How Long Can a Baby Sleep in a Bassinet?

9 de septiembre de 2025

Emily Gaylor

Congrats on your new mini sidekick! Along with the joy (and bone-deep exhaustion), you’re probably learning a whole new world of baby gear jargon, feeding schedules, and sleep setups. Most newborns start their nights in a bassinet: it’s snuggly, compact, and keeps your baby close by for overnight cluster feeding.

But how long can your baby actually sleep in a bassinet? The answer ultimately depends on your little one's age, size, and developmental readiness. But the short version is this: bassinets are a short-term solution, usually safe until about 4–6 months. After that, it’s time to move on to a crib.

We’ll cover what makes a bassinet worth it, how long your baby can hang out in one before outgrowing it, and the dead-giveaway signs it’s time to move to the crib. (So you can stop Googling at 2 a.m. and actually get some sleep. Fingers crossed.)

What Is a Bassinet and How Long Can a Baby Use One?

A bassinet is a small, portable bed designed just for newborns. It's space-saving, cozy, and conveniently located right next to your bed so you can reach over without stumbling down the hall. Most families love having one during the newborn stage because it makes those constant feedings and middle-of-the-night soothing sessions so much easier. Calming your fussy baby without getting out of bed? Yes, please.

So, how long can your baby actually sleep in a bassinet? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the general guideline is up to about 4–6 months of age. The exact timing depends on your baby’s growth and development:

Weight and size: Most bassinets max out by about 20 pounds. Always check your model’s specific guidelines.
Mobility: Rolling, pushing up, or showing signs of sitting = the bassinet days are officially over, even if your baby hasn’t hit the weight limit yet.
Comfort: Some babies simply outgrow the snug space sooner and sleep better once they have the room to stretch out in a crib.

Think of the bassinet as a short-term but super useful tool. They're perfect for the fourth trimester, but not built for the long haul. When your baby starts showing signs they’re ready, moving to the crib is the natural next step.

Signs It’s Time to Transition From Bassinet to Crib

Wondering if your baby has officially outgrown their bassinet? Here are the biggest giveaways:

Rolling over: Once your baby starts mastering the roll over, the bassinet is no longer safe.
Push-ups and sit-ups: If they’re practicing mini workouts—pushing up on hands, scooting, or trying to sit—they need more space (and sturdier walls).
Over the limit: Most bassinets cap out around 15–20 pounds. Hitting that weight is a built-in signal to upgrade.
Carry-on vibes: If your baby looks like they’re sleeping in a too-small suitcase, they’re ready for crib life.

Bottom line: bassinets are magic for those newborn months, but once mobility or size kicks in, a crib is the safer, roomier choice.

Benefits of Transitioning to a Crib

It’s totally normal to feel a little anxious about leaving the bassinet stage behind—any change to your baby’s sleep setup feels like a big deal. But moving your little one into a crib isn’t just about safety (though that's the priority). It includes plenty of perks for both baby and you:

More space = better sleep: Cribs give babies the room to roll, stretch, and starfishing to their heart’s content.
Made to last: A crib isn’t just for now—it can often carry your kiddo through toddlerhood (and beyond if it converts).
Routine reset: A new sleep space is the perfect time to double down on those bedtime rituals that signal “it’s time to wind down.”

Think of it less as “losing” the bassinet and more as graduating to a bigger, safer space where everyone can (hopefully) get a little more rest.

Tips for Making the Transition Smoother

Moving from bassinet to crib is a milestone, but it doesn’t have to be a battle. These strategies can help ease the shift:

Start small with naps: Introduce the crib during daytime sleep. Baby gets used to the new space in shorter, low-pressure bursts, and nighttime feels less intimidating.
Keep bedtime rituals consistent: Bath, book, lullaby—whatever signals sleep in your house should stay the same. Familiar routines reassure your baby no matter where they’re snoozing.
Use a baby monitor for peace of mind: Being able to see and hear your little one helps you relax, and it keeps baby from sensing your anxiety about the change.
Take it at your baby’s pace: Some kids settle into the crib right away, others need more time. If things get rocky, it’s okay to pause and try again in a week or two.

Transitioning shouldn't be about a rigid timeline. It's about matching your baby’s readiness with safe sleep practices, and cutting yourself a little slack in the process.

When Should Your Baby Move to Their Own Room?

Now that you've said goodbye to the bassinet, you might wonder: when is the right time for baby to move into their own nursery?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents—but on a separate, safe sleep surface—for at least the first six months, and ideally for the first year. Room-sharing has been shown to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and makes it easier for nighttime feeding and comfort.

That said, every family’s situation is different. Here are a few signs your baby might be ready for their own room:

Sleeping longer stretches: If your baby is starting to sleep through the night (or close to it), they may not need to be right next to you.
Crib transition complete: Many families make the switch to the nursery at the same time they move baby out of the bassinet and into a crib.
Family sleep quality: If you or your baby are waking each other up with every little sound, moving them into their own room can actually improve sleep for everyone.

Remember: this milestone isn’t just about logistics—it’s also about emotions! It can feel bittersweet to move your baby down the hall, but with a great monitor and a white noise machine, you’ll both adjust more smoothly than you might expect.

Safe Sleep Guidelines for Cribs and Bassinets

No matter where your baby sleeps, the same safe sleep rules apply. These guidelines, recommended by the AAP and NIH, are proven to reduce sleep-related risks:

Back to sleep, every time: Always place your baby on their back for naps and nighttime sleep until they can roll both ways on their own.
Keep the sleep space bare: No pillows, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals—just a firm mattress with a snug fitted sheet.
Choose the right mattress: Make sure the mattress fits tightly within the crib or bassinet frame, with no gaps along the edges.
Room-share without bed-sharing: Keep your baby’s bassinet or crib in your room for at least the first six months, ideally the first year.
Avoid overheating: Dress baby in light, breathable layers or a wearable sleep sack instead of using blankets.
Pacifier perks: Offering a pacifier at naps and bedtime can help reduce SIDS risk (wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing one).
No smoke exposure: Ensure your baby’s environment is smoke-free—this includes second- and third-hand smoke.

Following these simple steps helps create a safe sleep environment, whether your baby is still snoozing in their bassinet or stretching out in their crib.

FAQs About Bassinets and Crib Transitions

How long can my baby safely sleep in a bassinet?
Most babies can sleep in a bassinet until about 4–6 months of age, or until they hit the bassinet’s weight limit (usually 15–20 pounds) or start rolling over. Once your little one becomes more mobile, it’s time for a crib.

Can a baby sleep in a bassinet overnight?
Yes—bassinets designed for safe sleep are approved for overnight use. Always follow safe sleep guidelines: place baby on their back, use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet, and keep the sleep space bare.

Learn more: How to Create a Safe Sleep Environment for Your Baby

When should I move my baby from a bassinet to a crib?
Transition when your baby starts rolling, pushing up, or sitting, or once they’ve reached the bassinet’s size or weight limit. Comfort matters too—if they seem cramped, it’s time.

Do I need both a crib and a bassinet?
Not necessarily. Some parents skip the bassinet and start with a crib, while others find a bassinet makes those early months easier. Both are safe options; it depends on your space, budget, and lifestyle.

Can I use my stroller bassinet for overnight sleep?
Not unless the manufacturer clearly says it’s approved for overnight use. Most stroller bassinets are designed for supervised naps, not long nighttime stretches. For safe overnight sleep, stick to a crib or bassinet certified for it.

Shop: Strollers with Bassinet Options

What if my baby seems uncomfortable in the bassinet?
If your baby looks cramped, is waking more often, or has outgrown the snug space, it may be time to move to a crib, even if they’re under the weight limit. Babies often sleep better once they have more room to stretch.

Is it safe for my baby to nap in a bassinet during the day?
Yes. Bassinets are safe for naps as long as you follow the same safe sleep rules: back to sleep, firm mattress, fitted sheet, and no extras.

Can twins share a bassinet?
Even twins need their personal space! Each baby should have their own crib or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress, a fitted sheet, and nothing else—no pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals allowed.

Shop: Best Cribs for Twins

How do I know if my bassinet is safe?
Look for JPMA or ASTM certification, check that the mattress fits snugly with no gaps, and confirm the bassinet is marketed for overnight sleep. Avoid older or heavily used hand-me-downs unless you can verify they meet current safety standards.

Why should you trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions?

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding baby gear you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!