Key takeaways: Move your baby to a crib when they reach the bassinet’s weight or size limit, or when they start rolling, pushing up on hands and knees, or can sit, whichever comes first. Check the manufacturer’s limits. Make sure the crib meets current safety standards and has nothing in it but a fitted sheet.
Bassinets are handy in the early months, but babies outgrow them quickly.
When to Switch
Move your baby when any of these happen:
- Your baby reaches the bassinet’s weight or height limit. Check the label or manual.
- Your baby starts to roll over.
- Your baby pushes up on hands and knees.
- Your baby looks cramped or bumps the sides.
Many babies move between about 3 and 6 months.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers sleep month by month, alongside feeding, growth and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor.
Choosing a Safe Crib
Since 2011, federal standards in the U.S. ban drop-side cribs and require stronger slats and hardware. Look for:
- A crib made after June 2011 or that meets current CPSC standards.
- Slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart (about the width of a soda can).
- A firm, flat mattress that fits snugly, with no more than two fingers’ gap at the sides.
- No missing, broken, or loose parts.
- No cutouts in the headboard or footboard.
Setting Up the Crib
- Fitted sheet only.
- No bumpers, pillows, blankets, or toys. Padded crib bumpers are banned for sale in the U.S. under the Safe Sleep for Babies Act.
- Lower the mattress before your baby can sit up, and to the lowest position before they can stand.
- Place the crib away from windows, blind cords, and furniture your baby could climb.
Making the Transition
- Start with naps in the crib.
- Keep the routine the same.
- Keep the crib in your room if your baby is under 6 months, if space allows.
The Bottom Line
Move to a crib when your baby reaches the bassinet’s limits or starts rolling or pushing up. Choose a crib that meets current standards and keep it bare.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Room-Sharing Without Bed-Sharing: Setting Up a Safe Space
- When Your Baby Stands Up in the Crib
- Moving Your Baby to Their Own Room
- Setting Up a Safe Nursery
Sources
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Crib information center; bassinets. https://www.cpsc.gov
- Moon RY, Carlin RF, Hand I; Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome; Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Sleep-related infant deaths: updated 2022 recommendations for reducing infant deaths in the sleep environment. Pediatrics. 2022;150(1):e2022057990.
- Safe Sleep for Babies Act of 2022. Public Law 117-126.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
