Newborns sleep a lot. Hence, you should invest time and effort in choosing the right sleepers for your babies. The most popular choices for newborns are mini cribs and bassinets. What works better for your little angel?
In this article, we will show you how to tell the differences between the two items. Then, you can come up with the ideal one.
The Difference Between Bassinets vs Mini Cribs
These sleepers are safe and suitable options for your babies. However, since they aim to serve different purposes, you can quickly notice them.
Purpose
The mini-crib is a small version of regular cribs. It works best for:
- Parents on a limited budget
- Parents living in a small space
- Twins using the same room
- A separate room for your baby
Also, a bassinet is a bed designed for portability. Parents see this sleeper as a:
- Temporary alternative to a crib
- A convenient method for breastfeeding or C-section moms to take care of their babies
Dimensions
Mini cribs come in a variety of sizes. The width is mostly 28 inches, sometimes 26 inches. Meanwhile, its length varies from 26 to 41 inches.
On the other hand, bassinets are available in a variety of shapes and styles. Hence, it’s hard to define the average dimension of these items.
For example, you may find a bassinet that is:
- Basket-organizer shape vs wicker basket cot shape
- Oval vs round shape
- Lightweight vs heavy
In the table below, you can compare the sizes of some popular mini crib and bassinet models.
| Bassinet Vs Mini Crib | Dimensions (L x W x H) |
|---|---|
| Babyletto Gelato 4-in-1 Mini Crib | 40″ x 26″ x 35″ |
| Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib | 39″ x 26″ x 36″ |
| DaVinci Autumn 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib | 43″ x 27″ x 44″ |
| DaVinci Jenny Lind 3-in-1 Mini Crib | 40″ x 26″ x 37″ |
| DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 Mini Crib with Trundle Drawer | 41″ x 26″ x 35″ |
| Million Dollar Baby Classic Winston 4-in-1 Mini Crib | 40″ x 26″ x 42″ |
| Delta Children Emery Convertible Mini Crib | 26″ x 41″ x 38″ |
| Graco Stella 4-in-1 Mini Crib | 26″ x 41″ x 41″ |
| Dream On Me Aden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib | 39″ x 28″ x 38″ |
| Dream On Me Violet 4-in-1 Mini Crib | 42″ x 36″ x 25″ |
| Storkcraft Petal 5-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib | 28″ x 43″ x 42″ |
| BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh 2-in-1 Mini Crib | 41″ x 28″ x 37″ |
| Stokke Sleepi Mini Oval Crib | 33″ x 26″ x 34″ |
| SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Bassinet | 36″ x 19″ x 32″ |
| Fisher Price Luminate Bassinet | 36″ x 22″ x 32″ |
| Chicco Close to You 3-in-1 Bassinet | 34″ x 28″ x 46″ |
| Ingenuity Dream & Grow Bassinet | 35″ x 27″ x 34″ |
| Cloud Baby Premium Baby Bassinet | 35″ x 28″ x 39″ |
| Maxi-Cosi Iora Bedside Bassinet | 37″ x 22″ x 29″ |
| Graco Sense2Snooze Bassinet | 26″ x 19″ x 41″ |
| MiClassic All mesh 2in1 Bassinet | 37″ x 24″ x 11″ |
| Halo Swivel Bassinet | 47″ x 47″ x 45″ |
| Mika Micky Baby Bassinet | 36″ x 22″ x 33″ |
| AMKE Baby Bassinet | 37″ x 22″ x 27″ |
| Arm’s Reach Clear-Vue Bassinet | 34″ x 20″ x 35″ |
Durability
Because mini cribs can accommodate bigger babies and children up to the age of two, they beat their competitors in this round.
Moreover, the materials used for these cribs are more solid and durable. The metal or wood construction makes them heavier and more robust.
Longevity
You can use mini cribs until your baby reaches the age of two, as long as he still loves his sleeping place and doesn’t try to climb out.
Another benefit of these sleepers is that you can convert them into toddler beds, lengthening their lifespan.
On the other hand, bassinets are only suitable for 4-month-old babies. Some premium models, like the SNOO Smart Bassinet, can serve until your baby is six months old. However, consider carefully because your baby will outgrow the sleeper soon.
Portability
Because of its wheels and lightweight materials, you can easily move a bassinet from room to room. Some people even assume that these models are more portable than mini cribs.
Some mini crib models have wheels and are foldable. However, bassinets are still a better choice for portability when comparing the two.
Setup
Installing a mini crib is similar to putting together a standard crib. As a result, based on your level of furniture assembly skill, it may take a bit of time.
You may have to fix a regular crib to a permanent position. Meanwhile, some mini versions allow you to move them around and are easy to disassemble.
If you don’t like assembling, a bassinet should be your way to go. You can use and disassemble it whenever needed.
Because portability is one of the main features of bassinets, you can even pack them for traveling. Hence, installing them is a breeze.
Accessories
In comparison to a crib, mini versions lack a diversity of accessories. Some, meanwhile, have shelves, storage, and even toys. Some models are also foldable, allowing them to work as a toddler bed.
On the other hand, bassinets don’t have a lot of accessories. Some arrive with a canopy, while others include toys, a vibrating element, and music.
A bassinet has fewer accessories than its competitor because it primarily acts as a sleeping place rather than an entertaining area.
Mattress
The mini crib mattress is smaller than that of the regular version, but they have similar features. Meanwhile, because bassinets come in various shapes, their mattress shouldn’t be the same. Hence, choosing a separate mattress may be difficult.
Both sleepers arrive with specialized mattresses to fit their size; however, some parents complain that these cushions are not comfortable. As a result, they decide to buy a separate one.
Features
When buying a mini-crib, you should look for these features:
- Folding: This feature helps parents with limited space and handle the sleeper easily.
- Convertibility: Some models convert into a bed.
- Wheels: Wheels make the item move smoothly.
- Storage: You may need some space for your baby stuff, such as diapers.
If you prefer a bassinet, here are some features it should have:
- Folding: A foldable sleeper allows you to move it quickly and travel with it.
- Motion: A sleeper that has motion can help ease your baby into slumber. The 4moms mamaRoo Bassinet deserves some attention with 5 Unique Motions.
- Height: You can adjust the sleeper to fit the height of your bed.
Price
Mini cribs are more expensive due to their solid construction. However, it’s better to consider the item’s value than solely looking at the price tag.
These cribs can work for longer. Your baby can even consider these sleepers his private bedroom. Even when he grows bigger, these sleepers can transform into a bed and accompany him in his sleep.
Comparison Table
So now you can picture the differences between mini cribs vs bassinets. This comparison table will help you sum them up.
| Criteria | Mini Crib | Bassinet |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | A separate bedroom for babies | A small bed that is portable and works for a short time |
| Dimensions | Length: 26″ to 41″
Width: 26″ to 43″ Height: 25″ to 44″ |
Length: 26″ to 37″
Width: 19″ to 47″ Height: 11″ to 46″ |
| Durability | Good | Moderate |
| Longevity | For babies from birth to two years old | For babies from birth to four months old |
| Portability | Good | Excellent |
| Setup | Harder | Easier |
| Accessories | More accessories | Fewer accessories |
| Mattress | Maybe uncomfortable | Maybe uncomfortable |
| Features | Folding
Convertibility Wheels Storage |
Folding
Motion Height Storage |
| Price | More expensive | Cheaper |
Pros and Cons
Here is an overview of the benefits and drawbacks when buying the two sleepers.
| Mini Crib | Bassinet |
|---|---|
Pros:
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Pros:
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Cons:
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Cons:
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Is A Mini Crib Or Bassinet Better?
Mini cribs are better than their competitors regarding the time of use. Some models are convertible into toddler beds. However, the portability feature of bassinets is unbeatable. Breastfeeding moms and those who often travel would prefer these sleepers.
FAQ
1. Do you need a bassinet if you have a mini crib?
No. Both sleepers can give babies a comfortable and safe place to sleep. The mini cribs even outweigh bassinets because they can work until your child reaches two years old.
Meanwhile, you can’t use a bassinet for babies older than four months old. However, if you need portability or other smart features like Automatic Rocking Motions, Soothing White Noise, etc., you should still own a bassinet.
2. Do mini crib sheets fit a bassinet?
A bassinet comes in various sizes and shapes. You have to take some measurements to determine which sheet can fit it.
If your baby can’t sleep on a nicely-fit mattress and sheet, there will be more risks of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
3. Should newborns sleep in a bassinet or a mini crib?
Both sleepers are excellent for newborns. Breastfeeding mothers may prefer the bassinets because they can access their babies quickly. However, these sleepers are not a long-term investment. Due to the small sizes, you have to change them soon and find another sleeper to fit your baby’s size when he grows bigger.
Conclusion
The main differences between mini cribs and bassinets are the dimensions and lifespan. Mini cribs are bigger, more durable, and able to work for longer. Yet, bassinets can move freely, making them suitable for breastfeeding mothers.
Hopefully, our comparison has helped you find out which sleeper is the best for your baby.
