A bassinet is one of the first pieces of furniture your newborn will use, and choosing the right one sets the foundation for safe, comfortable early sleep. As compact, portable, and close-to-parent sleep solutions, bassinets help ease those late‑night feeds and provide peace of mind. Here’s your complete bassinet buying guide, covering key features, safety considerations, and smart accessories to help you prepare for your baby’s arrival.
1. Safety First: Standards & Placement
Ensure any bassinet you choose complies with the latest safety standards (e.g., JPMA, Australian AS/NZS regulations). Key features include:
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A firm, well‑fitting mattress with a waterproof protector
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A sturdy base with locking mechanisms (if mobile)
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Stable materials with no loose parts
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Breathable mesh sides for airflow and visibility
Try the 2-in-1 Tidy Bassinet, serving as both a bassinet and a change station or storage area.
Placement matters: keep the bassinet in your room for the first 3–6 months to reduce the risk of SIDS and support easy access. Avoid rugs or cords near the sleep surface to ensure safety.
2. Choose the Right Style & Size
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Compact/Cot-style bassinets are lightweight and great for shared rooms or travel
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Bedside bassinets sit close to your bed, facilitating safe co‑sleeping and easier nighttime feeding
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Portable or foldable designs are ideal if you frequently travel or move around your home
Measure your space in advance to ensure it fits beside the bed or in your nursery without crowding the room.
3. Practical Features to Look For
A well-designed bassinet should support your daily routines:
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Adjustable height to match your bed for bedside models
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Breathable mesh sides for comfort and visibility
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Easy-to-remove, washable liner for spills and accidents
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Wheels with locks for smooth mobility and stability
Boori’s modest bassinets include fitted mattress protectors and jersey sheets, ensuring the essentials are covered.
4. Mattress & Linens
A firm, snug-fitting mattress or sleeper pad is crucial. Add a high-quality protector to guard against leaks, and choose soft, breathable jersey or cotton sheets. Avoid loose blankets or bumpers to reduce risks.
Boori’s range offers:
These essentials help establish a safe and comfortable sleep setup.
5. Mobility & Convenience
For parents on the move:
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Lightweight bassinets are easy to carry around the house
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Fold-down frames are perfect for travel or storing out of season
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Wheels simplify moving the bassinet from room to room
However, ensure wheel locks are reliable and the structure remains stable.
6. Supportive Accessories
A few well‑chosen items can enhance comfort and ease effort:
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Safe swaddles or sleep sacks, eliminating loose blankets
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A gentle night light for feeding and checking
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A bassinet stand or side table for essentials like diapers and wipes
Avoid overcrowding the sleep area—safety is paramount.
7. When to Transition
Most babies outgrow bassinets between 4–6 months or when they begin rolling or pushing up. Watch for milestones such as:
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Reaching or pushing on the bassinet sides
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Discovering hands/arms and trying to push up
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Becoming too tall or heavy for the weight limit
At this stage, transitioning to a cot with a fitted sheet and firm mattress is the next step.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a bassinet isn’t just about space—it's about creating a safe, practical and comfortable first sleeping environment for your baby. With the right design, breathable materials, and essential accessories, a bassinet becomes the foundation for restful nights and peaceful parenting.
Explore Boori’s bassinets and essential bedding collection to find safe, stylish solutions that support your early weeks with baby.
