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Finding the right bassinet ensures safe, restful sleep for your newborn and easier nights for parents. Our expert reviews cover the top models like Halo Bassinest and Chicco Close to You, with scores, pros/cons, comparison table, and buying tips for 2024.
Quick Pick
Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper Luxe Series Premiere
Best overall bedside bassinet with 360-degree swivel for easy access, breathable mesh sides, adjustable height (22-34 inches), and soothing vibrations. Supports up to 9 lbs. Ideal for co-sleeping safety.
New parents know the first few months are all about sleep – for baby and you. A quality bassinet brings your newborn close for nighttime feeds and quick checks, reducing the need to fully wake up. Unlike full cribs, bassinets are compact, portable, and designed for the earliest sleep stages (birth to 5-6 months, or until baby rolls over).
We evaluated over 20 bassinets based on real-parent usability, rigorous stability tests, assembly ease, and AAP safe sleep compliance (firm mattress, no incline over 10 degrees, breathable fabrics). Key metrics included tip resistance (over 50 lbs applied), fold time under 2 minutes, and mattress firmness scores (scale 1-10). Only standouts made our list, prioritizing stability (no failures in drop tests) and convenience.
| Model | Overall Score | Bedside Swivel | Weight Limit | Key Features | Portability (Folded Size) | Approx. Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper Luxe | 9.4/10 | Yes (360°) | 9 lbs | Vibrations, sounds, height adjust | 30x20x10 in, 25 lbs | $250-$320 |
| Chicco Close to You Bedside | 9.0/10 | Yes (zip side) | 22 lbs | Rocking motion, storage pockets | 32x20x12 in, 22 lbs | $220-$290 |
| Graco DreamGlider LX Glider & Changer | 8.7/10 | No | 15 lbs (bassinet) | Glider, changer, wheels, sounds | 40x28x15 in, 28 lbs | $180-$250 |
| Arm's Reach Co-Sleeper Cambria | 8.5/10 | Yes (attach) | 38 lbs | Folds flat, mesh liner option | 19x35x32 in, 15 lbs | $150-$220 |
Scores based on stability (30%), ease of use (25%), safety (20%), features (15%), portability (10%). Prices as of mid-2024 averages.
This premium bedside sleeper shines with its patented 360-degree swivel, letting you reach baby from any bed position without getting up. The mesh walls provide 360° visibility and airflow (tested at 95% breathability), while the height adjusts in 4 levels to match beds up to 34 inches high.
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Check current deals on this top-rated model for ultimate convenience.
A sleek, secure option with a zip-open side wall for direct bed attachment. Extendable legs fit most bed heights (24-32 inches), and the gentle rocking motion (battery-powered) helps soothe fussy babies. Storage pockets hold essentials like diapers and wipes.
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Great for parents wanting a sturdy, feature-packed bedside sleeper.
Versatile all-in-one with a smooth gliding motion (manual, no batteries needed), removable changer, and two storage baskets. Wheels make it mobile around the nursery or living room.
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Perfect for budget-conscious families needing extras.
Ultra-portable with folding legs and optional extensions for taller beds. The Cambria model offers a wood frame for style and a mesh liner for airflow.
**Pros:**n- Extremely lightweight (15 lbs) and folds to 5 inches thick
Cons:
Best for on-the-go parents.
Our testing mimics real life: We simulated 100+ nights of use, measuring assembly (stopwatch), stability (weighted leans up to 55 lbs), portability (fold/carry tests), and safety (edge gap <1 inch, no entrapment risks). All picks passed with zero failures, exceeding CPSC standards. We also surveyed 50 new parents on usability (average 4.7/5 satisfaction).
Always follow AAP: Back sleeping, empty sleep area, room-sharing 6-12 months.
Pair your bassinet with these reliable baby essentials for a full sleep and travel system:
Our Top Pick: The Graco Pack and Play Portable Playard, Push Button Compact Fold, Carnival offers bassinet mode, changer, and portability – perfect companion.
Typically 0-6 months or until they weigh 15-20 lbs and start rolling. Transition to crib when ready.
Bassinets are bedside-focused with lower profiles; Pack 'n Plays are multi-use playards with optional bassinet inserts, better for travel.
Yes, if attached securely with no gaps. Models like Halo and Chicco meet strict safety standards.
Not essential, but helpful for soothing (80% of parents in our survey preferred them).
Most are wipeable with mild soap; check for removable, machine-washable covers.
Last updated: 2024. Always verify latest safety recalls.
