A bassinet or bassinette is a bed specifically for babies from birth to about four months, and small enough to provide a "cocoon" that small babies find comforting. In a hospital environment, a special form of sealed bassinet is used in a neonatal intensive care unit. Research has shown that the mattress influences SIDS outcomes; a firm mattress lowers SIDS risk.[1]
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Stationary or portable
Although there are many variations, they fall generally into two categories:
- light and portable types sometimes called "moses baskets"
- and sturdier but less portable cradles.
In both cases they are generally designed to allow the resting baby to be carried from place to place to be close to its mother. Within the home they are often raised on a stand or other surface to reduce back strain when bending over to tend the baby, and wheeled frames to convert a bassinet into a pram or baby carriage are common.
Infant bed
Once babies are able to roll over by themselves, at three or four months of age, it is no longer safe for the baby to be left in a bassinet as they could tip themselves out, so they must use an infant bed instead.
References
- ^ SIDS & Kids Statement on the use of second hand mattresses
