Bassinettes

Babies can be injured if a bassinette tips over, the bottom breaks or the folding legs collapse. Use our tips for buying and using bassinettes.

About bassinettes

A bassinette is a small bed for young babies that is normally used temporarily for the first few months before babies become active. After that time, it is safer to move a baby to a cot.

Risks and injuries

Infants can fall out of a bassinette and suffer serious injuries if:

  • the bassinette tips over
  • the bottom breaks
  • the folding legs collapse
  • the sides are not high enough.

Babies can also suffocate if the bassinette has the wrong mattress or if you use pillows or folded quilts as mattresses.

Buying tips

  • Ensure the sides of the bassinette are at least 300 mm higher than the top of the mattress base.
  • Ensure it has a wide stable base and a sturdy bottom so that it won’t tip over.
  • Ensure the mattress fits well and is firm, smooth and no more than 75 mm thick.
  • If the product has folding legs, make sure it cannot accidentally fold during use.

Safe use

  • Follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions.
  • Follow guidelines on the appropriate weight and size of babies who can safely use the product.
  • Keep the bassinette clear of curtains, blinds, heaters or power points.
  • Regularly check that screws and bolts are tight to avoid accidental collapse.
  • Trim decorative bows and ribbons so they are short, and stitch them securely to prevent strangulation.
  • Never use pillows or folded quilts in a bassinette as these can cause suffocation.

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