Mini Crib vs Bassinet [Pros & Cons & Differences]

Crib products

Wondering which one to pick between a mini crib vs bassinet? Babies spend a lot of time sleeping during the first few years of their lives. You want to make sure your little one’s sleep environment is comfortable and safe. Pick the Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib. It promises to deliver all that and more.

Living in a small apartment usually means you don’t have the luxury of space. Well, this is the case for me, so I know its challenges. Buying compact and portable furniture is the only practical solution. That means when looking for your baby’s bed, your focus must be on space-saving pieces like a mini crib or bassinet. But which one is better? Let’s discuss!

Which One is Best: Mini Crib vs Bassinet

Before we become parents, we tend to generalize baby items. For me baby cribs were all the same, so were mattresses and diapers. It’s only after I became a parent I realized there were slight variations between similar baby products. For example, you have the option to pick between a full sized crib and a mini crib or a regular mattress and a mini mattress. And now that you want a small baby’s bed, you have to choose between a mini crib or bassinet! While both products serve the same purpose, they’re slightly different as I’ll explain shortly.

If you’re a first time parent, looking for a compact bed for your little one, I’m here to help you differentiate between the two products, help you decide which one is better for you and outline the advantages and disadvantages of each product. I’ll also tell you what to consider when making your purchase so you get value for your money.

Do I Need a Mini Crib or a Bassinet?

Let me start off by helping you decide which bed will work for your lifestyle, needs and living space. To figure out if you should rather opt for a mini crib or bassinet, ask yourself the following questions.

Are You Suffering from Baby Blues?

Being a first time mom or dad can be overwhelming. It’s not uncommon to be extremely anxious regarding your baby’s general well being and safety. It doesn’t help that newborns don’t sleep through the night.

If you feel you want your baby close to you where you can monitor her, the flexibility of a bassinet allows you to place it next to your bed. You can easily keep your child within arm’s reach without even moving the bassinet. Given the slightly larger size and design of mini cribs, it’s difficult to keep a mini crib right next to your bed.

How Much Space Do You Have in Your Room?

Yes a mini crib and bassinet are nowhere near as large as a full-sized crib. But If you’re working with extra limited space, and prefer a space saver, consider a bassinet because it’s much smaller than a mini crib and perfect for room-sharing.

How Long Do You Want to Use the Product For?

Bassinets are ideally suited for newborns. Most are designed to use till your little one is between four and six months. Any older and your baby won’t fit comfortably. This means you’ll have to make another purchase in a few months.

Mini cribs on the other hand can be used for longer. Depending on the brand you buy, you can even use it all the way to toddlerhood or till your child is ready for the “big bed”. In this regard, mini cribs are a long-term investment compared to bassinets.

How Much Are You Willing to Spend?

New babies require a lot of items to keep them comfortable and happy. It makes sense if you want to purchase affordable items for your little one.

If price is an issue, rather opt for bassinets. They tend to be much cheaper than mini cribs giving you a chance to save up for a larger crib later. This is ideal for parents who want to put off purchasing a crib until their little one is older.

Will You Be Traveling a Lot With Your Baby?

If you’re going to be traveling a lot with your little one, a bassinet is the better buy because of its portability. Alternatively, you can pick a foldable mini crib that’s easy to fold, assemble and take apart.

What’s the Difference?

We’ve established mini cribs and bassinets serve the same purpose. So where do they differ? The difference between the two products is best explained by highlighting the following features:

  • Size: As previously mentioned, bassinets are much smaller in size than mini cribs.
  • Sides: Bassinets usually have lower sides while mini cribs have taller sides much like their full-sized counterparts..
  • Shape: mini cribs are usually rectangular in shape while bassinets are typically round.
  • Cover: Most bassinets come with a hood or cover that can be pulled over while your baby is sleeping. mini cribs don’t come with a cover.

Pros and Cons of the Mini Crib

Pros

  • Despite the tall sides, mini cribs feature slats that allow for adequate air-flow to keep babies cool and comfortable.
  • Generally feature a sturdier construction and are built to last.
  • You don’t have to replace it after a few months unless of course you purchase a flimsy crib.

Cons

  • Not as portable as bassinets so traveling with a mini crib is often a hassle.
  • Mommies still recovering from C-section will find placing their little ones inside the crib and getting them out taxing.
  • Some models might be difficult to assemble.
  • Costly when compared to bassinets.

Pros and Cons of the Bassinet

Pros

  • Reduce risk of SIDS since you can monitor your baby closely.
  • Travel-friendly thanks to their portability and light weight.
  • Allow you to keep your baby close to you no matter which room of the house you’re in.
  • Easy to lay your baby down or get them out of the bassinet. If your partner delivered via C-section, she’ll definitely appreciate this.
  • No complex assembling required. Some even come pre-assembled.
  • Excellent space saver.

Cons

  • Not for long term use since they need to be replaced quickly when your baby outgrows it.
  • Costly in the long run since you’ll have to spend more money to buy another bed for your child later.
  • Not as sturdy when compared to mini cribs.

What to Look For When Choosing Between the Mini Crib and Bassinet

You now know the differences, the pros and cons between the two products and how each fares against the other. Now you have to choose the right product for your needs, lifestyle and of course the actual owner who happens to be your little munchkin!

Aside from factors like color and style which are important when decorating your baby’s nursery, also look out for the following:

My Top Picks

Best Overall – Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib

I’ll start with my best overall pick. This unit can easily fit in the tightest of spaces. Made of sturdy wood, this mini crib is designed to last. And it’s made using non-toxic materials. The crib features wheels for easy mobility. If you want to travel with your baby’s bed, this crib can be folded flat into a portable unit.

Who it’s For

Perfect for parents looking for a crib that can fit in small spaces.

Why You Should Consider It

Firstly, this is an excellent investment. You’ll be using it until your child is ready for his ”big bed”. As soon as he’s old enough to stand, you can lower the mattress thanks to the height adjustment function.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 39 x 25 x 37.25”
  • Weight: 34.2lb
  • Color: White

Pros

  • Sturdy construction
  • Excellent space saver
  • Simple mattress adjustment

Cons

  • Assembly process not straightforward
  • Base off-gases initially

Best Value – DaVinci Dylan Folding Portable Mini Crib

Next, I have this classic white crib designed to grow with your baby. It has four height adjustment positions to accommodate each stage of your baby’s development. When your daughter has finally mastered how to stand, you can lower the mattress accordingly for her safety.

It’s made using environmentally-friendly products and has a Greenguard Gold certificate to prove it.

Who it’s For

Ideal for parents who are big on eco-conscious products.

Why You Should Consider It

It’s an excellent space saver thanks to the compact design. And it has wheels in case you want to move your baby around. It’s foldable allowing you to pack it for those family vacations. Although you’ll need a special kind of tool to do so. You’ll like that it’s compatible with any standard size mini crib mattress.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 40.35 x 25.08 x 40.09”
  • Weight: 25.1lb
  • Color: White

Pros

  • Sturdy construction
  • Easy to assemble
  • Compact

Cons

  • Produces strong chemical smell initially
  • Warning stickers insider the crib are a choking hazard for inquisitive babies

Budget Pick – Delta Children Deluxe Sweet Beginnings Bedside Bassinet

In need of an affordable bassinet for the first few months of your baby’s life? Pick this super affordable unit perfect for both naps and bedtime. It comes with an adjustable cover you can pull over when your little one is napping.

Who it’s For

For parents looking for a functional but budget friendly bassinet.

Why You Should Consider It

You’ll like that this product not only features wheels, but they’re lockable for your baby’s safety. And it comes with a large storage basket where you can pack your child’s diapers and other essentials neatly. The icing on the cake has to be the soothing music and nightlight to keep your baby calm and serene.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 45 x 17 x 33”
  • Weight: 10.6lb
  • Color: White and brown

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to assemble
  • Storage space underneath

Cons

  • Slightly wobbly
  • Base produces strong chemical smell
  • Cover overly tight

Best for Travel – MiClassic Stationary & Rock Bassinet

Lastly, I have this chic bassinet that ticks all the boxes with regards to aesthetics, durability and function. The neutral color makes your baby’s nursery look modern and up to date which won me over. Function-wise it doubles as a rocking bed to soothe your crying baby.

Who it’s For

For parents who like traveling with their little one.

Why You Should Consider It

You’ll find it extremely easy to move around with this unit. Folding it up is easy. Setting it up is even simpler. This is thanks to the one hand open and fold system. And it even comes with a carrying bag for your convenience.

For your baby’s comfort concerns, the sides are surrounded by breathable mesh for adequate airflow.

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 37.4 x 23.8 x 11.02”
  • Weight: 18.16lb
  • Color: Gray

Pros

  • Portable
  • Sturdy
  • Easy to assemble and take apart

Cons

  • Mattress a little stiff
  • You can’t remove the mattress completely
  • No wheels

FAQ

What are the mini crib measurements when compared to regular cribs?

Basic guidelines suggest that a mini crib mattress is usually 24-inches wide and 38-inches long while a full sized crib is 27 ¼ inches wide and 51 1/4 inches long.

How long can you use a mini crib for?

Based on the product you pick you can use a mini crib till your child is two years or older depending on the weight capacity recommendations. Make sure you stick to the regulations for safety reasons.

Are bassinets safe?

Yes ,but make sure you pick a stable unit made of sturdy materials and follow the guidelines mentioned in this video to prevent risk of SIDS.

Final Thoughts

Whether you pick a mini crib or bassinet will depend on your lifestyle and needs. But if you want a product that can be used for longer, is sturdier and more durable rather invest in a mini crib. And based on my research the product that excels in the mentioned categories is the Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Crib.

You have all the facts and my recommendation, now it’s time to make YOUR decision between the mini crib vs bassinet. Which one are you going with?

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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