel more comfortable in their new surroundings. A sound machine can also help a baby sleep by providing some white noise.
5. Keep the Room Cool and Well Ventilated
Another way to help them sleep in a bassinet is to make sure the room is cool and well ventilated. This will help them stay comfortable and relaxed.
6. Limit Stimulation Before Bedtime
It’s important to limit stimulation before bedtime so your baby can calm down and prepare for sleep. Try turning off the television and avoiding any loud noises in the hours leading up to bedtime.
7. Swaddle Baby
Swaddling baby can help them feel secure and warm, two important things for sleep. If you need help with how to swaddle, there are plenty of tutorials online, or you can ask your pediatrician for help.
8. Use a Pacifier
A pacifier can help babies self-soothe and fall asleep on their own. If you’re worried about babies becoming dependent on the pacifier, you can always wean them off once they’re a little older.
9. Give Baby Time to Adjust
It’s important to give your baby time to adjust to sleeping in a bassinet. It may take a few nights (or even a week or two) for your baby to get used to it. Be patient and keep up with your bedtime routine.
10. Make Sure the Bassinet is Safe
Before putting the baby in the bassinet, ensure it meets all safety standards. The bassinet should have a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheets. It should also be free of pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals. This way, you can be sure the baby is safe and comfortable while they sleep.
While these tips may sound like a lot of work, they’ll be worth it when you see your baby sleeping soundly in their bassinet.
So don’t give up, and keep trying until you find what works for you and your baby. You will be able to get baby to sleep in the bassinet in no time!
What Are the Advantages of Having Your Baby Sleep in a Bassinet?
Bassinets are baby beds that are smaller and lower to the ground than a regular crib.
They usually have higher sides to keep the baby safe, and some even come with rocking or gliding motions to soothe the baby to sleep. There are several advantages of putting a baby in a bassinet instead of a crib, at least for the first few months.
These benefits include the following:
1. Bassinets Keep Baby Close to You
Bassinets are designed for the baby to sleep next to your bed. This is important in those early weeks and months when baby wakes up frequently throughout the night for feedings or to be held. When your baby is close by, you can simply reach over and pick her up without having to get out of bed, which can be a huge advantage when you’re sleep-deprived!
2. Bassinets Take Up Less Space
Bassinets are much smaller than cribs, so they take up less space in your room. This can be a big advantage if you have a small bedroom or want to keep your baby’s nursery separate from your own bedroom.
3. Bassinets Are More Portable
Since bassinets are smaller and lighter than cribs, they’re also more portable. This means you can easily move your baby’s bassinet from your room to another or even take it with you when you travel. This can be helpful if the baby has difficulty sleeping in a new environment.
4. Bassinets Are Often Cheaper Than Cribs
Bassinets are typically less expensive than cribs, so they can be a good option if you’re on a budget. However, remember that you may only use a bassinet for a few months, while you will likely use a crib for several years.
5. Bassinets May Help Baby Sleep Better
Since bassinets keep your baby close to you, they may sleep better in a bassinet than in a crib. Studies have shown that babies who sleep in bassinets have shorter periods of wakefulness and spend more time in deep sleep than in cribs.
6. Bassinets May Help Baby Sleep Longer
Babies who sleep in bassinets also tend to sleep for longer stretches at night than babies who sleep in cribs. So if you’re hoping to get the baby to sleep through the night, a bassinet may be a good option.
7. Bassinets May Reduce the Risk of SIDS
Babies who sleep in bassinets also have a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than babies who sleep in cribs. Since bassinets keep your baby close to you, it’s easier to monitor your baby’s breathing and signs of distress.
8. Bassinets May Help Baby Bond With You
Babies who sleep in bassinets often develop a stronger bond with their parents than babies who sleep in cribs. This may be because your baby can see and hear you more easily and because you can pick them up and hold her more often when she’s sleeping in a bassinet.
9. Bassinets May Help Baby Feel More Secure
Since bassinets are smaller and lower to the ground than cribs, they can make your baby feel more secure. This may help them sleep better and reduce the risk of them waking up frequently throughout the night.
10. Bassinets May Help baby Feel Less Stressed
Babies who sleep in bassinets often have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than babies who sleep in cribs. This may be because bassinets provide a more nurturing and calming environment for them
If you’re considering using a bassinet for your baby, keep these advantages in mind. And if you’re still not sure whether a bassinet or a crib is right for you, talk to your baby’s doctor or a certified baby sleep consultant.
They can help you make the best decision for your baby’s individual needs.
Conclusion
If you are wondering why your baby won’t sleep in a bassinet, don’t worry, you are not alone. Many parents go through this phase. Luckily, there are some things you can do to help them sleep in a bassinet more easily.
Follow the tips above so that baby can get the best sleep possible. Learning how to get a newborn to sleep in a bassinet is important for both the baby and the parents. With a little patience and these tips, your baby will be sleeping soundly in no time.
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