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About bassinets and cradles
A bassinet or cradle is a bed used for babies from birth until they start to roll over.
Generally, a bassinet has fixed legs or is on wheels, while a cradle makes a rocking motion.
Use this product safety guide for bedside sleepers too.
New product safety rules
New mandatory standards for these products were introduced on 18 July 2024. Businesses have 18 months to meet the new rules.
The new standards aim to reduce the risk of death and injury from products that babies do or may fall asleep in. See products that are safe for baby to sleep in.
Risks and injuries from the product
Babies are at risk of serious injuries or sudden death if they are not placed in a safe sleep environment.
Babies can fall out of a bassinet or cradle and suffer serious injuries if:
- it tips over
- the bottom breaks
- the sides aren’t high enough
- the bassinet folding legs collapse
- the cradle rocking lock isn’t used
- the bassinet or cradle is used once baby has started to push up on their hands and knees or they’ve reached the recommended maximum weight.
Babies can suffocate if the bassinet or cradle:
- has the wrong mattress
- uses pillows, bumpers or folded quilts
- has soft toys or sleep aids placed inside.
Babies are also at risk of strangulation or burns. Don’t set the bassinet or cradle up within reach of:
- blinds
- curtain cords
- heaters
- electrical appliances, or
- decorative mobiles.
Things to look for when buying the product
Babies can be injured while using bassinets or cradles. For this reason, 2 new mandatory standards have been introduced that suppliers must comply with by 19 January 2026.
Design and construction
- The base is wide, stable and sturdy, so it won’t tip over.
- The mattress is firm, flat, fits snug and is no more than 7.5 cm thick.
- It has 4 sides that are at least 25 cm higher than the top of the mattress base.
- It includes a permanent child-resistant lock to stop it from rocking, if a cradle.
Marks and labels
Suppliers will be required to comply with the mandatory standards from 19 January 2026. From this date, bassinets and cradles must:
- have simple and visible safety warning statements
- come with instructions for safe assembly and use.
Second-hand bassinets and cradles
If you decide to use, buy or borrow a second-hand bassinet or cradle make sure:
- the product hasn't been recalled
- it includes the instructions for safe assembly and use
- all of its parts are in good working order.
For tips and more information, see Buy second-hand products that are safe.
How to use the product safely
Keep your baby safe by following this guidance.
Set up and maintain the bassinet or cradle safely
When setting up or checking your bassinet or cradle, make sure you:
- follow the product assembly instructions
- follow product guidelines for your baby’s age, height and development
- regularly check that screws and bolts are tight to avoid accidental collapse
- check the folding legs can’t accidentally fold during use (if your bassinet has folding legs).
Create a safe sleep environment for your baby
Always put your baby to sleep in a safe environment. Make sure you:
- put baby on their back on a flat, firm and level surface with their head and face uncovered
- maintain good breathability and ventilation on all sides of the bassinet or cradle, avoid padded sides
- never put baby to sleep in an inclined or propped position
- keep bassinets or cradles in a clear space so babies can’t reach unsafe things
- remove any soft toys and sleep aids
- never use pillows, bumpers or folded quilts
- stop using a bassinet or cradle once your baby shows signs of being able to push up on their hands and knees or they’ve reached the recommended maximum weight in the product guidelines
- use the rocking cradle lock when your baby is sleeping or unattended.
Make sure you follow the Red Nose safe sleep advice. This includes:
