How Long Can a Baby Sleep In a Bassinet? — Safety Guide

When I had my first baby, I was unsure whether to use a bassinet or a crib. After some sleepless nights, I found that keeping my baby close in a bassinet made night feedings easier.

But before choosing a bassinet, it’s important to understand how long a baby can sleep in a bassinet and when to stop using it.

Manufacturers recommend using a bassinet for 5 to 6 months. You should stop when your baby weighs more than 15 to 25 lbs. There’s no fixed number to remember because it depends on your specific bassinet.

Sleeping in a small or uncomfortable space is not suitable for a growing baby. It can affect their health, growth, and overall well-being.

I remember when my son was around five months old, he started getting restless in his bassinet. He would constantly move, making it clear that he needed more space to stretch out. That’s when I knew it was time to transition him to a crib.

Dr. Fern Hauck, Professor of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences at the University of Virginia: “Once an infant shows signs of rolling over, it’s crucial to transition them from a bassinet to a crib to ensure a safe sleep environment.” (AAFP)

Using a bassinet beyond the recommended limit may also increase the risk of SIDS and bassinet collapse. But is that really true? Let’s look at the factors and evidence about how long a baby can sleep in a bassinet.

We’ll also discuss when to move them out. What do pediatricians recommend? 💡 So, let’s dive in!

How Long Can a Baby Sleep In a Bassinet? 

The longevity of a bassinet depends on two primary factors: age and weight limit. Your baby’s age helps determine how long they can be comfortable in the bassinet. The weight limit tells you how much the bassinet can safely support.

For example, if your baby is 5 months old and has outgrown the bassinet, it may no longer meet their needs for growth and comfort.

On the other hand, if your baby is 7 months old and still fits in the bassinet but exceeds the weight limit, it can become a safety hazard.

Using a bassinet beyond its weight limit increases the risk of collapse, which could lead to serious injury.

Bassinet Age & Weight Limits

Standard age and weight recommendations for different types of bassinets:

• Bassinet: 4–6 months, 15–25 lbs
• Moses Basket: 3–5 months, no weight limit (base touches the floor)
• Co-Sleeper Bassinet: 4–5 months, no weight limit (base touches the floor)
• Bedside Bassinet: 4–6 months, 20–30 lbs

📢 In conclusion, a bassinet’s lifespan depends on its size and weight capacity. On average, babies can sleep in a bassinet for about 4–5 months before reaching the 15–25 lb limit.

Other Factors To Consider!

Age and weight limits aren’t the only things to watch when deciding if your baby should stop using a bassinet. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) points out several other safety concerns that can increase risks:

• Babies rolling over in the bassinet
• The risk of suffocation
• Reduced airflow in an enclosed space

💡 Being aware of these additional factors will help you make a better, safer decision about when it’s time to move your baby to a crib. Let’s take a closer look!

When To Stop Using Bassinet? – Timely & Safely

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), you should stop using the bassinet if your baby:

• Begins rolling over or pushing up
• Exceeds the age or weight limit specified by the manufacturer
• Shows signs of discomfort or restlessness

👩‍⚕️ These signs—whichever comes first—mean it’s time to transition to a crib for safety.

I made the mistake of waiting too long to move my baby. One night, I found him halfway rolled over—and it scared me.

That moment made me realize safety should always come first, and we switched to a crib the very next day.

Trust me, it’s better to move your baby sooner rather than later. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide: So, let’s dive in!

1.) Newborn Rolling to the Side in a Bassinet

If your baby starts rolling in the bassinet while sleeping, their risk of suffocation increases significantly.

🩺 According to WebMD: About 3,500 infants die every year in the U.S. from sleep-related deaths.

But how does this happen? Imagine you’re asleep in the middle of the night. Your baby rolls over, and their face gets pressed against the bassinet’s side wall.

Babies don’t have the strength to move their heads or turn back like adults do. This lack of mobility increases the risk of suffocation.

Some bassinets have mesh side walls or mesh windows, which allow better airflow and help reduce suffocation risks.

That’s why many parents prefer mesh-sided bassinets.

Now the question is: When do infants start rolling over? Or at what age do babies begin to turn?

According to Help Me Grow MN, newborns usually begin to:

• Rock or roll from side to side around 4 months
• Roll over in both directions (tummy to back and back to tummy) by 6 months

💡 Understanding these milestones helps you know when a bassinet may no longer be safe for your little one.

Average Age To Roll Over in a Bassinet

Can Baby Sleep in Bassinet If Rolling Over?

No, it is not safe. According to the AAP, you should stop using the bassinet once your baby starts rolling in it, as this position increases the risk of suffocation.

So, how can you prevent your newborn from rolling in a bassinet?

To help stop your baby from rolling, consider using an anti-rolling blanket or bassinet insert. These are designed to keep your baby safe and secure while they sleep.

They can be safely attached to the bassinet or crib to ensure your baby doesn’t roll or turn over during sleep.

If your newborn starts rolling in the bassinet, it’s time to stop using it. However, make sure not to move your infant to a separate room too soon.

According to AAP recommendations, babies should stay in the same room as their parents for about 12 months, or at least 6 months, to reduce the risk of SIDS.

👩‍⚕️ Dr. Rachel Moon, Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Task Force on SIDS:
“The AAP recommends that infants sleep in the parents’ room, close to the parents’ bed, but on a separate surface designed for infants, ideally for at least the first six months.” (AAP)

Keeping your baby’s bassinet, crib, or play yard in your room for the first 6–12 months lowers the risk of SIDS and makes it easier to feed, monitor, and comfort your baby at night.

Need help with the next step? Here’s a helpful guide: How To Transit Baby From Bassinet to Crib

#2. Keep an Eye on Age & Weight

The size of your baby’s sleeping area helps determine how long they can safely stay in a bassinet.

Most bassinets are designed for babies up to 4 to 6 months old. After that, your baby may feel cramped and uncomfortable, which means it’s time to stop using it.

Now, what if your baby was born premature? In that case, they may need more time before outgrowing their bassinet—possibly beyond 6 months.

The same goes for the bassinet weight limit. Most models are safe for babies up to 15–30 lbs, depending on design. 👉 See: Bassinets That Hold Up to 30 Pounds)

Some babies grow faster than others and may exceed the weight limit before reaching the expected age.

That’s why your personal observation is so important.

Check this helpful chart based on CDC growth data:

Sources:

• CDC Growth Chart for Boys
• CDC Growth Chart for Girls

📢 Do not use the bassinet once your baby exceeds the recommended weight. It’s not designed to support more—and using it anyway can lead to collapse and serious injury.

Ask Before Moving Your Baby Out of the Bassinet!

I asked myself a few important questions before moving my little one to a crib—and it made the decision so much easier. At first, I felt guilty taking him out of the bassinet. But after seeing how much better he slept in the crib, I knew I made the right choice.

💡 To help you decide when to transition your baby, ask yourself these three key questions:

• Has your baby reached the recommended age limit for the bassinet?
• Has your baby exceeded the weight limit?
• Is your baby uncomfortable, even if they’re still within the limits?

📢 Note: Your child’s safety depends on your judgment and awareness. Always check your bassinet instruction manual to ensure proper setup and stay informed on bassinet recalls for added safety.

Word of Advice

Every family has its own needs and preferences, and that’s totally okay. This guide highlights the most important factors for deciding how long your baby can stay in a bassinet and when it’s time to transition them out.

💡 Don’t rush the decision. Take your time and assess your baby’s current behavior, growth, and comfort. If your baby isn’t rolling over or sitting up yet, and they’re still under the weight limit, you don’t need to worry just yet.

Besides age and weight, always think about comfort. A bassinet should offer enough space for your baby to stretch, relax, and sleep soundly.

Choosing a bassinet made with soft, breathable materials and modern safety features—like a modern bassinet—can help you create a safe and cozy sleeping space for your little one.

This guide is here to help you make the best choice for your baby’s safety and comfort.

Q: When Is a Baby Too Big for Bassinet?

A: A baby outgrows a bassinet when they weigh more than the limit (usually 15–20 lbs), begin to roll over, or become very active. Most babies outgrow their bassinets by 4 to 6 months. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for safety.

Q: What Age Do Babies Outgrow Bassinet?

A: Most babies outgrow their bassinets between 4 and 6 months old. If they start rolling over, sitting up, or exceed the weight limit, the bassinet is no longer safe. Moving to a crib ensures a more secure sleep environment.

💡 Still want to use a bassinet? Consider a bassinet for big babies or one designed for up to 12 months.

Q: Can Baby Suffocate on Side of Bassinet?

A: Yes. If the bassinet has non-mesh sides, a baby’s face can get pressed against it, blocking airflow and causing suffocation. To prevent this, use a breathable mesh bassinet and always place your baby on their back to sleep.

Q: Is a Bassinet Safe for a Rolling Baby?

A: No. Once your baby starts rolling over, the bassinet becomes unsafe. Rolling increases the risk of suffocation if the baby presses against the sides. At this stage, transition to a crib for safer sleep.

Q: Can a Baby Outgrow a Bassinet Before 3 Months?

A: Yes. Some babies grow faster and may outgrow a bassinet before 3 months. If your baby is too heavy, seems cramped, or moves a lot during sleep, it’s time to switch to a crib sooner. Learn more about the differences between bassinets and cribs.

Q: How To Know When a Baby Outgrows a Bassinet?

A: Your baby has outgrown the bassinet if they start to roll over, push up, or exceed the weight limit. Signs like restlessness or a tight sleeping space also indicate it’s time to move to a crib. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Q: How Long Does Bassinet Last?

A: Most bassinets are designed for about 4 to 6 months of use, depending on your baby’s size and weight. If your baby hits the weight limit or seems uncomfortable, it’s time to transition to a crib.

Q: When To Stop Using Bedside Bassinet?

A: Stop using a bedside bassinet when your baby is 4–6 months old or weighs 20–30 lbs. If your baby starts rolling over, pushing up, or trying to sit, switch to a crib for safety.

Q: When To Stop Using Co-Sleeper?

A: Stop using a co-sleeper when your baby is around 4 to 5 months old. You should also stop sooner if they begin rolling, pushing up, or attempting to sit. With co-sleepers, mobility—not weight—is the key safety factor.