The Best Bedside Bassinet for Restful Sleep and Safety 2024

Best Bedside Bassinet

Unlike standard bassinets, a bedside bassinet offers new parents a unique advantage: keeping their newborn close during the night while ensuring baby still has their own safe, comfortable space.

Designed to attach to (or sit beside) the parent’s bed, it is this perfect blend of proximity and safety that makes a bedside bassinet especially appealing to parents. In particular, it makes a whole world of difference to those middle-of-the-night feedings and soothing sessions – you get to monitor baby’s wellbeing and respond to their needs quickly, all without getting out of bed.

From drop-down sides to adjustable heights and side panels, we’ll explore the different types of bedside bassinets available in this review. In doing that, we’ll also examine their features and functionality to ensure you can find the best bedside bassinet for your bedroom setup – the one that blends safety, convenience, and peace of mind all in one.

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What is the best bedside bassinet that will suit most families? Hands down it is the Snoo, an advanced, responsive baby sleeper bed that uses a combination of white noise and motion to soothe and effectively extending baby’s sleep by 1-2 hours. The Halo bassinets are the only bassinet for newborn that swivels 360 degrees though, while 4moms MamaRoo allows customization of a series of motion, speed settings, and built-in white noise options so that parents can fine-tune their baby’s sleeping environment.

Arm’s Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper is the perfect baby co sleeper for parents who want to co-sleep but without the risk, while nothing beats the Newton if we’re talking about breathability and significant reduction of risk of suffocation. For those short on space, Maxi-Cosi Iora is an excellent option and for those who are always on the go, Chicco’s LullaGo Anywhere is the bedside baby bassinet for you.

Our Top 10 Best Bedside Bassinet Picks – A Quick Summary

Bedside Bassinet vs. Bedside Sleeper

Whilst often used interchangeably, there are actually considerable differences between a “bedside bassinet” and a “bedside sleeper”. Here’s how they differ:
Bedside Bassinet Bedside Sleeper
A standalone baby bed with its own frame and base Usually has one side that can be lowered or removed to allow for easy access
Typically placed right next to the parent's bed but remains a separate unit (does not attach to the adult bed) Attach to the side of the parent's bed, extending the parent's bed space to include baby securely (also known as a co sleeper)

Both types aim to keep baby close for easier care and bonding during the night, but bedside sleepers offer an even closer proximity by directly adjoining the parent’s bed.

That said, it is important to ensure a secure attachment to the adult bed when using a bedside sleeper because gaps can pose a risk for baby to become trapped or fall. That’s regardless of whether using drop-down panels or sides that can be opened or lowered – if you choose to use a co sleeper bassinet, make sure there is no gap.

Why Should I Use a Bedside Bassinet?

Now, is there any reason you need a bedside bassinet? Well, here are several reasons:

  1. Safety and Proximity: Keeping your baby close in a bedside bassinet while adhering to safe sleep practices can enhance safety during sleep. The bassinet provides this separate, safe sleeping space, while allowing for close proximity to the parents.
  2. Convenience: With baby right next to your bed, night time feedings and soothing become easier and less disruptive for both parent and baby. This arrangement is especially helpful in the early weeks and months when babies frequently wake during the night.
  3. Bonding: Having your baby sleep close to you can enhance bonding by increasing interactions. This includes touch and eye contact, which are important for baby’s emotional development.
  4. Peace of Mind: Parents often find that having their baby close by gives them peace of mind as they can easily check on baby’s well-being throughout the night.
  5. Adherence to Recommendations: The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents (but not the same sleeping surface) for at least the first six months to reduce the risk of SIDS.

In short, a bedside bassinet can be an excellent choice for combining the benefits of close proximity with the safety of a separate sleep space, making it easier to manage the demands of newborn care while ensuring baby’s comfort and safety.

In this article:

Best Bedside Bassinet Reviews

OVERALL BEST BEDSIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 38 pounds
Dimensions: 35.75”L x 19”W x 31”H
Age/Weight Limit: 0-6 months or up to 25 pounds

Why We Love It

Recognized for its advanced automated soothing technology, the SNOO Smart Sleeper is a favourite among parents. Particularly for its smart sensors which detect when a baby starts crying and automatically responds with motion and sound that mimic the soothing experience of being in the womb, this smart bassinet boasts to effectively calm babies in under a minute and extends their sleep periods by 1-2 hours.

Designed and founded by a paediatrician, these features adjust in intensity based on baby’s needs to help calm them down and return to sleep more quickly than they might otherwise do. You’re basically getting your own personal helper 24/7 (with a user-friendly app to adjust all settings and monitor usage) and the best thing is: it sleep-trains baby along the way. What this means is, the eventual transition to a crib is made so much easier!

It is also the first and only bassinet for baby that is authorized by the FDA as a medical device that helps keep infants safely sleeping on their backs, thereby reducing the risk of SIDS. All thanks to a special hip-safe sleep sack swaddle that secures to the bassinet, which comes in 3 sizes to accommodate different stages.

Things to Take Note Of

The SNOO is at the higher end of the market so it is quite the significant investment to make. While many find the cost justifiable given its features and the potential for more sleep, it’s still a consideration for budget-conscious families.

This baby bassinet is also relatively heavy, which can be a drawback for those needing to move it between rooms.

VERDICT: The SNOO is the best bassinet for parents who prioritize advanced technology for baby sleep management and are willing to invest in a premium product that includes unique safety features.

New parents are particularly suitable too, especially those experiencing parenting for the first time and are looking to improve sleep quality and duration for both baby and themselves. 

BEST SWIVEL BEDSIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 22.7 pounds
Dimensions: 34”L x 34”W x 42.5”H
Age/Weight Limit: 0 to 5 months or up to 20 pounds

Why We Love It

Yep, this is the Halo Bassinest that swivels 360 degrees. The first and only bassinet in the market that does so, it allows parents to easily rotate the bassinet in any direction so that they can have better access to baby directly from their bed — perfect for those night time feeds and soothing sessions!

Needless to say, this feature significantly enhances the convenience of bedside care. Especially for new mothers recovering from childbirth/C-sections with limited mobility – the lowering side wall minimizes the need to stretch or strain when reaching out for baby. The swivel mechanism is otherwise smooth and quiet so you can rest assured baby’s sleep is undisturbed while adjusting the bassinet’s position.

This version comes with vibration and sound options that mimic the calming sensations babies experience in the womb, and we like how it is height-adjustable so you can position it either over the bed or directly on the side. The latter makes moving baby in and out of the bassinet easier, not to mention enabling a cosleeper-like arrangement but without the risk of an in bed bassinet – baby still has their own safe, defined space while still being immediately accessible to the parent.

Things to Take Note Of

While the swivel feature is highly beneficial, the Halo bassinet is actually bulkier than other options. The good thing is, it can be transformed into a portable nest so that you can move it easily from room to room. Nevertheless, go for the halo bassinest glide sleeper if you prefer something lighter and more portable – it folds into a carry bag (included) and stores flat.

Some users also find it a bit complex to assemble and disassemble, which might be a consideration for those who prefer more straightforward/less feature-rich models. Additionally, its price point is on the higher side compared to other bassinets, though many feel the features justify the cost. Nevertheless, here’s a cheaper version without the vibration and sounds, a good alternative if your little one is not a fan of these features.

VERDICT: The 360-degree swivel feature and adjustable height make this the best baby bassinet for parents who are recovering from childbirth, especially C-sections.

Families living in smaller spaces or who want to maintain a minimalistic bedroom setup will also benefit from the ability to swivel and retract – the bassinet can be pulled over the bed when needed and pushed away to save space during the day. 

BEST VALUE BEDSIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 24 pounds
Dimensions: 34”L x 20”W x 35”H
Age/Weight Limit: 0 -5 months or up to 45 pounds

Why We Love It

The Arm’s Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper Bassinet is the perfect baby bassinet bedside sleeper for parents seeking a close, safe sleeping arrangement for their baby.

With built-in leg extensions, you can create a co sleeping arrangement by adjusting it to align with the height of your bed and have it flushed against the side using the secure straps provided. One side drops down so you essentially have baby right next to you for bedside accessibility, but without the risks associated with traditional bed-sharing because baby still has their own safe, dedicated space.

Pull the side up and it can be used as a standard bassinet, the lockable wheels enabling easy moving around the house from one room to another. It is this dual functionality as both a co sleeper and a freestanding bassinet that makes it stands out from the rest, the clear mesh sides (for visibility) and large storage basket underneath adding to its appeal and overall value for money.

Things to Take Note Of

While the storage basket is a welcomed feature, the overall size of the bassinet crib can be somewhat bulky so it might not be suitable for smaller living spaces.

Some parents note that assembly can be a bit challenging and adjusting the height to align perfectly with the adult bed might require a bit of effort. Ensuring the co-sleeper is securely attached is crucial for safety. 

VERDICT: For parents looking for flexibility in their baby’s sleeping arrangements without compromising safety or convenience, this is the best bassinet for baby to get. It is also perfect for parents who want to keep their newborn close for easier night time feeding, comforting, and bonding.

BEST BREATHABLE BED SIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 22.1 pounds
Dimensions: 41.5”L x 22.1”W x 31.75”H
Age/Weight Limit: 0 – 6 months

Why We Love It

If the Halo Bassinest is the only bassinet that swivels, then the Newton Baby Bassinet is the only bassinet with a Wovenaire breathe-thru mattress. The brand’s patented technology, this core feature is made from a unique material that allows air to pass freely through it, thereby significantly reducing the risk of suffocation and helping to maintain a safer sleep environment for infants.

Not just that, the breathable design also helps regulate baby’s temperature and keeps them cool and comfortable throughout the night. And you know what that means – when baby is comfortable, they sleep longer and you get to sleep longer too! Aside from being a freestanding bassinet, you can transform it into a co sleeping bassinet too by attaching it to your bed with the 8 adjustable height settings and a drop-down side.

Accentuating its appeal is the large in-class sleep surface – this one here boasts to have the biggest among its competitors so you get extended use as your baby grows. For those who are concerned about harmful toxins, you’ll find peace in knowing that there is no fam, glue, latex or springs incorporated in this Greenguard Gold certified bedside sleeper bassinet.

Things to Take Note Of

While compact and convenient for travel, we note that the crib’s sleeping area may seem a bit small for older toddlers or very active sleepers. The carry bag comes with double handles only so there is no shoulder strap, a small feature that we think will enhance its transportation.

It is also on the higher end of the price range for travel cribs. However, many parents find that the durability, ease of use, and safety features justify the investment.

VERDICT: For parents who are especially concerned about their baby’s sleeping environment, the Newton Baby Bassinet will offer you the peace of mind with its breathability and safety features.

BEST BEDSIDE BASSINET WITH SWAYING MOTION

Item Weight: 32.7 pounds
Dimensions: 29.3”L x 35.6”W x 46.3”H
Age/Weight Limit: up to 20 lbs

Why We Love It

They’re not just famous for their car seats and strollers – Graco makes some of the best bassinets in the market and their DreamMore Bedside Bassinet Deluxe with Calming Motion is our top favourite.

Unlike others, it features a swaying motion that is designed to mimic the natural movements that soothe babies and help them relax and fall asleep faster – the gentle rocking they experience in a parent’s arms. You do have to sway it manually but that gives you control over speed and rhythm of movement – it certainly is easier than having to bounce baby in your arms!

While this is not a bassinet that attaches to bed directly, there are 9 height settings to fit over most beds so that you can have baby positioned at eye level to keep them in reach. The gliding legs tuck easily under the bed and all sides are mesh for visibility and maximum airflow. Plus, the bassinet is detachable from the base so you can literally use it as a floor bassinet and move it easily to any room.

Things to Take Note Of
It’s important to carefully follow the assembly instructions to ensure all features function correctly and safely. Some parents have mentioned that getting used to the settings and adjustments can take a little time.

VERDICT: For parents of newborns who struggle with sleep due to restlessness or colic, a bassinet that rocks like this one can significantly help in settling baby.

The gentle swaying motion mimics the comforting movement babies experience in arms, making it ideal for families seeking effective solutions to improve their baby’s sleep quality. 

BEST BEDSIDE BASSINET FOR SMALL SPACES

Item Weight: 24 pounds
Dimensions: 26”L x 38.5”W x 36”H
Age/Weight Limit: 0 – 5 months or up to 20 pounds

Why We Love It

The Maxi-Cosi Iora is lauded for its sleek, modern design that doesn’t sacrifice functionality for form. Its compact dimensions make it perfect for smaller bedrooms or apartments where space is at a premium, the 4 height and 3 slide positions making it easy to find the right fit in your space to have baby close during the night.

Designed with a firm, flat sleeping surface that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recommendations for safe sleep, it has breathable mesh sides for optimal airflow and the entire bed bassinet folds flat to fit into a travel bag. Despite the compactness, there is a large storage basket underneath for storing all your essentials close at hand.

Parents appreciate the high-quality materials and construction, for us, it is the neutral colour palette that makes seamless blending into any room décor a breeze.

Things to Take Note Of
It comes with only one mattress sheet and additional ones are not sold separately so it can be frustrating when accidents happen (meaning, you’ll have to have it washed and air-dried immediately).
VERDICT: The Maxi-Cosi Iora is designed for portability, featuring a compact fold and including a travel bag. This makes it an ideal choice for families who often travel or who appreciate a portable bassinet for baby, ensuring their baby has a familiar sleeping environment wherever they go.

BEST MULTIFUNCTIONAL BEDSIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 33 pounds
Dimensions: 33.5”L x 28”W x 46”H
Age/Weight Limit: up to 20 pounds (changing table: 35 pounds)

Why We Love It

Multifunctionality is what sets the Chicco Close to You 3-in-1 Bedside Bassinet apart from the rest. This is not just a bedside bassinet – it is a portable bassinet and a changing station too, making it exceptionally convenient for parents who want a single product to meet several needs.

Besides having a range of height adjustments for you to find the best position to glide over your bed, the four swivelling wheels make it easy to move from room to room. Don’t worry, it has all the safety features a bassinet on wheels should have – the handle dual-functions as a brake so that you can lock it in place and prevent it from sliding around.

The mattress is something we like very much as well. It is quilted on one side for comfortable sleeping while the other side is made waterproof for changing sessions. The mattress cover zips off easily for cleaning, and there are electronic functionalities like vibrations, sounds, and a nightlight to help soothe baby to sleep.

Things to Take Note Of

 Some parents may find the bassinet quite bulky when fully assembled, which could be a consideration if space is limited. Its size, however, contributes to its stability and multifunctionality.

There can also be quite the learning curve to use all the aspects effectively with all the electronic features and multiple functions involved.

VERDICT: Families who need the flexibility to move their baby’s sleeping area around the home will love this moving bassinet.

Likewise for those who want to reduce the need for multiple pieces of baby furniture and maximize the use of limited space, this is the best bedside bassinet for baby that makes for an excellent long-term investment. 

BEST PORTABLE BABY BASSINET

Item Weight: 12 pounds
Dimensions: 30L x 18W x 28H inches
Age/Weight Limit: up to 20 pounds

Why We Love It

Another bestselling model from Chicco, the LullaGo Anywhere is made for parents on the go. Specifically designed for ease of transport and flexibility, this top rated bassinet has a lightweight frame that literally lets you pick it up with just one hand and take it to another room.

Engineered for quick assembly, all it takes to set it up is just unfolding the frame and locking it into place. Everything is facilitated by intuitive mechanisms that click when securely fastened, no tools required and often completed in just a few minutes.

It comes with a carry bag so parents can easily move it from one location to another, or store it compactly when not in use. What we like is that despite the seemingly simple and lightweight design, there is still a storage pocket on the side for storing the little essentials.

Things to Take Note Of
While it is compact, some parents note that the bassinet still requires a fair amount of space when fully assembled. This is due to the extended legs that spread out to provide a solid base, which increases the overall footprint of the bassinet. It’s not necessary a bad thing given how it enhances the bassinet’s safety and usability, but it could be a consideration in cramped quarters.
VERDICT: Needless to say, a baby bassinet portable like this is ideal for travelling families who are always on the go. Thanks to its compact fold also, families with limited living space (or those who prefer a minimalist lifestyle) can consider going with a portable bassinet like this to maintain an uncluttered home environment.

BEST SMART TECHNOLOGY BEDSIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 30.5 pounds
Dimensions: 34L x 24W x 39H inches
Age/Weight Limit: up to 25 pounds

Why We Love It

Unlike other traditional top bassinets, the 4moms MamaRoo Sleep Bassinet offers five unique motion patterns that mimic the natural movements of parents. This includes rocking and swaying – sophisticated motion technology that provides a more dynamic and customizable sleeping environment for infants.

Such advanced feature is particularly appreciated as it can significantly help soothe and calm fussy babies, aiding them in falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer. Among the smart features are adjustable motion, speed settings, and built-in white noise options – all of which can be controlled via a smartphone app.

This level of customization is a significant plus as it allows parents to fine-tune the sleeping environment to their baby’s preferences. Because you know, newborns’ preference change often – what worked last week to soothe them to sleep may not work this week. You can also set a timer to help your infant establish a consistent sleep routine, and the whole frame is height adjustable by 4.5” so you can easily reach your newborn.

Things to Take Note Of

Many newton travel crib reviews would note this – the larger footprint of this pack n play for toddlers might require a bit more room when set up, which could be a consideration in smaller living spaces.

The price point may be higher compared to basic models as well, but many parents find the advanced safety features and superior materials justify the investment for the added peace of mind. 

VERDICT: For families who appreciate modern technology and smart devices, the 4moms MamaRoo Sleep Bassinet is ideal. It offers advanced features such as programmable motions, sound options, and app connectivity that allow parents to control and customize the sleep environment from their smartphones.

Families with newborns who are particularly fussy or have trouble sleeping might find this bassinet a godsend, as its motions can calm and soothe a baby more effectively than a stationary or simpler rocking bassinet. 

BEST AFFORDABLE BEDSIDE BASSINET

Item Weight: 38 pounds
Dimensions: 31L x 19.5W x 41.5H inches
Age/Weight Limit: 0-5 months or up to 15 pounds

Why We Love It

For a baby side sleeper that doesn’t break the bank, the Simmons Kids By The Bed is a great option. This compact and adjustable urban bedside bassinet is tailored for city living where space might be limited, thanks to a narrow and streamlined profile that allows it to fit snugly next to a parent’s bed.

It comes with wheels so this is a rolling bassinet that makes mobility easier. The Z-shaped base can be tucked under the bed to minimalize footprint, and there are 5 adjustable heights to ensure a perfect alignment with the bed. This necessary creates a safe baby bed sleeper arrangement without the risk of co-sleeping, as baby still has their own separate sleep area despite being so close.

There are two large pockets on the sides to keep the essentials close and we like how there is a twin option for families with twins. The latter is basically identical in all aspects, except for the bigger sleeping area. Don’t worry, there is a divider in between so each baby has their own safe, separate sleep space.

Things to Take Note Of
It has a smaller weight capacity compared to other bassinets for baby so you’re going to have to retire it sooner than you’d like. The good thing is, its affordable price point ensures consumers still receive excellent value without significant compromise.
VERDICT: This is the best co sleeper bassinet for budget-conscious families who do not want to compromise on quality and functionality. It is also ideal for those living in compact urban environments like apartments or smaller homes, or those wanting to maintain a minimalist space.

How We Come Up with Our Best Bedside Bassinet Picks

In shortlisting the best bedside bassinets for parents, we undertake a meticulous selection process that emphasizes safety, quality, and functionality. We start by gathering a wide range of bassinets from reputable manufacturers known for their commitment to safety standards and quality materials. Each model is then rigorously assessed against criteria including safety features, ease of use, durability, and parent feedback.

We consult with paediatric experts to ensure that the recommended bassinets adhere to the latest health and safety guidelines. Our team also scrutinizes customer reviews and testimonials to gauge user satisfaction and identify any common issues. Additionally, we consider the design’s practicality for daily use, examining how easily the bassinet can be integrated into busy parental routines.

By combining expert opinions, thorough research, and real-world testing, we ensure that only the top-performing bassinets make it to our list, providing parents with reliable options that they can trust for their baby’s safety and comfort.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Bedside Bassinet

When choosing the best pack and play, consider several key factors to ensure you select a model that meets your family’s needs while prioritizing safety and convenience:
1. Safety Standards
Verify that the bassinet meets current safety standards set by recognized organizations such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the U.S. Look for features like sturdy construction, a firm mattress, and breathable, mesh side walls that prevent suffocation risks and provide good air circulation.
2. Ease of Access
Choose a bassinet that allows you to easily reach your baby from your bed. Many models offer adjustable height features and drop-down sides that make it easier to tend to your baby during the night without having to get out of bed.
3. Size and Portability

Consider the size of the bassinet to ensure it fits comfortably next to your bed. If you plan to move the bassinet from room to room, look for options with wheels and those that are lightweight and easy to transport.

4. Comfort

Check for a comfortable, supportive mattress that aligns with safe sleep recommendations, which typically advise a firm surface to reduce the risk of SIDS. Also, ensure the bedding is snug-fitting to avoid any loose fabric that could pose a risk.

5. Additional Features

Some bassinets come with extra features such as swivel or swaying motions, soothing vibrations, sounds, and nightlights. Decide which features are most important to you and will contribute to a smoother routine.

Other FAQs

Bedside bassinets are typically designed for newborns and can be used until the baby reaches about 4-6 months old, or until they start to push up on their hands and knees, sit up unassisted, or reach the manufacturer's recommended weight limit.

 

Always check the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer for age and weight restrictions.

While a bedside bassinet itself does not directly reduce the risk of SIDS, using one can make it easier to follow safe sleep guidelines that do lower the risk.

 

These include placing the baby on their back to sleep, keeping soft bedding and loose objects out of the sleep area, and maintaining a smoke-free environment. Additionally, having the baby sleep in the same room as the parents for the first 6-12 months is recommended by paediatric experts to help reduce the risk of SIDS.

Yes, bedside bassinets are safe for babies as long as they meet current safety standards set by child safety organizations. Ensure the bassinet has a sturdy design, a firm and flat sleeping surface, breathable sides, and no extra padding or soft bedding. Always use the infant bassinet according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

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