9 Best Bassinet Options for Newborns (Including the SNOO): A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right bassinet for your newborn is one of the most important decisions new parents make. A good bassinet provides a safe, cozy sleep space for your baby’s first months — before transitioning to a crib. With so many styles, features, and price points, it can be overwhelming to know which one is worth your money.

In this guide, we’ve reviewed top bassinet options for newborns, including traditional, portable, and high-tech choices like the SNOO Smart Sleeper Bassinet. We’ll also cover safety tips, what features to look for, and how to decide based on your lifestyle.

Why a Bassinet Is Worth It for Newborns

A bassinet is smaller and more snug than a crib — perfect for the first 3–6 months when babies sleep frequently and need constant monitoring. Here’s why they’re so popular:

Keeps baby close to parents’ bed
Smaller space feels more secure for newborns
Most are lightweight and portable
Some models include soothing motion or music
Easy to move from room to room

Bassinets are especially helpful for:

  • Breastfeeding parents

  • Families with small bedrooms

  • Babies who like close contact

  • First-time parents who want extra reassurance

What to Look for in a Newborn Bassinet

Before we dive into our recommended options, here are key features to consider:

1. Safety First

  • Mesh sides for breathability

  • Firm, flat sleeping surface

  • Meets ASTM and CPSC safety standards

  • No loose bedding or soft toys

2. Portability

Some bassinets fold or have wheels for easy room-to-room movement.

3. Adjustability

Height-adjustable models help align with your bed.

4. Soothing Features

  • Vibration

  • Motion

  • White noise

  • Music

5. Ease of Cleaning

Removable, machine-washable fabrics are a huge plus.

Best Bassinet Options for Newborns

Below are our top picks for 2026 — ranging from budget-friendly to luxury smart sleepers.

1. **SNOO Smart Sleeper Bassinet – Best High-Tech Bassinet

The SNOO is arguably the most talked-about bassinet among new parents — and for good reason.

Why parents love it:

  • Automated gentle rocking responds to crying

  • Built-in white noise and motion

  • Secure swaddle system to keep baby safely on their back

  • Designed in collaboration with pediatric sleep experts

The SNOO Smart Sleeper promotes better sleep for both baby and parents by soothing fussiness automatically. While it’s a premium option, many families find the improved sleep quality worth the investment.

Ideal for: parents who want a hands-free sleep solution and are willing to invest in premium features.

2. **Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper – Best for Bedside Access

The Halo Bassinest is a classic favorite thanks to its 360° swivel design, which lets you easily bring your baby close for feeding and comforting.

Top features:

  • 360° swivel to parent’s bed

  • Adjustable height settings

  • Mesh walls for airflow

  • Some models include soothing vibration

This bassinet is a great blend of convenience and safety, especially for breastfeeding parents.

Ideal for: Parents who want the baby close all night without climbing in and out of bed.

3. **Graco Dream Suite Bassinet – Best Value with Storage

If you’re budget-conscious but still want practicality, the Graco Dream Suite checks a LOT of boxes.

Why it’s a favorite:

  • Bassinet + changing station combo

  • Extra storage shelf for diapers and wipes

  • Gentle vibrations to soothe baby

  • Compact design

This is one of the most functional bassinets for the price.

Ideal for: Small spaces and parents who like organization.

4. **Fisher‑Price Soothing Motions Bassinet – Best Everyday Option

Fisher-Price is known for baby gear that’s reliable and affordable — and their Soothing Motions Bassinet doesn’t disappoint.

Features include:

  • Gentle side-to-side motion

  • Soothing sounds and vibrations

  • Mesh walls for airflow

  • Machine-washable fabrics

It doesn’t have the smart tech of the SNOO, but it’s comfortable, safe, and easy to use.

Ideal for: Parents who want comfort without extra bells and whistles.

5. **Chicco LullaGo Bassinet – Best for Portability

For families on the go, the Chicco LullaGo is lightweight, foldable, and travel-friendly — making it great for grandparents’ houses or vacation.

What we love:

  • Folds compactly

  • Carrying handle included

  • Stable and sturdy design

  • Removable mattress pad

Perfect if you plan to move the bassinet between rooms or locations.

Ideal for: Travel and multi-room use.

6. **BabyBjörn Cradle – Best Minimalist Design

For parents who prefer simplicity and Scandinavian design, the BabyBjörn Cradle is sleek, modern, and practical.

Features:

  • Gentle rocking motion

  • Breathable fabric

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Minimal assembly

It’s not as feature-rich as some larger models, but its simplicity appeals to many.

Ideal for: Parents who like minimalist style and gentle motion.

7. **Delta Children Deluxe Bedside Bassinet – Best Affordable Bedside Bassinet

This Delta Children option is perfect if you want a simple bedside bassinet that gets the job done without premium pricing.

Key features:

  • Safe, breathable mesh walls

  • Adjustable height

  • Can convert to a standalone bassinet

  • Easy assembly

A good budget choice that still keeps your baby close and safe.

Ideal for: Parents who want a basic bedside solution.

8. **Babysweet Portable Bassinet – Best Budget Portable Bassinet

This lightweight model is entry-level, easy to set up, and great for short naps or travel.

Why it’s good:

  • Lightweight and portable

  • Simple folding frame

  • Affordable price

Not as plush or feature-packed as higher-end models, but great for short-term use.

Ideal for: Naps, travel, and secondary sleep space.

9. **4moms mamaRoo Sleep Bassinet – Best Bassinet with Multiple Motion Options

This bassinet lets you choose from several soothing motions and built-in white noise options — giving you more control over what works for your baby.

What sets it apart:

  • Multiple motion patterns

  • Adjustable sound + motion levels

  • Mesh sides for breathability

  • Modern design

Great for parents who want customizable soothing without premium pricing like the SNOO.

Ideal for: Parents who want high quality with tech-driven features.

How to Choose the Right Bassinet for Your Family

Here are a few questions to ask yourself before deciding:

1. Do you breastfeed at night?

If yes, a bassinet that swivels or stays close to your bed (like Halo or SNOO) improves convenience.

2. Do you want smart features?

The SNOO and 4moms options offer automated motion and sound that can help settle baby faster.

3. Is portability important?

Lightweight and foldable models (like Chicco LullaGo) are easier to move and travel with.

4. What’s your budget?

Prices range from affordable (budget portable bassinets) to premium smart options like the SNOO.

5. Space considerations?

If space is tight, look for compact or convertible models with storage.

Bassinet Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know

Ensuring your newborn sleeps safely is critical. Follow these guidelines:

Place baby on their back to sleep every time

This reduces the risk of SIDS.

Use a firm, flat sleep surface

No pillows, blankets, bumpers, or toys.

Ensure proper airflow

Mesh walls help with ventilation.

Keep cords and fabrics away

Avoid long blankets, swaddle blankets need to be secure.

Stop using the bassinet when baby can roll or push up

Usually around 4–6 months.

Bassinet vs. Crib: When to Transition

Most babies use a bassinet until they start:

  • Rolling over

  • Pushing up on hands and knees

  • Exceeding the bassinet’s weight limit

After this point, it’s time for a crib. Expect many families to transition around 4–6 months, but every baby develops differently.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a bassinet is about balancing safety, comfort, and convenience. Whether you want the smart technology of the SNOO for automatic soothing, a compact travel-ready option, or a simple and affordable bedside model, the right bassinet can improve sleep for both your baby and your whole family.

Top picks recap:

  • Best high-tech: SNOO Smart Sleeper

  • Best bedside swivel: Halo Bassinest

  • Best value with storage: Graco Dream Suite

  • Best portable: Chicco LullaGo

  • Best minimalist design: BabyBjörn Cradle

With this guide, you now have the info you need to make a confident purchase. Sweet dreams ahead!

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