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Lifestyle Q & A Forum

Is there a specific reason why parents often use a bassinet initially?

by
Nancy Phillips LeRoy
Interior Designer Allied Member of ASID Special Spaces, Ltd.



junethirty
Question:
My husband and I are preparing for our new baby and gathering new furniture and supplies. We plan to have the baby sleep in our bedroom for a while after the birth, since I will be breast feeding. My question is, is there a specific reason why parents often use a bassinet initially? Do infants require the close quarters of a bassinet versus a crib? Or do most parents merely use the bassinet for ease, since it's easier to get the baby in and out of during the night?
Answer:

The use of a bassinet is a personal choice. Maybe there is a bassinet or cradle that has been used in the family for generations of babies. The tradition and symbolism of the continuation of the family may alone be enough for its use. Or, maybe you fall in love with the look of a particular bassinet and it generates warm feelings for you. What comes to mind for me is a picture of something fit for a prince or princess - and every new baby is a prince or princess. Or maybe you feel the coziness of the bassinet would create more of a warm, safe feeling for your tiny baby.

Standard sized cribs seem huge when a infant is placed in them and a bassinet or cradle are sized for the newborn. Or maybe in those first few weeks you want the baby sleeping right next to your bed for your peace of mind and ease of care.

Obviously, the bassinet or cradle has a relatively short period of use which may render the purchase of a new one outside the reality of the budget.

Which ever way you decide to go, is your decision based on your personal preferences and needs. Whatever you decide, make those first few weeks as easy and stress free for yourself as possible and good luck in creating your SPECIAL SPACE.