
When I was expecting my first baby, I faced the daunting decision of whether to buy a bassinet or crib. I found that size, portability, and purpose were the main factors in deciding between the two.
Understanding these differences helped me consider my parenting goals and lifestyle needs. Do you plan to room-share with your newborn? Is a budget-friendly choice a priority, or would you prefer a bed that will last into toddlerhood? Knowing what’s most important to you can make the decision feel less daunting and help you start this exciting journey with confidence.
Differences Between a Bassinet and a Crib

A bassinet is a small, basket-like bed designed to give newborns a cozy, secure space for sleep. They are portable and easy to keep right beside your bed, which makes nighttime feeds and soothing simpler. There are different types of bassinets to choose from: traditional, smart, bedside, and moses.
Cribs, on the other hand, are larger and sturdier, making them a long-term sleep solution that can last until toddlerhood. There are also different types of cribs: traditional, mini, shaped, and convertibles.
Bassinet | Crib | |
Convenience | Portable and lightweighted | Sturdy and stationary. |
Size | Small — can be placed in a small bedroom near the parents’ bed | Big — unless you have a big bedroom, it won’t fit in the same room as the parents’ bed |
Safety | Safe for newborns and little babies | Safe for larger babies and toddlers |
Price | Cheaper than cribs except for smart models. However, your newborn will grow out of it quickly. | More expensive than traditional bassinets, but they last till toddler years |
Length of use | Can be used until 4 or 6 months after the baby is born | Can be used from newborn to toddler years |
Convenience
Bassinets: They are designed with flexibility in mind. They are lightweight and easy to move, allowing you to keep your baby close wherever you are in the house. This convenience is helpful in the newborn stage when feedings and check-ins are frequent.
Cribs: They are made to be stationary. Their larger size and durable structure mean that once they’re set up, they stay in place. While they lack the easy mobility of a bassinet, cribs provide a lasting, dependable spot for your little one to sleep, making them a solid long-term choice.
Size
Bassinets: If you have limited space, a bassinet can be an ideal option for your little one. Its compact size makes it easy to fit in tight spaces, such as a smaller bedroom or next to your bed, without overcrowding the room.
Cribs: If you have a larger bedroom or extra space to work with, starting with a crib can be a practical option. Since cribs are larger, they offer a roomier sleep space for your baby and eliminate the need for a transition as your newborn grows.
Safety
Bassinets: They are a safe option for newborns up to about 6 months. They are made to hold small infants, typically weighing 15 to 20 pounds. However, safety depends on more than just weight. Once your little one starts rolling over or sitting up, a bassinet is no longer safe.
Make sure to abide by the following safety guidelines:
- Sturdy base and stable frame to prevent tipping
- Firm, flat mattress that fits snugly against the sides
- Breathable sides
- Respect your bassinet weight limits
- Keep the bassinet free from loose objects like toys or blankets
Cribs: They provide a secure space for babies to sleep from the newborn stage through the toddler years. Their sturdy design and safe structure help prevent falls or escapes. Just keep in mind that experts recommend room-sharing with your baby for at least the first 6 months.
For a safe crib setup, here are some important crib safety tips to consider:
- Firm, flat mattress. To learn more, read our article: “Crib Mattress Size Guide: What to Know as a New Parent.”
- Slats should be close together (No more than 2 3/8 inches apart)
- Avoid missing or cracked slats
- No corner posts over one-sixteenth inch high
- No cutouts on the headboard
- Keep the crib in your room for the first 6 months
- Keep the crib free from any loose objects like toys or blankets
Price
Bassinet: Bassinets are more budget-friendly than cribs. Traditional models start around $50, making them an affordable choice. If you are interested in more advanced features, like automatic rocking or sleep-tracking, smart bassinets can go up to $1,700.
Cribs: They are more expensive than bassinets. Prices range from $90 for basic models to $2,600 for luxury or convertible styles.
Length of Use
Bassinets: They are designed for the early months of your baby’s life. You can use a bassinet until the child starts to roll over, sit up, or reach the weight limit, which is generally around 4 to 6 months. This means that their shorter lifespan will require you to transition to a different option fairly quickly.
Cribs: Cribs offer a longer period of use compared to bassinets. They are suitable for newborns and can be used well into the toddler years. Some cribs are made to grow with your little one, with convertible options that turn into toddler beds or even full-sized beds.
FAQs About Bassinets and Cribs
What are the different types of cribs?
There are different types of cribs to choose from, including standard cribs, mini cribs, shaped cribs, and convertible cribs.
What’s the weight limit of a bassinet?
Most bassinets have a weight limit ranging from 15 to 20 pounds, but it’s important to check the specific weight and age limits for the bassinet you choose. Each model may have different guidelines, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure your baby’s safety.
Can I add a small pillow for my newborn into a bassinet or crib?
No, newborns don’t need pillows in their bassinets or cribs. Items like toys, blankets, and extra bedding can pose a safety risk.
Your Baby, Your Choice
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, as each baby and family has unique needs. Some parents find that having a crib in their room is all they need, especially if their little one sleeps soundly in a larger space.
For my family, a bassinet was ideal. My precious babies woke frequently and needed comforting, so a co-sleeping bassinet made nighttime easier. We eventually transitioned straight to Montessori beds without needing a crib.
Take some time to understand your baby’s personality, your routines, and what will work best in your home. Whether you choose a bassinet, a crib, or both, focus on creating a sleep space that feels safe and comfortable for your baby, gives you peace of mind, and helps everyone get a restful night’s sleep.
Main Photo Credit: Ekaterina Pokrovsky / Adobe Stock Free / License