How to Choose the Right Baby Bassinet or Moses Basket
When you have a newborn, you want to keep your baby close. You may ask yourself, which is better for my newborn – a baby bassinet or Moses basket? Which one is safer? How do I know which one is right for my baby? As moms ourselves we know what it's like being overwhelmed with all these questions, so we decided to do the research for you.
Just like the rest of us, babies like to sleep, and they need a lot of it! Safe sleep experts recommend that babies sleep in the same room with parents for the first six months, and that doing so can actually decrease the risk of SIDS by 50 percent.
These statistics make it important for you to choose the right baby bassinet. One that is not only comfortable, but safe for your baby. We have put together this guide to provide you with tips that can help you find the perfect bassinet for you and your baby.
THINGS TO ASK WHEN BUYING A BABY BASSINET/BASKET?
There are many things to consider when looking for a place to rest your little one. Let’s walk through what you should know when making your buying decision.
WHAT IS YOUR BABY’S WEIGHT & HEIGHT?
Most bassinets/baskets have a weight limit of 15 to 20 pounds. Your baby may outgrow this by height/size before they exceed the weight limit. To help prevent and avoid any falls, do not use baskets once infant is able to push up onto her/his hands and knees or reaches the recommended maximum weight, whichever comes first.
Plum + Sparrow Moses baskets are recommended for use until your baby is 3-4 months, 20 lbs. and/or when baby can roll over, push up or crawl. Whichever limit comes first.
BABY BASKET/BASSINET SAFETY STANDARDS
Be aware that infants can suffocate in gaps between an extra pad and the side of the Moses basket. You should NEVER add a pillow, extra padding, mattress, bumper pads or comforter. Our mattress pads, sheets and loungers have been specifically safety tested for use in our moses baskets. Use ONLY the pad and/or bedding provided and sold by Plum + Sparrow. Use only the sheet provided with the pad. DO NOT use the pad/bedding with any other Moses basket or bassinet. Pad is designed to fit the dimensions of your basket.
It is recommended by pediatricians that all healthy infants be placed on their backs to sleep TO REDUCE THE RISK OF SIDS, unless otherwise advised by your physician. The American Academy Of Pediatrics recommends that infants sleep on their backs, positioned on a firm, empty surface. This surface should not contain soft objects, toys, pillows, or loose bedding.
Learn what parents and caregivers can do to help babies sleep safely by visiting CDC’s Safe Sleep Area for Babies.
WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO PLACE IT?
BASKETS should ALWAYS be placed on a firm and flat surface or in a moses basket stand. DO NOT place it on tables, near stairs, or on any elevated surfaces. It is recommended to place the handles of the basket in an outward position when baby is inside.
KEEP BASKET AWAY from ALL heaters, fires/flames, stoves, fireplaces, campfires, open windows, water (running or standing), stairs, window blinds, and ANY and ALL other hazards which could cause injury.
MOBILITY IS A PRIORITY
One benefit of Plum+Sparrow’s bassinet/baby basket is the smaller size and weight, making it easier to move around the house, outside in the yard, on the beach, at a park or anywhere you to ensure your baby has a safe place to sleep or lounge.
Some important things to remember when you go mobile with your little one –
- DO NOT move/carry the basket with your baby inside of it. It is recommended that you remove your baby first.
- DO NOT attach toys or place toys with strings or cords in or around the basket to avoid strangulation or choking.
- DO NOT allow pets and/or other children to climb into the basket while your baby is inside.
- AVOID the use of plastic bags inside the basket.
- DO NOT leave infant unattended.
HOW LONG CAN A BABY SLEEP IN A BASSINET/BASKET?
There are many questions that come up when you’re considering buying a bassinet or Moses basket. It’s crucial you have the right information to make an informed decision.
Plum+Sparrow has you covered Mama! We did the research, so you don’t have to. Here are the things you need to know…
ARE MOSES BASKETS SAFE?
The American Academy of Pediatrics state that bassinets are safe for newborns, as long as the product conforms to the safety standards and general performance requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Here is what you need to know according to the governing bodies guidelines:
- Must have enclosed openings to prevent entrapment
- Must be structurally sufficient to hold the baby
- Must be stable
- The sides must be high enough to prevent falls
- Must not have small parts and unintentional folding requirements
Plum+Sparrow has you covered! Our baskets are handwoven with leather wrapped handles that are 30” in length & 15” in width, making them functional and safe.
CAN A BABY SLEEP IN A MOSES BASKET OVERNIGHT?
Absolutely! Plum+Sparrow’s baskets are safe for overnight sleep, as long as they are in the same room as parents and are placed in a safe place as mentioned above.
ARE MOSES BASKETS SIDS SAFE?
The short answer is YES! We ensure that we carry and recommend products that put your mind at ease knowing you have a safe place for your precious little one – in the house or on-the-go!
The American Academy of Pediatrics includes Moses baskets as a safe sleep product that protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
The benefit of close contact with your little one is important during the first six months. Safe sleep experts recommend that babies sleep in the same room with parents for the first six (6) months. Plum+Sparrow’s baskets allow your infant to have that much needed bonding time with Mama while resting in their own safe little space at home or on-the-go.
SHOP BY STYLE
Now that we’ve covered safety, it’s time to choose your style! Plum+Sparrow allows you to choose your STYLE – choose from bright & bold, modern or earthy designs.
Happy Baby = Happy Mama - when you are able to take care of yourself you are a happier mom which leads to a happier baby! Plum+Sparrow has you covered with the mobile comfort modern Mamas need to ensure you & your little one feel secure and happy all day, anywhere you go! Our baskets meet ALL safety standards and we ALWAYS stay up to date on current professional guidelines to give you the peace of mind knowing your little one can sleep or play safely where you are.
PLUM+SPARROW HELPS YOU BE A HAPPIER MAMA
Being a new mama is tiring, stressful, anxious and leaves you feeling like you have no time to take care of yourself. As working mamas, ourselves, always on the go we know how overwhelming motherhood can be. We know how little time you have as a new mama. That is why we do the research on your behalf, so you have the info needed to ensure the safety of your little one.
We not only carry the safest baby products for mamas on the go, we have the resources to put your mind at ease and create a community of mamas to help you feel supported.
Plum+Sparrow provides you a feeling of empowerment, knowing you are doing your very best for your baby!