If you have spent a long time planning and preparing your baby’s nursery, you will probably wonder why you need a Bassinet. Similar to a cradle, a bassinet is a small, portable Baby bed lined with fabric. This essential item is recommended for babies because it can help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

The term, Bassinet, is frequently interchanged with cribs and cradles in Europe but the essential point to note is that they are suitable for the first six months following birth. This is unlike the Moses basket which can only be used for three months.

Medical experts are clear when it comes to providing advice to new parents – babies should sleep in the same room as you for the first six months. They should never share a bed with adults or be left to fall asleep in a chair or sofa. The best place for a new baby is close to you in a bassinet.

What the experts say

While the NHS points out that cot deaths are very rare, it advises parents to place a baby on their back to sleep. As previously mentioned, this should be in the same room as you for the first six months. The Lullaby Trust is working to reduce the number of deaths attributed to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in the UK. It says babies should sleep in the same room as a parent even during the day.

The Trust states: “A large study of evidence from across Europe found that the risk of sudden infant death was significantly reduced when the infant slept in the same room, but not the same bed, as the parents.”

This advice is echoed by health visitors and the National Childbirth Trust.

The importance of bassinet portability

Because experts recommend your baby sleeps in the same room as you both day and night, a bassinet makes sense. Ideal for multi-level homes, they can easily be transported around the property. Often on wheels, they make baby sleeping arrangements effortless 24/7.

As well as providing a portable sleep solution, a bassinet can also carry baby essentials. Some, like the Snuzpod3 come with a shelf or pockets, where you can store items such as nappies, cream and wipes. This means, everything you need for your baby is always close to hand.

Never use a handed down bassinet

Politely decline any offers of a second hand bassinet, especially if it has been in the family for years. Family heirlooms are unlikely to meet current safety guidelines. Older bassinets can present hazards in a number of ways, including suffocation risks. Some older style bassinets may include legs that can give way or slats that are unevenly spaced.

Where to buy a bassinet

We supply bassinets, cribs and Moses Baskets to suit every parent and baby. Our beautiful nursery range includes bassinets that can be safely customised to meet your needs. Stylish, portable and safe, they are a must-buy for any parent who wants to keep their baby close.