Keeping Baby Close and Safe
It’s completely natural for parents to want their newborns close by. Dr. William Sears, a board-certified pediatrician, recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents, but not in the same bed, for at least the first year. Room-sharing allows parents to respond quickly to feeding needs and offers emotional reassurance for both parent and child.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that co-sleeping, meaning sharing a bed, is not safe under any circumstances. The safest setup is a separate sleep surface, such as a bassinet, that allows closeness without risk. A well-designed bassinet offers the perfect compromise between proximity and safety.
Safety Standards to Look For
When shopping for a bassinet, the first thing parents should check is safety certification. Look for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) labels — both are trusted indicators that a product meets or exceeds established safety standards. These certifications ensure the bassinet has passed rigorous testing for stability, materials, and construction quality.
It’s also important to review the manufacturer’s age and weight recommendations. For example, Arm’s Reach® Co-Sleeper® bassinets are designed for infants up to about five months old, or until a baby begins to push up on hands and knees — whichever comes first. Once your child reaches this stage, it’s time to transition to a crib to maintain a safe sleep environment.
Portability and Convenience
One of the main advantages of a bassinet is portability. Many models are lightweight and easy to move from room to room, making them a convenient choice for parents who want to keep their baby close during naps or overnight travel. This flexibility can make a huge difference in those early months, when having your baby nearby can simplify nighttime feeding and provide peace of mind.
Firm Support and Safe Sleep
A safe bassinet isn’t just about sturdy construction, because the mattress matters, too. Babies should sleep on a firm, flat surface. A soft or overly flexible mattress may seem comfortable but can actually pose suffocation risks. Parents should always check that the mattress is firm enough to hold a baby’s weight without sagging, and that the sheet fits snugly around it.
The Benefits of Keeping Baby Within Arm’s Reach
Having your baby within reach at night can promote bonding and make those countless nighttime feedings a little easier. The Arm’s Reach® Co-Sleeper® bassinet, first introduced in 1997, was the pioneer in this space. It securely attaches to a parent’s bed, creating a safe and convenient setup that allows parents to comfort their baby without getting up. All while maintaining a separate sleep surface.
This proximity helps parents and babies feel connected, especially in the first few months when establishing sleep routines and emotional security is so important.
Final Thoughts
A bassinet can be a wonderful addition to your nursery, especially during your baby’s first months of life. When choosing one, prioritize safety certifications, age guidelines, and firm mattress support. Think about how it will fit into your home and daily routine, whether that means portability for flexible sleeping arrangements or easy access for nighttime care.
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