How to Move a Baby From a Bassinet to a Crib

Creating a safe sleep spot for your baby is one of your most important tasks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you place your baby in a bassinet or crib in your bedroom near your bed. Eventually, however, your little one will outgrow his bassinet and he will need a larger sleeping area. When this occurs, it̵7;s time to transition him from his bassinet into a full-size crib.

Things You'll Need

  • Crib sheet

Instructions

    • 1

      Use the crib sheet as a light receiving blanket for your baby for several days before you plan to make the move. This will transfer some of your baby̵7;s natural scent onto the crib sheet. With this crib sheet on your baby̵7;s crib mattress, she may feel more comfortable and secure because she smells her scent, advises professional sleep consultant Nicole Johnson, with the Baby Sleep Site.

    • 2

      Place the prepared crib sheet onto the crib mattress. Remove all toys, blankets, pillows and crib bumpers from the crib to prevent accidental suffocation, warns the AAP.

    • 3

      Place your baby in her crib crossways instead of the long way, with her body against one short side of the crib initially, to help make the larger sleep space feel smaller. Always lay your baby down on her back when placing her in bed for sleep.

    • 4

      Expect some sleep disturbances while your little one acclimates to the new sleeping area and respond patiently and lovingly. He may wake more frequently, sleep fitfully and have a harder time falling asleep due to the change. Respond to his cries readily to help him through the transition to calm him and help him realize that this new sleeping space is okay. The transition time until your little one sleeps comfortably in his crib should take up to two weeks, with the first nights being the hardest.

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