Committing to breastfeeding means you’ll be getting up a few time at night to nurse. Especially in the first few months your baby may wake up quite frequently. To make nursing during nights easier, you need the best bassinet for breastfeeding moms which allows you to keep your little one close to you and reach them without getting out of bed!
Breastfeeding is a beautiful thing, but many breastfeeding moms feel downright exhausted because of how often their babies need to nurse, especially as newborns.
Pair that with adjusting to baby’s sleep schedule and getting the hang of nursing: a new mom can easily feel overwhelmed (and constantly tired).
This article will help you find the best bassinet for your breastfeeding journey.
Middle of the night feedings are hard, but there are a few things you can do to make breastfeeding a bit easier. One of them is to get a great baby bassinet or side sleeper bassinet for your bed.
Nursing your baby at night without getting out of bed? Yes please!
This article is not a substitute for medical advice. It may contain affiliate links.
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The Best Bassinet for Breastfeeding Moms
If you’re a nursing mama, self-standing bassinet is not the best option for you. You should rather go for a bedside co-sleeping bassinet – which you can set right next to your bed (or even partially on top of your mattress).
This will allow you to keep your baby as close as possible – so you could easily and quickly respond to their needs and reach them when it’s time for nursing.
Co-Sleeper Bassinet – Is It Safe?
A co-sleeper for baby is not the same as sleeping with baby in your bed!
Co-sleepers are a sleep system, specifically designed to connect to the parents bed for the baby to sleep beside the parents, but not actually in bed with them.
This is important, because the American Academy Of Pediatrics advises against sleeping with your baby1.
Best Bassinets & Bedside Co-Sleepers For Breastfeeding – Ranking
I’ve been on the hunt for the best bassinet for breastfeeding moms, and here are the winners.
1. HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0
First up on the list for best bassinet for breastfeeding moms is the Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0. I love the design, the features and it’s even at an affordable price!
Mama, you’ve just given birth, you don’t want to be lifting or pushing anything. And, you’ll likely have your arms full, so a bassinet that swivels away from your bed is a dream!
It will be so easy to get the baby in and out of the bassinet when it’s time for nursing.
Plus, you’ll be able to get out of your bed without the need to scoot all the way down (a nightmare after delivery!).
The frame’s legs slide right under your bed to take up as little room as possible (great for small spaces).
This also means that you can bring baby close without getting out of bed. You do not need to attach this to your adult bed, because the bassinet sits over your mattress.
And with a wide range of height settings, you’ll be able to easily adjust this baby bassinet to your mattress height.
If your baby cries, just reach out, push down the side panel and bring them close.
Reasons To Love This Baby Bassinet
The Halo Bassinet has a special side panel, one that you don’t have to roll or fold down. The fully mesh walls offer proper ventilation all around and the side wall can be lowered simply by pressing down gently on it. This means no bending over or twisting!
The side automatically returns to the upright position, but it is also lockable, so you can keep it permanently in the upright position, if that’s more comfortable for you.
What distinguishes this baby bassinet from other co-sleeper is that the bedside wall is made from mesh, not a fabric, so you can keep and eye on your baby while still laying in the bed.
You won’t even have to lift yourself which is super convenient especially when you’re recovering from C-section.
Halo 3.0 sits on a sturdy metal frame, but doesn’t take up much room if you have a small space. It also has convenient side storage pockets to keep a few baby items, like wipes, handy.
| PRO TIP: If you’re looking for something more advanced check out this Halo Bassinet Swivel Sleeper Luxe. This ‘luxury’ bassinet features a built-in nightlight, soothing lullabies and white noise sounds to help keep baby entertained. |
Accessories
The bassinet comes with both a waterproof mattress and a machine washable sheet.
Some parents shared that it feels firm and thin but keep in mind it is designed this way to be safest and most supportive for infant’s back.
There are additional accessories sold separately, for example a newborn insert that makes baby feel extra cozy – just like in mom’s womb, to help them fall asleep on their own.
Keep In Mind
The weight limit on this bassinet is one of the lowest on the list, only 20 lbs.
2. Mika Micky Bassinet Bedside Sleeper
Mika Micky Bassinet is a good option for a co-sleeper for breastfeeding moms. I like that it is simple and practical and can hold babies up to 33 lbs – this is the highest weight limit of all the best bassinets for nursing moms.
While they are not a lot of frills, like storage or advanced functionality (the bassinet doesn’t rock and does not have a nightlight), it is still a more affordable price than the similar Baby Delight Bedside Sleeper.
Reasons To Love This Baby Bassinet
This bassinet easily becomes a bedside bassinet for breastfeeding. The included fastening straps secure the bassinet next to your bed. The Mika Micky Bassinet offers seven adjustable height options so you shouldn’t have any problems to set it right right to your bed.
Remove straps, zip up mesh wall and it becomes a stand alone bassinet.
It’s easy to set up and safe for your infant for nighttime sleep or naps. Moreover, it can hold heavier babies so you’ll get more use out of it.
There are two mesh side panels (the long sides) on this bassinet. The panels at the two shorter ends of the bassinet are not mesh, but it does not really reduce how breathable the bassinet is.
Keep In Mind
The wheels do not roll smoothly on carper, but that’s not a deal breaker.
3. Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper Bedside Bassinet
The Arm’s Reach Co-sleeper Bassinet looks different than most bassinets on this list, but check it out, it might just be the right bassinet for you! It’s a good bassinet for breastfeeding moms who want something with plenty of storage.
Safe Co-Sleeping
This company invented the term “co-sleeping” and created the first bedside sleeper that allowed a safe option for babies to sleep beside their parents, without actually sharing the same sleeping surface.
This bassinet was designed by ob/gyns and leading childcare experts, so C-section mamas can rest assured, this bassinet is great to use after caesarean delivery and it is breastfeeding-friendly too.
It’s also the best co-sleeper for breastfeeding moms who are hesitant about using a bassinet that attaches to the bed, because it feels more like a mix between a crib and a bassinet.
Instead of being an oval shape on a stand, like most bassinets on this list, the Arm’s Reach Bassinet sort of looks like a wheeled cart.
Later on, when your baby outgrows it you can easily use it for a baby changing station in your nursery.
Reasons To Love This Baby Bassinet
This bedside bassinet offers the most storage space. There are not only convenient side storage pockets, but also additional storage space underneath the bassinet, too.
This is awesome for C-section moms, and really, all breastfeeding moms, because you can keep extra diapers, a sound machine for soothing music, and your own nursing supplies right at your bedside.
It can be used as a stand alone bassinet or a side sleeper.
To make this a bedside sleeper, one side panel rolls down, allowing you easy access to your baby for middle of the night feeds.
The bassinet has rolling castor wheels, so you can move it around your house and keep your baby in the same room as you.
Accessories
The Arm’s Reach Co-sleeper comes with the nylon straps and plate to safely set it up as a side sleeper. It also includes a firm mattress and a matching fitted sheet, so you can start using it right away.
Keep In Mind
This is the bulkiest bassinet on the list, it’s not the best bedside bassinet for moms with less space.
Also, it does have to be assembled with tools. You’ll likely need 30 minutes, and your own basic tools to set it up.
4. Dream On Me Seashell Bassinet & Bedside Sleeper
If you’re on the hunt for a simple, portable option that can also be a bedside bassinet, consider the Dream On Me Bassinet & Bedside Sleeper.
Reasons To Love This Baby Bassinet
It is one of the most portable options because it has wheels, but it also acts as a standalone bassinet for babies up to 25 lbs in weight.
Secure the bassinet close to your bed with the included sturdy straps. With seven different adjustable heights, you’re sure to get the proper bed height. Simply fold down the side wall and convert the bassinet into a side sleeper for quick nursing access.
When your baby wakes up for the feeding, you’ll be able to take them out of the sleeper easily, without getting out of bed. It’s such a game-changer!
It’s convenient for breastfeeding moms to use when on vacation because it is a lightweight bassinet (only 14 lbs) and assembly is a breeze (no tools required).
| PRO TIP: While the Dream On Me Bassinet could work as a travel crib, if you’re specifically looking for something to take on-the-go, this Dream On Me Traveler Bassinet is a more affordable option and it’s specifically designed to be portable. It even folds down so it fits in majority of car trunks. |
Keep In Mind
This would be a better breastfeeding bassinet if it had storage pockets.
5. RONBEI Bedside Sleeper
The RONBEI Bedside Sleeper easily adjusts between a standalone bassinet and a bedside sleeper with a simple fold down side panel.
it is similar to both the Mika Micky Bassinet and the Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer Bassinet, but the RONBEI is more budget-friendly and is ideal for babies who suffer from acid reflux.
Reasons To Love This Baby Bassinet
This is one of the only bassinets that offers micro-incline.
It’s not advised for your baby to sleep at an angle, but if your child suffers from acid reflux, you may need to have them lay down at a slight angle after feeding (before sleeping) to reduce the symptoms.
With nine adjustable height positions, it’s the best bassinet for breastfeeding moms with taller beds. You can be sure you’ll find settings that suits your bed’s height.
The breathable mesh sides make it easy to check on baby’s movements throughout the night.
The side fabric and sheet (included) are both removable and machine washable to make cleaning easily.
There’s one more advantage: thanks to compact size, this bedside bassinet is great for small spaces.
Keep In Mind
It has a low weight limit (just under 20 lbs), so you won’t get as much use out of it as with some other bassinets.
It also doesn’t have storage pockets, which is a shame, because it would be so easy to include them on the sides and make this a more convenient co-sleeper bassinet.
6. Graco DreamMore Bedside Bassinet
I think the Graco DreamMore Bedside Bassinet is one of the best bassinets for newborns. It’s a different type of co-sleeper bassinet, though, as it does not attach to the bed directly.
It’s not one of those bedside bassinets that attaches to your the adult bed frame. It is an infant bassinet that sits over your mattress. This is the best bassinet for breastfeeding Mamas with a soothing motion. And the fact that you can bring it close to your bed makes it a huge difference for nursing sessions at night.
Reasons To Love This Baby Bassinet
This is ranks as the best bassinet for breastfeeding moms because it is so portable! The bassinet bed portion is removable, making it easy to keep baby close as you do laundry or cook dinner.
Another favorite features of this baby bassinet is that it sways. If baby wakes early, the manual gentle rocking motion can soothe your baby to sleep again.
It’s adjustable height has nine different positions and the all-around breathable mesh sides make for a well-ventilated baby bassinet
The mattress pad is machine washable which, believe me, every mama wants!
Keep In Mind
One complaint of this bassinet was that it can take a while to set up, so don’t plan to do it at the last minute.
Also, it does not have storage space pockets, so you have to find another solution for keeping baby’s essentials near your bedside.
How To Choose Best Breastfeeding Bassinet & Co-Sleeper
Here are the most important features that you should look out for when searching for the best bassinet for breastfeeding.
Easy Access
My favorite aspect of a newborn bassinet is the easy access to your baby from the comfort of your own bed.
All the bassinets on this list all have either a drop-down side or a roll down side to make it a little easier when baby wakes up at 2 or 3 am for a feeding.
Portability
You want a portable bassinet. This means it should have lockable wheels and a lightweight frame, or, even better – fully remove from the frame and act as an independent bed you can take to any room of your home, like the Graco DreamMore bassinet does.
Adjustable
Any bassinet or co-sleeper should adjust to different bed heights, usually with adjustable legs. A good stand alone bassinet should have adjustable height positions, too, to accommodate shorter moms.
Storage
My favorite bassinets have additional storage options to keep baby essentials close at hand.
Safety Features
Mesh side panels are a must for bassinets because they offer proper airflow and are completely breathable.
Also, in terms of visibility, you can easily watch your baby sleep (without even sitting up in bed) through the mesh walls. This is great for C-section mamas, especially, because sitting up can be difficult.
Best Bedside Bassinet For Breastfeeding – FAQ
To answer the most common questions about bassinets or co-sleepers and breastfeeding
Does Co-Sleeping Help Breastfeeding?
Yes, studies suggest when baby sleeps in an approved co-sleeper bassinet or a side sleeper beside their mother it helps with breastfeeding in the following ways:
- It’s great for skin-to-skin contact, which promotes bonding
- It can help Mama’s milk to come in for breastfeeding
- It allows Mama to rest more, because she does not have to get out of bed for breastfeeding
- It may reduce fussiness in babies and may help newborns fall asleep easier
- Baby sleeping better means Mama is likely getting more restful sleep, too! And you deserve it.
How Long Can You Use A Co-Sleeper For?
You can use a co-sleeper until your baby begins rolling over. Once your baby can roll over, you should stop using the co-sleeper due to safety risks.
That’s why convertible bassinet options are great, because you can continue using the freestanding bassinet option (with the sides up) until your baby begins sitting up on their own (closer to 4-5 months).
Just check that your baby isn’t exceeding the bassinet’s advised weight range.
Is A Co-Sleeper Bigger Than A Bassinet?
It depends, some bassinets are smaller (and usually can be used for a shorter amount of time) whereas convertible options might be a little larger (and can hold bigger babies, too).
The best co-sleeper options are about the same size as a bassinet, and don’t take up much space because the legs tuck under the bed or attach to the bed frame.
Bed-Sharing: Can A Baby Suffocate In Parent’s Bed?
Yes. One of the concerns is of soft bedding (parent’s pillows and blankets), which poses a suffocation risk to infants. Newborns should sleep on a firm mattress on their own sleeping surface, without any blankets or pillows.
It is advised for infants to share one room with their parents for the first 6 months of life, which is why bassinets or bedside sleeper bassinets are the ideal solution for baby sleep.
A co-sleeper (or side sleeper) is a baby bassinet that attaches to the parents bed, usually with a side wall that folds down to keep baby close beside you in bed, but safe on their own sleeping surface.
Other bassinets, or standalone bassinets are stationed beside Mom’s bed or sit over the mattress.
Make sure to keep your baby safe and only use approved sleep methods, please do not co-sleep (share the same bed) with a newborn2.
But keep in mind that a safe co-sleeper for breastfeeding can make life a little easier for a nursing mama.
Cribs Vs. Bassinets – What The Difference?
I like bassinets for newborns because they are more convenient than a baby crib.
With a crib you are not next to your infant, whereas with a bassinet or co-sleeper, you can rest assured they are right beside you at any time of the night. If your newborn baby moves, you will know.
Using a co-sleeper or a bassinet makes those late night breastfeeding sessions a little easier because you do not have to get out of bed.
You can just reach over and pick up your baby and start feeding, while staying comfortable in bed.
If you’re still unsure which one to choose, read my comparison: bassinet vs. mini crib vs. standard crib – it should help you narrow down your choice.
Time Frame
A difference between cribs and bassinets is that bassinets are only for newborns. You won’t get as much long-term use at out of a bassinet as you will with a traditional crib.
If you want to stretch the use of your baby bassinet longer you might try using it as changing table or baby changing station when it is no longer safe to be used for baby’s sleep.
Better Sleep
Most babies sleep better when they are near their moms. And I sleep much better with my newborn baby beside me in a bassinet, too!
How Do I Choose A Co-Sleeper?
To choose the best co-sleeper, you need to start with measuring the size of your bed. It is essential that a side sleeper fits your bed securely.
Next, consider how much space you have in your bedroom – if you need retractable legs or something that slides under your bed frame.
Choose a co-sleeper that will suit your bed and your home.
How Do I Choose A Bassinet?
To get the best bassinet for breastfeeding, or just the best bassinet for your home, consider these questions:
- Do you want a stationary or portable bassinet?
- Do you want to be able to lift off the bassinet? or a wheeled bassinet to push around your home?
- Do you feel comfortable with a bedside sleeper with sides that zip down, or do you want something like the Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper, with its side that automatically returns up?
- Do you have stairs in your home? (then look for portable bassinets that remove from their base)
- What type of floors do you have in your bedroom? Gliders work better than wheels in carpeted rooms.
- Do you have a small bedroom?
- Do you want the bedside sleeper or a bassinet that sits over your own mattress?
Answering these questions will help you choose the best bassinet for you.
Sources of pictures:
Pictures of Mika Micky bassinet belong to Mika Micky Brand.
Pictures of Seashell bassinet belong to Dream On Me Brand.
Pictures of BassiNest 3.0 belong to Halo Brand.
Pictures of DreamMore belong to Graco Brand.
Pictures of Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper belong to Arm’s Reach Brand.
Pictures of Ronbei bedside bassinet belong to Ronbei Brand.
The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice or medical care. Remember: safety first! Consult your doctor/pediatrician in case of any doubts. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
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Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂