Are Moses Basket Safe for Newborn? [ New Guideline In 2025 ]

Every newborn needs a warm, safe sleep space close to their parents, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). But with so many options available, where should your newborn sleep?

Some pediatricians support co-sleeping. Others suggest bedside sleeping to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

But with all these choices—Moses baskets, bassinets, cribs, and Pack ‘N Plays—how do you know which one is right for your baby?

If you’re considering a Moses basket bassinet, it’s important to understand its limitations.

Knowing where to place it, how to use it safely, and when to transition to a crib is essential for your baby’s well-being.

So, are Moses baskets safe for overnight sleep—or just better for naps?

This article covers everything you need to know, including safety guidelines and expert recommendations, so you can choose what’s best for your newborn.

Are Moses Basket Safe for Overnight Sleeping or Just for Naps?

Yes, Moses baskets can be used for overnight sleep—but only until your baby can roll or push up on their hands. Once your baby reaches this stage, both the AAP and CPSC recommend discontinuing overnight use. After that, it’s safer to use them for daytime naps or as a changing station.

For overnight sleep, always ensure:

• The basket is placed on a flat, stable surface (never on a bed or couch).
• You’re using a firm, thin mattress with a snug fitted sheet (no blankets or extras).
• Your baby is always placed on their back to sleep.

When to Stop Using a Moses Basket for Overnight Sleep:

• Your baby starts rolling or pushing up (usually around 3–4 months).
• Your baby seems cramped or uncomfortable in the basket.
• The basket shows any signs of wear or instability.

Hidden Risks: Loose Fabrics, Rolling, Unstable Stands

Many parents add soft liners or extra padding to make the basket look more comfortable, but this can be dangerous. If the baby rolls onto their side or face, loose fabric can block their airways. This can lead to suffocation.

🎥 Watch this lab experiment to see how a baby can suffocate if the fabric is loose or if infants roll in the bassinet:

👩‍🍼 What Parents Say:
“I loved my Moses basket for the first couple of months, but once my baby started moving, I felt it wasn’t stable enough for overnight sleep.”
– Reddit Parent Review

When To Stop Using a Moses Basket? – Safety Checklist

There are no official guidelines from the AAP or CPSC on when to stop using a Moses basket. However, a good general rule is to stop once your baby starts rolling or seems uncomfortable in the space.

Most manufacturers recommend stopping use around 4–5 months of age. While there is typically no specific weight limit when the basket is used on the floor, it’s a different story if you’re using a stand.

If your Moses basket includes a stand, stop using it when your baby:

• Reaches 15–20 lbs, or
• Exceeds the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit

Age Limit & Weight Limit of Moses Basket

The basket should never be placed:

• On a bed or couch
• On an inclined surface
• Near pets or toddlers who may bump into it

💡 In 2015, Tadpoles Baby and Kids Moses Basket and Stand were recalled because they failed to meet safety standards. The recall was issued because the basket could slip off the stand, creating a fall risk.

👉 Lesson for Parents: When using a stand, choose one that meets safety certifications and includes a locking mechanism to keep the basket secure.

Moses Basket Bassinet Safety – Key Safety Concerns

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that Moses baskets are safe for newborns when they meet CPSC safety standards. These guidelines help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and ensure a safer sleep setup.

Here are the essential safety checks you should follow:

1. Must be sturdy enough to securely hold your baby
2. Must have an enclosed opening to prevent entrapment
3. Should be stable and not wobble
4. Sidewalls should be high enough to prevent falls
5. The basket should not contain small parts that could become choking hazards

While Moses baskets can be safe when used correctly, they do carry certain risks that parents should be aware of.

Pros and Cons of a Moses Basket

Moses baskets may not be right for every family. Consider other options if:

• Your baby moves a lot in their sleep – increases suffocation risk
• You need a long-term sleep solution – babies outgrow them quickly
• Your home has pets or toddlers – they could tip the basket
• You move the baby around the house often – no wheels like a bassinet
• You want a product backed by SIDS-specific research

Looking for a safer alternative? Check out the Best Baby Bassinets of 2025 for longer-lasting and more secure options.

Q: Can You Use a Moses Basket as a Bassinet?

A: Yes, you can use a Moses basket as a baby bassinet because it is simply another form of a bassinet. According to the AAP, bassinets are safe for babies as long as they meet all the requirements set by the CPSC. For more information on the differences, see our guide: Bassinet vs. Moses Basket.

Q: Are Moses Baskets SIDS Safe?

A: Moses baskets can contribute to SIDS prevention when used correctly. To ensure a safe sleeping environment for newborns:

• Avoid placing pillows, blankets, or bumpers inside the basket.
• Use a firm, flat mattress.
• Always lay the baby on their back for sleep or naps.
• Discontinue use once the baby outgrows the basket or becomes uncomfortable.

👶 Example: If your baby rolls into a loose liner, it can block airflow, increasing the risk of suffocation. Instead, keep the sleep space simple and minimal.

Q: Are Moses Basket Liners Safe?

A: Yes, a Moses basket liner is safe. It covers the sidewalls like a cot bumper. This helps protect the baby’s fingers and hands from getting stuck in the rattan or being hurt by sharp edges. However, you should always use high-quality liners in your Moses basket, as loose liners and bedding can pose a suffocation risk.

Q: Do You Need Bedding for a Moses Basket?

A: Definitely! Adding bedding to the Moses basket helps make the sleeping area cozier, which can help newborns sleep longer. However, ensure you don’t place a pillow or anything else that could increase the risk of SIDS.

Q: Do I Need a Waterproof Mattress Protector for a Moses Basket?

A: Yes, a waterproof mattress protector is highly recommended. It prevents sweat from being absorbed by the mattress, reducing allergy risks and prolonging its lifespan. Maintaining a clean sleeping environment is essential for the healthy development of newborns, so be sure to clean the mattress and protector properly.

Q: How Many Moses Basket Sheets Do I Need?

A: It’s recommended to have three sheets for a Moses basket:

• One for immediate use.
• One to be washed.
• One as a backup for emergencies, like vomit or leaky diapers.

This ensures your infant remains clean and dry at all times. For more insights on why three sheets are advisable, refer to our guide: How Many Bassinet Sheets Do You Need?

Q: How to Get a Newborn to Settle in a Moses Basket?

A: The best way to settle your infant in a Moses basket is by making their sleeping area comfortable and ensuring they feel safe. These two factors help babies sleep instantly in any sleeping environment.

To achieve this, you can:

• Swaddle the baby.
• Lay down with them for a while.
• Place a reassuring hand on their chest.
• Give them a warm bath.
• Establish a bedtime routine.

For more detailed guidance, refer to our comprehensive guide on helping newborns sleep in a bassinet. Still have questions? Drop a comment below, and we’ll help!