Should My Baby Nap in Crib or Bassinet During the Day

Unsure where your baby should nap during the day? Discover if cribs or bassinets are better for a safe, comfortable, and peaceful daytime nap!

There I was, a mom of two munchkins, not a wink of sleep, with a bassinet in one hand and a crib in the other. Does this sound familiar? When my kids were little, I, too, wondered where they should nap during the day. I had a beautiful crib waiting in the nursery. Still, I wondered about the cozier, smaller bassinet for those sunny afternoon naps.

I’m here to share my experience with you.

This article will cover the following:

• What’s a good nap?
• Crib or Bassinet for Daytime Naps?
• Tips for Transitioning From Bassinet to Crib
• Conclusion

Let’s start by reviewing what you should expect from a daytime nap.

Seeking for the perfect baby crib, but you’re unsure where to start? Check out this list I created of the best baby cribs to buy.

What Is the Significance of a Good Nap?

With my first baby, I thought a nap was a nap. But oh boy, was I wrong! A good nap for our little ones is like that first sip of morning coffee for us. It’s rejuvenating, it’s refreshing, and it’s necessary. They’re not just filling time between feedings, diaper changes, and those cute giggles.

The right nap spot can mean the difference between a peaceful siesta and a catnap that ends before you’ve even had time to sneak in a shower.

Research backs this up, too, moms and dads. Studies have shown that babies who nap well during the day sleep better at night.

A baby’s sleeping spot is more than a cute part of room decor. It’s a mini sanctuary where the magic happens. It should be safe, cozy, and peaceful. That’s where the crib and bassinet come into play. Both offer unique comforts.

My firstborn loved his roomy crib, stretching out like a little starfish. On the other hand, my little girl felt secure and snug in her bassinet, like it was giving her a gentle hug.

Studies confirm that the right sleep environment promotes longer, quality sleep. That means happier babies and, let’s admit it, saner parents. So, when choosing between a crib and a bassinet for daytime naps, think about which will offer the best mini sleep haven for your baby.

Did you know our tiny human’s sleep differs between day and night? Understanding this difference is crucial to finding the best sleeping spot for daytime naps.

How Does Daytime Nap Differ from Nighttime Sleep for Babies?

• Daytime Nap: Babies tend to have shorter, more fragmented sleep during the day. It helps our babies to process all the new things they’re learning and experiencing. The room doesn’t need to be pitch black. Some natural light can be beneficial, almost like a gentle reminder that it’s still day. And a bit of background noise is okay too.
• Nighttime Sleep: On the other hand, sleep is like a marathon, longer stretches of deep, restful sleep. That sleep is important for growth and development. Our babies need a darker, quieter environment to signal that it’s time for a long rest. I found blackout blinds a game-changer for my kids’ night sleep.

I noticed this with my two little munchkins. Daytime naps were more about recharging their batteries for the next play session, while nighttime sleep was their deep dive into dreamland.

But remember, every baby is unique! My oldest could sleep through a circus performance, while my youngest wakes up if a pin drops.

Now, onto the burning question – crib or bassinet for daytime naps?

Finding the Sweet Spot: Crib or Bassinet for Daytime Naps?

Deciding where your baby should nap during the day is like finding the perfect avocado at the supermarket. On one side is the majestic crib, king of durability. On the other is the cozy bassinet, perfect for those early days in a baby’s life. Each has its charm, but how do we make the best choice?

Let’s start by looking at the benefits of each sleeping arrangement.

Crib vs. Bassinet Benefits

• Crib Benefits: The crib size allows your baby to stretch out, roll over, and practice their cute baby yoga poses during sleep. When my firstborn transitioned from his bassinet to his crib, it was like he’d discovered a whole new universe of sleep!
• Bassinet Benefits: A smaller sleep space, perfect for newborns and younger infants. It creates a secure environment that brings them comfort and security. I vividly remember my little girl’s first nap in her bassinet. She looked so peaceful. Do you need to move from the living room to the kitchen? No problem because bassinets are portable.

Both have their advantages, but what about safety?

Is Crib or Bassinet the Safest Option?

• Crib Safety Features: As for safety concerns, the crib slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart to prevent your little Houdini from squeezing through. Also, remember the ‘bare is best’ rule: no pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals to avoid suffocation risk. Trust me, as cute as they look. Those teddies are better off on a shelf!
• Bassinet Safety Features: The safety stakes are slightly different. Because of their smaller size, they have weight limits. My daughter loved her bassinet, but we had to transition her to the crib as she grew.

Let me take you back to when my firstborn was just a little bundle. Bassinets were my savior during those early months. Let me share a few reasons why a bassinet might be the perfect daytime nap spot for your little one.

Why Should I Consider a Bassinet for My Baby’s Daytime Naps?

• Cozy and compact: Bassinets provide a snug and secure environment that can make babies feel more comfortable. They’re compact and fit perfectly in the living room or kitchen, keeping your baby close during the day.
• Easy accessibility: It’s easier to place and pick up a baby from a bassinet due to its lower sides. A bonus for those who are a little vertically challenged, like me!
• Portability perks: Many bassinets come with wheels or are lightweight enough to move around. Handy for keeping an eye on the baby while getting those chores done.
• Safety standards: While we have safety standards for both cribs and bassinets, some parents find the smaller, more enclosed bassinet space comforting in the early months.
• Great for small spaces: A bassinet is a great option if you’re tight on space. Plus, it’s cute and doesn’t make your living room look like a full-blown nursery!
• Ideal for newborns: Bassinets are perfect for newborns. Remember, though, that babies outgrow them faster than cribs.

Bassinets are great, but using only a crib has its own benefits also.

Why Might a Crib Be a Good Option for Daytime Naps?

• Consistency is key: The same crib for day and night sleep can help babies associate it with sleep time. Consistency can make the bedtime routine easier.
• Room to grow: Cribs are larger than bassinets, providing more space for your baby to stretch and grow. Your baby will not outgrow a crib as quickly as a bassinet.
• Safety first: Cribs provide a safe environment for babies with their sturdy build and railings. No risk of rolling out here!
• Comfortable conditions: Cribs with good-quality mattresses can be more comfortable and supportive for longer naps.

For more information on crib mattresses, I suggest you check this guide I created to find the safest crib matters for your baby.

So, are you Team Crib or Team Bassinet? Still, trying to figure it out? As a mom of two and a sleep negotiation expert, let me share a few things that might help you decide.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing Between a Crib and a Bassinet for Daytime Naps?

• Baby’s Age and Weight: Bassinets are designed for the newborn stage, usually up to 4-6 months, or until the baby can roll over or sit up. Weight limits can vary but typically range from 15 to 20 pounds.
• Portability: Whether you’re doing household chores, catching up on your favorite show, or working from home, a bassinet’s portability can be a game-changer. Just wheel baby’s nap spot with you!
• Space Considerations: Bassinets only take up a little space, so if you can afford to add one to your room, why not. However, if you have a crib taking up lots of space, keep it simple, and use it for naps.
• Safety: Both cribs and bassinets can be safe when used correctly. Even if you’re considering occasional use, ensure any bassinet you choose meets all safety standards. Your baby’s safety is always a non-negotiable, right?
• Cost: On average, a new bassinet can range from $50 to over $300, depending on features. It’s an extra cost, so weigh it against the convenience factor.
• Your Comfort: No exact stats here, but many parents report less strain with a bassinet’s higher sides. Plus, we all know back pain is a common parental complaint.
• Baby’s Preference: This one’s unpredictable. My first loved his bassinet. My second? It was crib all the way. You might need some trial and error here.

So there you have it! Just a few things to think about. Remember, you’re the parent. Trust your gut! And if the bassinet ends up as a toy basket? No judgment here!

If you decide to use the bassinet, your baby will eventually outgrow it. So here are some tried-and-tested tricks to do the transition to a crib.

Smooth Transitions: Swapping Bassinet for Crib

Oh, the transition from bassinet to crib! That’s a big step. Typically, babies move from bassinet to crib between 4-6 months. Your baby’s cues matter too! If they’re outgrowing the bassinet or doing gymnastics at naptime, it’s crib time.

Here are my tried-and-true tips:

• Start with naps. My little ones found the crib less intimidating in daylight.
• Make the crib familiar. A beloved blankie or toy from the bassinet can work wonders.
• Keep your routine. Consistent bedtime rituals signal that it’s still a safe, sleepy space, even if it looks different. Stick to regular nap times and follow a mini-version of your bedtime routine. A shorter story or a lullaby.
• Patience is key here. Some babies protest the change. Remember, this is a big change for your baby!
• A baby monitor can help. In the larger crib, your baby may wake up more often. You’ll feel better knowing you can peek in without disturbing their sleep.

Sure, each baby is unique, but after talking to many parents, these tips have done wonders for many families, worked my kiddos may not work for yours. It’s all about patience, flexibility, and lots of love!

Still, if your baby can’t settle in a crib or bassinet, some of my friends have found success with supervised pack’n-play or baby carriers. Just ensure safety guidelines are followed.

The golden rule is creating a safe and comforting environment for those delicious daytime naps. Until they’re over a year old, it’s best to keep the crib or bassinet bare to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Conclusion

Ah, nap time. The blessed hour is when coffee gets hot, and laundry gets folded. Remember that you’re not alone when you find yourself on the edge of a sleep-deprived meltdown. From Sydney to San Francisco, all of us are juggling diapers, lullabies, and work emails.

Above all, remember to give yourself a break. You’re doing an amazing job.

Happy napping!