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Buying Guide > What You Should Know > Cradles & Rockers
Consider these helpful tips when selecting a bassinet, cradle or rocker for your baby.
Because many parents want to keep baby in their bedroom in the early months, both bassinets and cradles are ideal before moving
the baby to the nursery into a full size crib. But before you put your little one down, you'll probably head to your rocker.
Many parents admit that the best part of the day is rocking their little one to sleep - so don't forget the rocker. The only one
who will enjoy it more than you is the baby!
If you are using an heirloom or hand me down cradle or bassinet, check it carefully for peeling paint, secure hardware and any
sharp or pointed areas that can harm your baby.
When choosing a cradle or bassinet, make sure the space between the slats or spindles is no more than 2 3/8" wide,
which is too narrow for your baby's body to slip through.
Never use a pillow as a mattress for a bassinet or a cradle. Pillows are too soft and can smother a baby.
As soon as your baby begins to roll over and become more active, move him or her into a standard-sized crib.
Bassinets and cradles are not designed to handle the weight and activity of an older baby.
Though many cradles are charming and many have been passed down from generation to generation, some babies don't
like the side to side action of a cradle. If you find your baby fussing more by being rocked in a cradle than in a rocking
chair, discontinue using it.
Rocking chairs have undergone some remarkable improvements in recent years. Rocker/recliners offer a wide seating
area, have generous padding and are very comfortable. Growing in popularity are the glider-rockers which come with foot stools
that mimic the same action. These rockers are wonderful for nursing mothers, and are so comfortable they will stay in the
family for years.
For more information on nursery equipment, contact the Consumer Products Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772.
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