Bassinet

A bassinet is a compact sleep space designed for the newborn stage, typically used from birth until a baby starts to roll, push up on hands and knees, or reaches the manufacturer's weight or height limit, whichever comes first. Bassinets take up far less floor space than a crib, which makes them a common first sleep setup in small apartments and shared bedrooms.

Most bassinets are freestanding on a stand, though some styles are designed to sit flush against an adult bed as a bedside sleeper. Because a bassinet is only meant for the first few months, many small-space parents pair it with a mini crib or full crib as the next step once the baby outgrows it, rather than trying to make one piece of furniture last through toddlerhood.

When choosing a bassinet, check the specific age, weight and mobility limits the manufacturer lists, since these vary by model and matter more than a general age guideline. Look for a firm, flat mattress that fits the bassinet frame with no gaps, and a stable base that will not tip if bumped. A common mistake is continuing to use a bassinet past the point a baby can push up or roll, which is exactly when a manufacturer's limit is meant to catch.