How to Pick the Best Co-Sleeper Bassinet

1. How to Pick the Best Co-Sleeper Bassinet: A Safety Checklist for New Parents Bringing your newborn home is a mix of excitement and nerves—especially when it comes to sleep safety. Many parents want their baby close by during those early months, but bed-sharing can be risky. A co-sleeper bassinet offers the perfect solution, allowing your little one to sleep securely while staying right by your side. But with so many options available, how do you know which bassinet is truly safe? This guide breaks down the key safety features to look for, common red flags to avoid, and expert-approved bassinets that meet the highest standards. Hi, I’m Janice—a certified infant sleep consultant and mum of two. I’ve spent years helping families create safe, comfortable sleep environments for their little ones. Let’s explore what makes the best co-sleeper bassinet a safe choice and how to find the best fit for your baby. Safe Sleep Guidelines for Newborns Keeping up with the latest safe sleep recommendations can be challenging, as guidelines evolve based on new research. However, trusted organisations like Red Nose Australia and the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) provide evidence-based advice to help reduce the risks of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, and sleep-related accidents.

2. Here’s what parents need to keep in mind when creating a safe sleep environment for their baby: ✔Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a firm, flat mattress—this is the safest position to reduce SIDS risk. ✔Keep the sleep space free from loose bedding, pillows, and plush toys, as these can increase the risk of suffocation. ✔Choose a bassinet that meets strict Australian safety standards to prevent hazards like entrapment or tipping. Especially in choosing co sleeper for twins. ✔Bed-sharing is not recommended, as it increases the risk of accidental suffocation. Instead, consider a co-sleeper bassinet that allows your baby to sleep safely within arm’s reach. What to Avoid When Choosing a Co-Sleeper Bassinet Not all co-sleeper bassinets meet Australian safety standards, so it’s crucial to know which features to steer clear of to keep your baby safe. Here’s what to avoid: ❌Inclined sleepers – These have been linked to multiple infant deaths due to suffocation risks. Your baby’s sleep surface should always be firm and completely flat. ❌Bumpers and extra padding – While they may seem cosy, they pose a suffocation and entrapment hazard. Stick to a firm mattress with a properly fitted sheet.

3. ❌Drop-side bassinets – Banned in many countries, these pose a serious risk of falls and entrapment. A fixed, sturdy design is the safest choice. ❌Second-hand bassinets without safety certification – Older models may not meet current Australian safety standards. If opting for a pre-owned bassinet, ensure it has no recalls, is structurally sound, and comes with its original firm mattress. 10 Essential Safety Features Every Parent Should Look for in a Co-Sleeper Bassinet As a paediatric professional, I often remind parents that choosing the right co-sleeper bassinet is about more than just convenience—it’s about safety first. With so many options on the market, it’s important to know which features truly make a difference in reducing sleep-related risks. Here’s a quick info on what is a co sleeper for baby and what to prioritise in looking for a co-sleeper bassinet: 1. Breathable Mesh Sides for Better Airflow Good ventilation helps prevent overheating and lowers the risk of suffocation. Mesh sides also allow you to easily check on your baby without getting out of bed. 2. Firm, Well-Fitted Mattress A bassinet mattress should be firm and flat, with no gaps around the edges. Soft or ill-fitting mattresses increase the risk of suffocation and entrapment.

4. 3. Stable, Tip-Resistant Frame A sturdy base is essential. Bassinets with wide, tip-resistant legs remain steady, even as your baby starts moving more in their sleep. 4. Secure Bedside Attachment for Co-Sleepers If you’re choosing a bedside co-sleeper, ensure it attaches firmly to your bed with secure straps or locking mechanisms. This prevents gaps where your baby could get trapped. 5. Adjustable Height for Easy Access Multiple height settings allow you to align the bassinet with your mattress, making night feeds easier while keeping your baby in a safe, separate space. 6. Certified to Meet Australian Safety Standards Buy the best co sleeper bassinet in Australia that comply with ACCC (Australian Competition & Consumer Commission) safety regulations. Some may also have JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) or CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) certifications. 7. No Loose Bedding or Extra Padding Soft items like bumpers, pillows, or thick blankets increase the risk of suffocation. A fitted sheet specifically designed for the bassinet mattress is the safest choice.

5. 8. Locking Mechanisms for Stability If the bassinet has wheels, ensure they have a reliable locking system to prevent it from rolling unexpectedly. 9. Easy-to-Clean, Hypoallergenic Materials Babies can be messy. A removable, washable liner and mattress cover make cleaning easier, while hypoallergenic fabrics help protect sensitive skin. 10. Clear Weight and Age Limits Most bassinets support babies up to 9 kg (20 lbs) or around four to six months old. As soon as your baby starts rolling or sitting up, transitioning to a cot is essential for safety. Expert-Recommended Co-Sleeper Bassinets for Australian Parents At the One Fine Baby, one of the best baby expos in Australia, I had the opportunity to explore some of the best co-sleeper bassinets currently available. After assessing safety, durability, and ease of use, here are my top picks for Australian parents:

6. 1. iL Tutto CoZee Breeze Plus Co-Sleeping Bassinet (Scandi Walnut and Ecru) A stylish yet highly practical option, this bassinet features breathable mesh panels for airflow, a sturdy frame, and adjustable height settings to align with your bed for easy access. 2. iL Tutto CoZee Breeze Lite Co-Sleeping Bassinet (Whitewash Ash and Mushroom) Designed for parents on the go, this lightweight, travel-friendly model offers the same secure, breathable design as the Breeze Plus but in a more compact, easily transportable form. It can also be used as a co sleeper crib for 1 year olds. 3. Mamas & Papas Lua Bedside Crib With a modern, sleek design, the Lua bedside crib features adjustable mattress height and ventilated sides, ensuring your baby sleeps comfortably and securely. 4. Edwards & Co Baby SnüzPod4 A top-rated choice among Australian parents, this bassinet includes an anti-reflux incline, superior ventilation, and an easy-to-clean design, making it both functional and convenient. Each of these bassinets meets strict safety standards and aligns with the essential safety checklist outlined earlier. Whether you’re looking for portability, durability, or premium features, these expert-approved options offer a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby. Keeping Your Baby’s Sleep Safe As a mum and someone passionate about infant sleep, I know just how overwhelming it can be to find the right co-sleeper bassinet. Safety is always the top priority, but with so many options out there, it’s not always easy to tell which ones truly meet the highest standards. When I attended the One Fine Baby Expo in Sydney, I finally had the chance to see bassinets up close—checking how sturdy they were, feeling the firmness of their mattresses, and looking at the safety features firsthand. It really reinforced how important it is to choose a well-designed, safety-certified bassinet that follows safe sleep guidelines. If you're feeling stuck on which co-sleeper bassinet is best for your baby, I can’t recommend enough how valuable it is to see products in person, ask all the questions, and get advice from experts. Baby expos are a great way to do this, but if you don’t have access to one, make sure to do your research and always prioritise safety over aesthetics or extra bells and whistles.

7. This guide will walk you through the key things to look for, but every baby is different. Chatting with your paediatrician or an infant sleep consultant can help you create a sleep setup that works best for your little one. By following these tips and choosing a high-quality, safety-approved bassinet, you can rest easier knowing your baby is sleeping safely right next to you. FAQs Is a co-sleeper bassinet safer than bed-sharing? Absolutely. A co-sleeper bassinet gives your baby a separate, secure sleep space right next to your bed. Bed-sharing, on the other hand, increases the risk of suffocation and SIDS, which is why experts recommend using a bassinet instead. When should my baby stop using a co-sleeper bassinet? Most bassinets are safe up to 9 kg (20 lbs) or around 4-6 months old. Once your baby starts rolling, pushing up, or sitting, it’s time to transition them to a crib for safety. Can I use a second-hand bassinet? Only if it meets current safety standards, hasn’t been recalled, and still has its original firm mattress. Older models might not meet updated regulations, so always check for compliance before using one. Are co-sleeper bassinets good for C-section recovery? Yes! Many co-sleeper bassinets are designed for easy access, so you don’t have to get out of bed to reach your baby—something that’s a lifesaver during post-C-section recovery.

8. Can I safely use a co-sleeper bassinet if I have a soft mattress? No. A soft adult mattress can create dangerous gaps between your bed and the bassinet, increasing the risk of entrapment. Always ensure the bassinet securely attaches to a firm, flat mattress with no gaps. How do I know when to transition my baby out of a co-sleeper bassinet? If your baby starts rolling, pushing up on their hands, or reaching the weight limit (usually 9 kg/20 lbs), it’s time to move them to a crib. Most babies outgrow their bassinet around 4-6 months. Can I incline the bassinet to help with reflux? Most paediatricians and sleep experts recommend a completely flat sleep surface. If your baby has reflux, chat with your paediatrician before using an inclined bassinet, as improper positioning can increase the risk of airway obstruction. Are rocking bassinets safe for overnight sleep? Not all rocking bassinets are designed for safe overnight sleep. If yours has a rocking feature, make sure it has a lockable mechanism so your baby sleeps on a stable, motionless surface. Babies should never sleep in a freely moving bassinet. Do I need a special mattress or sheets for my co-sleeper bassinet? Yes. Always use the firm mattress that comes with the bassinet and fitted sheets designed specifically for that model. Aftermarket mattresses or loose-fitting sheets can create suffocation and entrapment risks.