Best Bassinets of 2024: Top Picks for Comfort and Safety

Best Bassinets of 2024: Top Picks for Comfort and Safety

Keeping your little one close, especially at bedtime, is a topic that pops up frequently among new parents. Enter the bassinet: a modern parent's dream. These nifty little sleep stations are beloved for their convenience and safety. Plus, their compact size, similar to a mini crib but lighter, makes them an ideal first snooze zone before transitioning to a larger crib. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics' safe sleep guidelines, it's recommended to keep baby's sleep area in your room for at least the first six months. Craving extra close cuddles? Dive into our top picks for best bedside sleepers.

 

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Bassinets

Best Bedside Bassinet

Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 (Buy on Amazon)

Just like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, this sleeper is just right when it comes to bedside positioning, thanks to its 360-degree swivel and adjustable stand. The best part? The base slides neatly under your bed, saving precious floor space. And here's a cherry on top: the bassinet part detaches from the stand for a portable—and safe—nest you can move around the house. (Just a heads-up: the portable nest isn’t safe for sleeping when it’s off the BassiNest base.)

Parents rave about the retractable wall that lowers for easy baby access—an absolute lifesaver during recovery and those late-night nursing sessions. The sheer mesh sides provide better visibility and breathability, giving parents that much-needed peace of mind.

While one side of the Halo’s base tucks in nicely under most beds, beware that the legs on the other side might stick out quite a bit, which could be a bit of a hassle in smaller spaces.

Additional Specs

  • Fully customizable for height and position, 360-degree swivel
  • 2-in-1 design converts to portable nest
  • One side lowers for easy access and diaper changes
  • Child Guidelines: 0-5 mos or 20 lbs (stop using when baby shows signs of rolling over or pushing up)

Parent Review

“Absolutely adore how this bassinet features an adjustable stand, allowing me to set it to the ideal height. It's super portable, making it easy to shift from room to room. You can transport just the bassinet or bring along the entire stand. Its hourglass design makes it ideal for keeping beside the bed at night. It's especially useful for breastfeeding or post-C-section recovery. The side collapses only when held down, which is a smart design. Plus, assembly is a breeze.” - Virginia K.

 

Another Bedside Bassinet Option

Maxi-Cosi Iora Bedside Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

The Maxi-Cosi Iora is a hit among modern parents on the lookout for a fully adjustable bedside bassinet. What’s not to love? It starts with its chic appearance. The minimalist design and neutral tones fit seamlessly with any decor. (Psst, the Classic Oat color is an exclusive at Babylist, so you'll only score it there.) Another draw is the Iora’s supreme adjustability. It glides up and down, and side to side, letting you nail the perfect height for your bed and get it close for those midnight baby snuggles.

Need a bassinet that travels? The Iora isn't the lightest on the market, but it does fold flat for those trips to Grandma's—a rarity for full-size, adjustable bassinets. Storage? Check. There’s plenty of room below for baby essentials, plus breathable mesh sides to help you keep an eye on your tiny human.

Yes, the Iora comes with a steeper price tag. It's also a bit heavy and takes up ample space. Unlike some bassinets, there’s no drop-down side, so it might not be ideal post-C-section.

And here’s a pro tip: skip the extra bedding. Maxi-Cosi suggests using the mattress as-is, and when it needs a clean, just pop the whole thing in the wash. Simple, right?

Additional Specs

  • Beautiful design, neutral look
  • Adjusts up and down and side to side
  • Folds for travel
  • Child Guidelines: 0-5 months or up to 20 lbs or until baby can push up on hands and knees

Parent Review

"I’m totally thrilled with our bassinet! I rest easy knowing my little one has a secure and cozy spot to sleep. Though it’s a bit on the bigger side, I'm pleased that she'll be able to use it for an extended period. I really appreciate that it can fold completely flat and came with a travel bag for convenient moving around. This product is amazingly adaptable, definitely essential for new moms!" - Aiden

 

Best Co-Sleeper Bassinet

Arm’s Reach Mini Ezee 2 in 1 Co-Seeper Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

As the name suggests, this handy sleeper keeps your little one within arm’s reach, transforming your bed into a cozy side-car. Whether you're using it as a freestanding bassinet with its four breathable sides or attached to your bed for those midnight feedings, convenience is the name of the game. One side easily drops down and securely fastens to your bed, making those half-asleep baby scoops a breeze. Need a place for diapers, wipes, and extra swaddles? There's storage space underneath, keeping everything you need close at hand.

Parents are raving about how effortlessly this sleeper moves from room to room, courtesy of built-in wheels. And if you're a family on the go, you’ll love how compactly it packs for travel. 

This co-sleeper is ideal for beds starting at a height of 24” (measured from the floor to the top of your mattress). Got a taller bed? No problem! Just grab the separate leg extension kit to ensure a perfect fit.

Additional Specs

  • Safest way to co-sleep
  • Can be used as a freestanding bassinet or a bedside sleeper
  • Lots of storage
  • Child Guidelines: 0-5 months or until baby is able to push up on their own

Parent Review

“Absolutely the best purchase we made! It made those late-night breastfeeding sessions so much more manageable while still ensuring their safety. Plus, transitioning them to the crib was a breeze since the cosleeper doesn't envelop them like other bassinets tend to.” - C. T.

 

Most Breathable Bassinet

Newton Baby Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

We all know (and adore) Newton for their superstar breathable crib mattress, so when we caught wind of their new bassinet, we had a feeling it would be just as spectacular—and guess what? We were right! This sleek, modern birchwood bassinet doesn’t just look stunning; it comes with a mini version of Newton’s crib mattress. It’s 100% breathable, washable, and lightweight. Why is this awesome? As new parents, anything that keeps our worries at bay and helps everyone catch more Z’s is worth its weight in gold. Other standout features include a spacious sleep area, a bedside sleeper mode with a convenient zip-down side for super easy baby access, eight height settings to fit any bed, plus it’s light and comes with a travel bag for those family getaways.

Now for the not-so-great news: some parents have noted that the zip-down side is made from fabric rather than mesh. While this isn’t a safety issue (the bassinet has the US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s seal of approval), many parents would prefer four mesh sides instead of three for better airflow. Also, though the bassinet can break down flat for travel, you’ll need some tools and a bit of time to get it done, making it less ideal for those spur-of-the-moment trips.

Additional Specs

  • 100% breathable, washable mattress
  • Height-adjustable and zip-down side for easy access to baby
  • Collapses for travel
  • Child Guidelines: 0-6 mos; stop using when baby can push up on hands and knees or roll over

Parent Review

"What a stunning item! It fits perfectly beside my bedside with my baby. It's a huge relief not having to worry when my newborn shifts and wiggles onto their side and into the mattress. This is by far the most comforting and peace-of-mind inducing baby product I bought as a first-time mom. So grateful for Newton!" - Jessy

 

Best Portable Bassinet

Chicco LullaGo Anywhere Portable Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

The Lullago is a chic and simple bassinet that excels whether you're jet-setting or nesting at home. Weighing in at a mere 12 pounds, it’s super lightweight, compact, and breaks down effortlessly—so much so, you can sling it over your shoulder using the included tote. Oh, and did we mention even the most sleep-deprived parent can set it up in seconds? Yep, it’s that easy.

No need to hunt for extras; the bassinet comes with a fitted sheet, so you’re all set. While it doesn’t have a ton of storage space—no bottom shelf here—it does boast a handy mesh pocket on the side for those must-have essentials.

Packing up is a breeze, thanks to the mattress that folds in half. Although there’s a small ridge when the mattress is laid flat, your little one probably won't notice it. Some parents have expressed concerns about comfort, but we think it’s just fine.

Additional Specs

  • Lightweight and ultra portable
  • Simple, straightforward and well-priced
  • Breathable mesh sides
  • Child Guidelines: Birth to 20 lbs, or when infant begins to push up on hands and knees

Parent Review

"We used this product in our bedroom until our son turned 5 months old. It was also fantastic for travel – simple to dismantle and carry. Definitely an essential item!" - Hailey

 

Best Smart Bassinet

Happiest Baby Snoo Smart Sleeper Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

Parents are basically superheroes…but a little help never hurt anyone, especially when it comes to ensuring your baby sleeps like, well, a baby. Enter Dr. Harvey Karp, the genius behind The Happiest Baby on the Block, who’s here to save your sleep with the ingenious Snoo. This automated bassinet comes with a built-in swaddle and smart tech that responds to your baby’s cries with the perfect blend of white noise and gentle rocking. Midnight meltdowns? Consider them handled.

Now, let's talk dollars and sense. Yes, the Snoo is an investment. But don't fret – you’ve got options. First, you can snag a Certified Pre-Loved Snoo that’s been refreshed and reconditioned, saving you about 25%. Alternatively, consider renting one for $159 a month (with a one-month minimum rental). That’s just around five bucks a day. Sleep: priceless. Snoo: affordable.

Additional Specs

  • Responds to baby’s cries with movement and sound
  • Developed by a pediatrician
  • Expensive
  • Child Guidelines: From birth to about 6 months or when your baby can get up on hands and knees, or until a maximum weight of 25 lbs

Parent Review

"Absolutely adore my Snoo! My little one is six months old now and still using it. The wean function is fantastic, and I appreciate that it turns off if the baby needs attention. The Snoo has been a blessing, truly helping my daughter get the rest she deserves." - Ashley U.

 

Best Affordable Smart Bassinet

4moms x Babylist mamaRoo Sleep Bassinet and Sheet Bundle (Buy on Amazon)

If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly alternative to the Snoo, check out the mamaRoo Sleep Bassinet from 4moms—a brand we're absolutely thrilled about for their cutting-edge baby products. Now, while this bassinet won't automatically hush your baby's cries like the Snoo, it’s still got a slew of high-tech features that both you and your little one will adore.

Just like their popular mamaRoo swing, this mesh-sided bassinet is designed to mimic human movements, helping to lull your baby to dreamland and hopefully extend those precious Zzzs. With five unique motions—car ride, wave, kangaroo, tree swing, and rock-a-bye—and four built-in white noise options, this bassinet has its soothing game on point. You can control everything manually via the touchscreen panel or, even better, through an app on your phone! This package includes the bassinet itself, which comes with a firm and flat water-resistant mattress, and an organic cotton sheet.

Now, a quick heads-up: there’s no continuous run option for motion. You can set a timer using the app, but the motion maxes out at four hours. Also, there might be a bit of a jerky motion when it turns off or switches between movements. Most babies won’t mind, but lighter sleepers might notice.

Looking for more wallet-friendly smart bassinet options? Check out the EVI Smart Bassinet from TruBliss. Priced just under $400, it boasts motion, lights, and sound and even syncs up with Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Additional Specs

  • A motion bassinet at a more affordable price
  • Five unique motions mimic human movement and built-in white noise
  • Can control manually or via 4moms app on your phone
  • Child Guidelines: Infants up to 25 lbs

Parent Review

"We were utterly exhausted from lack of sleep. The moment we put our newborn in his bassinet, he’d start crying. That same day, we purchased this bassinet. IMMEDIATELY, no more cries! Now, our baby sleeps for a solid 1.5 to 3 hours before needing to feed. This has been a game changer and worth every penny (as long as it keeps working)." - JP

  

Best Affordable Bassinet

Dream On Me Karley Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

At well under $100, and with rave reviews from parents, this budget-friendly bassinet is a real gem. It's just over 12 pounds, making it a breeze to move around your home. (You can even take it outside, thanks to the double mesh canopy that keeps the bugs at bay.) It folds up easily but offers a spacious interior for your baby to stretch out in. Plus, there's a handy storage bag underneath for all your baby essentials.

The zippered overhead canopy isn't just for keeping bugs away; pet parents love it for keeping curious cats from invading their baby's sleep space too.

Additional Specs

  • Super affordable
  • Light and quick-folding
  • Can use outdoors
  • Child Guidelines: Newborns up to 25 lbs

 

Best Pack and Play Bassinet

Graco Pack ‘n Play Close2Baby Playard (Buy on Amazon)

If you're on a mission to declutter your life while setting up the ultimate baby station, then the bassinet-plus-playard combo is your new best friend. This Graco model isn't just a space-saver; it's a multi-functional marvel that grows with your baby, outlasting the traditional bassinet with style and flair.

Here's what you get:

  • Portable Newborn Seat: Comes with infant head support because your baby deserves the best.
  • Full-Size Infant Bassinet: Portable for your convenience. Move it anywhere you like!
  • Elevated Full-Size Bassinet: Perfect for older infants who are ready for the next stage.
  • Wipe-Clean Diaper Changer: Keeping hygiene in check with minimal fuss.
  • Toddler Playard: A safe spot for your little explorer to play.

And guess what? It's budget-friendly and comes with a handy travel bag for those on-the-go moments.

Now, let's talk logistics. This playard packs a punch at almost 30 pounds. While it does have wheels for easier navigation around your living space, consider the weight factor if you're planning on frequent moves.

Additional Specs

  • Multi-use product that goes the distance
  • Five configurations
  • Well-priced
  • Child Guidelines: Portable Seat: birth up to 15 lbs; Infant bassinet: birth up to 15 lbs (stop using when baby can roll over); Portable Seat: birth up to 15 lbs; Changer: birth up to 5 lbs; Playard: under 35” tall and unable to climb out.

Parent Review

"Our little one just turned 1, and we've practically worn out our play yard. In the beginning, we used the changing table every two hours, several times a day, and the bassinet was a lifesaver for naps or when we needed hands-free moments after diaper changes. Once that phase passed, the play yard became an awesome spot for her to roll around in. As soon as she started standing and crawling, it was indispensable when mommy urgently needed a shower. I'd simply wheel it into the bathroom to keep an eye on her while I took care of myself. Now, it's our trusty companion for trips to visit family and outdoor picnics." - Paul L.

 

Best Travel Bassinet

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Portable Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

Investing in a travel bassinet is a game-changer. While many full-size versions can tag along, they’re often heavy, clunky, and a chore to set up. Enter the Snuggle Nest from Baby Delight. It’s minimalist, by design, making your life easier.

Pop it open, lock the top bar, and fold the legs into place—yep, it's that simple. Perfect for positioning next to your bed or moving around the house. Plus, it comes with a handy travel bag and has removable, machine-washable components: sheet, mattress, and cover.

Additional Specs

  • Folds flat for travel
  • Weighs less than 7 pounds
  • Travel bag included
  • Child Guidelines: 20 lbs, 0-5 mos; stop using when baby starts trying to sit up or reaches 20 lbs, whichever comes first

Parent Review

"I'm absolutely thrilled with my Snuggle Nest from Baby Delight. It's the ideal product to have when you have a little one, super convenient. Every trip to visit family, we bring it along so our baby feels more secure and cozy compared to placing her on a couch or other less safe spots. The bassinet is really solid, and I especially appreciate the included travel bag, making it simple to store and carry around. Highly recommend!" - Loren

 

Most Versatile Bassinet

Chicco Close To You 3-In-1 Bedside Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

Meet the Close To You Bassinet from Chicco – a favorite for its adjustability, portability, and versatility. This smartly designed bedside bassinet slides snugly under your bed, optimizing space while keeping your baby safely within arm’s reach all through the night. The height is fully adjustable, catering to your comfort and the altitude of your mattress (yes, it even works wonders for those extra-tall beds!). Swivel wheels ensure seamless room-to-room movement, and voilà – the mattress flips to transform the bassinet into a waterproof changing pad for those midnight diaper changes.

Keep in mind, this bassinet has some heft and doesn’t easily break down, so it’s not the best pick for travel or for navigating a two-story home. It’s on the pricier side, but its durability means it can be handed down through the family if you're planning for more little ones.

Additional Specs

  • Slides under bed to save space
  • Adjustable; even works for tall beds
  • Doubles as a changing station
  • Child Guidelines: Bedside sleeper and bassinet: infants up to 20 lbs or until infant begins to push up on hands and knees, whichever comes first; changing table: children up to 35 lbs

Parent Review

"I scoured through what felt like every bassinet on the market, and this was the only one that stood out for its extra height. We have a fairly tall king-sized bed, and we needed something that could extend over it, and this fit the bill perfectly. Despite its impressive height, it's remarkably stable. Plus, we love that it also serves as a changing pad." - Nick

 

Best Minimalist Bassinet

BabyBjorn Cradle (Buy on Amazon)

If sleek and chic minimalism speaks to your soul, then this blend of form and function is calling your name. This bassinet rocks (literally), with a gentle movement that you or your tiny human can initiate. It's lightweight and compact, making it a breeze to relocate from one room to another. Plus, parents rave about the breathable mesh sides, and you'll be thrilled to know that every component—from the fabric and mattress cover right down to the mattress—is fully machine washable.

Yes, The Cradle is definitely an investment. But if you've got dreams of a big family or envision passing it down through the generations, it's wonderfully durable (and stylishly timeless) enough to make it worth every penny.

Additional Specs

  • Clean, modern look
  • Light and easy to move from room to room
  • Expensive but heirloom quality
  • Child Guidelines: Ages 0 to 6 mos., maximum weight 18 lbs, or until your baby can sit up, kneel or stand unaided

Parent Review

“This bassinet is stunning! The wood finish and sleek, minimal design really stand out. Plus, assembling it was a breeze. For our overnight trip with the newborn, I chose to bring this bassinet instead of the Pack ‘n Play. It’s absolutely worth every penny!” - Hannah M

 

Best Rocking Bassinet

Baby Delight Slumber Deluxe Rocking Bassinet (Buy on Amazon)

Most little ones adore motion, but we get it—modern parents aren’t thrilled about dropping a small fortune on a high-tech bassinet. Say hello to this rocking bassinet, bringing back that good old-fashioned charm in the best possible way. The legs easily switch from stationary to rocking mode, and a gentle nudge gets it swaying soothingly. Other reasons to love it: budget-friendly price, simple setup and takedown for portability, featherlight at just 12 pounds, and even a canopy option to shield from sun and bugs for those outdoor naps.

It's also an excellent pick if you're on the hunt for a lightweight, portable bassinet for your travels. Just a heads-up: the mattress is on the thinner side, and some parents aren't the biggest fans of that feature.

Additional Specs

  • Can be stationary or in (manual) rocking mode
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Also great for travel
  • Child Guidelines: Birth to 5 months or up to 20 lbs (stop using when baby can push up on hands and knees, or roll over)

Parent Review

"This is FANTASTIC. Seriously, the toughest thing was getting the box open. It arrives inside the travel bag, and all you need to do is attach the legs, canopy, and rocking rails, and BOOM! You're all set. The sheet is already fitted onto the mattress pad, the mesh is already around the bassinet; essentially, it's ready for use right out of the package. It looks very spacious and comfy, doesn't occupy much space, and is a breeze to fold up and put back in the bag for storage or trips." - Louis

 

More Bassinets We Love

Navigating the world of baby gear? With a ton of options that cater to various needs, budgets, and aesthetics, picking the perfect bassinet can feel daunting. We've curated a list of some all-time favorites and new contenders that modern parents are buzzing about.

  • Cradlewise ($1,999): Meet the smart crib revolution. This high-tech marvel merges a bassinet, crib, and monitor into one sleek unit. Powered by AI, it tracks your baby's sleep patterns and adjusts its motion and white noise accordingly. Yes, it’s pricey, but it transitions seamlessly from newborn to toddler, making it a long-term investment.
  • Stokke Snoozi ($399): For lovers of Scandinavian design, this is your dream bassinet. Stokke's latest offering features minimalist, clean lines that elevate any contemporary nursery. Who said baby gear can't be chic?
  • SnuzPod: An international darling that's finally stateside! Crafted from sustainably sourced wood, this UK import boasts a luxe, modern feel. Its detachable top makes it portable, so you can easily move it around your home.
  • Boppy Bassinet ($169): Budget-friendly and super easy to set up—no tools required! This lightweight bassinet is perfect for parents who need a fuss-free solution that can be moved from room to room effortlessly.
  • Arm's Reach Versatile Co-Sleeper Bassinet ($250): Known for their co-sleepers, Arm's Reach now offers this modern update. With easy assembly and adjustability, it's great for small spaces and parents who value versatility in their baby gear.

 

How We Chose the Best Bassinets

A Deep Dive into Parent Favorites

We gathered insights from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, tapping into the wisdom of almost 6,000 Babylist users who shared their top baby product picks and the reasons behind their favorites.

Expert Opinions You Can Trust

We leveraged the expertise of the Babylist editorial team, especially our Gear Editor, Jen LaBracio. With over six years in the baby gear arena and personal experience as a mom of two, Jen has authored countless baby gear guides and has hands-on experience testing hundreds of baby products, including a wide range of bassinets.

Real-World Feedback

We pored over customer reviews from hundreds of Babylist parents who’ve used these products in real life.

By combining these expert insights and real parent feedback, we curated a list of bassinets that are practical, reliable, and loved by parents just like you.

 

What Is a Bassinet?

A bassinet is like a cozy mini-bed for your newborn, designed to provide a snug and secure sleeping space for your baby. Smaller than a crib, it’s perfectly sized for infants and can usually be placed right next to your bed, giving you easy access to those midnight feeds and cuddles. Many bassinets come with wheels, making it a breeze to move them around so your baby can nap close to you during the day.

 

Do You Need a Bassinet?

A bassinet offers numerous perks, but convenience and peace of mind are likely at the top of the list.

Because your little one will be within arm’s reach, a bassinet makes those middle-of-the-night feeding sessions a bit more manageable. (And at 2 a.m., every bit of ease counts!) Whether you’re nursing or using a bottle, you’ll be able to reach over and pick up baby for feeding without straying far from the cozy confines of your bed. This convenience is especially valuable for new parents recovering from delivery who might have limited mobility.

Bassinets also bring peace of mind during those early months of parenthood when worry seems like the main activity you can’t avoid. Most bassinets are designed to be at the same height as your bed, allowing you to easily peek at your newborn and reassure yourself (and them) that all is well. Keeping them close makes it easy to hear when they’re starting to wake up or get fussy, signaling it’s almost time for a cuddle or a feeding. They’re a perfect solution for parents who want baby close by but prefer not to bed-share, which the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against.

However, not all parents will find having baby so near to be the best fit. If you’re a light sleeper or find that hearing every little grunt and squeak ramps up your anxiety, placing your baby to sleep in the nursery crib might be a better option for everyone’s sanity. Make sure to discuss with your pediatrician to determine what’s right for your family.

 

How Long Can a Baby Snooze in a Bassinet? 

Bassinets are the cozy cribs for your newborn until they start showing off their mobility skills - like moving around, pushing up on those little hands, or rolling over. This milestone usually happens somewhere between three and five months old. Remember, some bassinets come with weight limits too, which can vary based on the model you've got. Happy bassinet shopping!

 

What's the Best Bassinet for Your Newborn?

Choosing the perfect bassinet for your little one boils down to your personal style and budget. Here’s a fun yet practical guide to help you navigate your options:

  • Footprint. How much space are you working with in your bedroom? This often determines the size of the bassinet you'll want. Living in a cozy apartment? Opt for a bassinet with smart designs and multiple functions to maximize its utility.
  • Portability. Planning to take your bassinet along for family visits or simply want to move it around the house? Perks like a compact fold or wheels are incredibly handy features to consider.
  • Height and Weight Limits. If you envision letting your baby snooze in their bassinet for an extended period, look for one with higher weight limits. If you only need it short-term, this feature might not be as crucial.
  • Motion. Enter the world of smart bassinets, where tech meets baby care! These high-tech beds come with motion, sound, lights, and even vibration. Some can detect and respond to your baby’s cries or learn sleep patterns to soothe before waking up fully. Keep in mind, though, that these gizmo-packed options can be pricier. While some parents find them life-changing, others see no added benefit.
  • Budget. Be realistic about your budget if you're the one purchasing the bassinet. Also, think about whether you plan to use the bassinet for future siblings. Investing in a high-quality, durable bassinet might cost more initially but can pay off in the long run.

 

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing a bassinet. Weigh your options and pick what feels right for you and your baby. Happy bassinet hunting!

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