How to Get Baby to Sleep in a Bassinet
If your baby cries the moment you put them down in their bassinet, you’re not alone. For many parents, those first few weeks (or months!) feel like a never-ending cycle of holding, rocking, and praying that their baby will finally sleep somewhere other than their arms. It’s exhausting, right? You know the bassinet is the safest place for them to sleep, but convincing your little one of that can feel like an uphill battle.
I’ve been there myself. When my daughter was born, I naively thought she’d just know how to sleep in her bassinet. I mean, it’s soft, cozy, and perfectly safe—what’s not to love? But the moment I set her down, she’d squirm, startle, and let out a cry that made my heart sink. I spent countless nights wondering what I was doing wrong, only to realize it wasn’t about me at all. Babies aren’t born knowing how to sleep in a bassinet—it’s a learned skill.
Here’s the good news: with a little patience and the right strategies, you can help your baby adjust to the bassinet. It’s not always an overnight fix, but it’s entirely possible. In this article, we’ll explore why babies often resist the bassinet, how to set up the perfect sleep environment, and practical tips for easing the transition.
Before we dive in, let’s take a moment to recognize just how challenging this phase can be. You’re doing an amazing job, even on the nights when nothing seems to work. The fact that you’re here, looking for solutions, shows how much you care. And trust me, there’s a light at the end of the sleepless tunnel.
Ready to reclaim your arms (and maybe even some sleep)? Let’s get started.
1. Why Babies Resist the Bassinet
If your baby is fighting the bassinet like it’s their mortal enemy, don’t worry—this is completely normal. Babies are creatures of habit, and for the first few weeks of their lives, their favorite habit is being snuggled in your arms. To them, your arms are the ultimate safe space: warm, cozy, and full of comforting sounds like your heartbeat and breathing. Transitioning to a bassinet, no matter how thoughtfully designed, can feel like a big adjustment.
Let’s unpack the common reasons why babies resist sleeping in their bassinet and how these natural instincts come into play.
1. They’re Wired for Contact
Babies are born with a biological need to stay close to their caregivers. In the womb, they spent nine months being held 24/7 in a snug, warm, and constantly moving environment. It’s no wonder they’re reluctant to trade that for the still, quiet, and flat surface of a bassinet!
Personal Note: I vividly remember my daughter’s first few nights at home. Every time I put her in the bassinet, she’d startle awake and cry as if she were saying, “Nope, this isn’t what I signed up for!” It took me a while to realize that her resistance wasn’t a reflection of what I was doing wrong—it was her natural preference for the closeness she’d always known.
2. The Startle Reflex Can Be Disruptive
The Moro reflex, or startle reflex, is an involuntary response that causes babies to fling their arms out suddenly as if they’re falling. This reflex is strongest during the first few months of life and can easily wake a baby who’s just drifted off in their bassinet.
Why It Happens: When a baby is placed on a flat surface, their sense of security is momentarily disrupted, triggering the reflex. This can lead to crying and resistance, even if they were calm just moments before.
3. Temperature Differences Are Jarring
Imagine being snuggled up under a warm blanket, only to have it whisked away and be placed on a cool mattress. That’s what it feels like for babies when they’re transferred from your arms to the bassinet. The sudden change in temperature can make them feel uncomfortable and disrupt their sleep.
Tip: This is one of the easiest problems to address—we’ll discuss a “warm transfer” method later in this guide.
4. Sleep Cycles Can Be Tricky
Babies have shorter and lighter sleep cycles than adults, especially during the first few months. They spend more time in active sleep (a stage similar to REM), where they’re more easily disturbed by movement, noise, or changes in their environment. This can make the transition to a bassinet particularly tricky, especially if they’re not in a deep sleep when you put them down.
5. They Prefer a Snug, Secure Environment
In your arms, your baby feels enveloped, much like they did in the womb. A bassinet, with its flat and open design, can feel foreign and less secure. This is why swaddling can work wonders—it mimics that snug, comforting sensation.
Pro Tip: Not all babies love being swaddled, but there are plenty of options (arms-in, arms-out, or swaddle sacks) to find what works for your baby.
Understanding Their Needs Is the First Step
Babies resist the bassinet because they’re adjusting to life outside the womb, and that adjustment takes time. Once you understand what’s behind their behavior, it’s easier to approach the problem with empathy and practical solutions. The next step is to set up the bassinet—and your baby—for success. Stay with me, because we’ll cover exactly how to do that in the following section!
2. Preparing the Bassinet for Success
Now that we know why babies often resist the bassinet, let’s focus on setting up an environment that feels as welcoming and comforting as possible. A few small tweaks can make a world of difference in helping your baby feel secure and ready to sleep in their bassinet.
Create a Cozy and Safe Sleep Space
Babies thrive in environments that feel calm, predictable, and reminiscent of the womb. You can’t replicate your arms exactly, but you can set up the bassinet to feel just right.
The Ultimate Guide to a Sleep-Friendly Nursery
Control the Temperature
Babies are sensitive to temperature changes, and being too hot or cold can disrupt their sleep. A room that’s too cool might make the bassinet feel unwelcoming, while overheating can make sleep uncomfortable.
What to Do:
Keep the room temperature between 68–72°F, which is ideal for most babies.
Use a sleep sack instead of loose blankets to ensure safe and consistent warmth.
If your baby tends to run cool, try pre-warming the bassinet with a heating pad or warm towel (always remove it before laying your baby down).
Personal Note: I remember how my son struggled with the bassinet until I started pre-warming it on chilly nights. The difference was almost immediate—he settled in much faster and slept longer.
Block Out Light
A dark environment helps babies produce melatonin, the sleep hormone. Even small amounts of light—like streetlights or early morning sun—can disrupt their sleep cycles.
What to Do:
Invest in blackout curtains to keep the room dark, especially during naps and early morning hours.
If you need a nightlight for feeding or diaper changes, choose one with a soft red or amber glow, which is less likely to interfere with sleep.
Add White Noise
In the womb, babies are surrounded by constant noise—your heartbeat, the whooshing of blood, and muffled outside sounds. A bassinet, by contrast, is often too quiet, which can make it harder for babies to settle.
What to Do:
Use a white noise machine to create a soothing background sound. Look for one with continuous playback to avoid interruptions.
Set the volume to a level similar to a running shower (about 50 decibels) to help mask household or outside noises.
Choose the Right Bassinet
Not all bassinets are created equal, and finding one that suits your baby’s needs can make the transition easier.
Features to Look For:
A firm, flat mattress: This is essential for safe sleep and supports your baby’s developing spine.
Breathable sides: Mesh or breathable fabric sides promote airflow and reduce overheating.
Adjustable height: A bassinet that lines up with your bed can help you soothe your baby without picking them up unnecessarily.
Tip: If your baby seems particularly resistant, try a bassinet with gentle rocking or vibration features (as long as it’s safety-approved). Movement can help mimic the sensation of being held.
Familiarize Your Baby With the Bassinet
Sometimes, the bassinet feels unfamiliar simply because it’s new. Helping your baby build positive associations with the bassinet during awake time can make bedtime smoother.
What to Do:
Let your baby spend a few minutes in the bassinet during the day while they’re awake and content. Talk to them, sing, or offer a favorite toy to keep them happy.
Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the bassinet, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time.
Pro Tip: Try placing a piece of clothing that smells like you (safely outside the sleep area) near the bassinet to provide a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Laying the Foundation for Better Bassinet Sleep
By setting up a cozy, safe, and welcoming bassinet, you’re giving your baby the best possible chance to settle in and sleep peacefully. In the next section, we’ll dive into specific techniques to help ease the transition and make the bassinet feel like the perfect sleep spot. Stay tuned!
3. Helping Baby Adjust to the Bassinet
Now that you’ve set up the perfect bassinet environment, the next step is helping your baby feel comfortable and secure sleeping in it. Transitioning to the bassinet can take time, but with patience and consistency, your baby can learn to settle and sleep well in their new space.
Practice Bassinet Time During Awake Hours
Babies are more likely to accept the bassinet if it’s already familiar to them. Introducing it during their happiest and most alert times can help create positive associations.
What to Do:
Start small: During playtime, place your baby in the bassinet for short periods while they’re awake and content. Smile, talk, or sing to them so they associate the bassinet with positive feelings.
Add familiarity: Place a clean, safe item with your scent near the bassinet (not in it) to help your baby feel comforted.
Be consistent: Repeat this practice daily to build familiarity.
Personal Note: With my son, I started by placing him in the bassinet for just five minutes during tummy time breaks. Over a few days, he started kicking happily in the bassinet, which made bedtime transitions smoother.
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
A predictable bedtime routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down and sleep. These routines also provide a sense of security, making the bassinet feel like a natural part of the process.
From Bath to Bed: Building a Bedtime Routine Your Baby Will Love
What to Do:
Keep it simple: A routine might include a bath, a feeding, a few minutes of cuddling, and a calming lullaby or book. Keep the routine consistent to cue your baby that sleep is coming.
Dim the lights: Reduce stimulation by dimming the lights and lowering the noise about 30 minutes before bedtime.
End in the bassinet: Place your baby in the bassinet when they’re drowsy but awake. This helps them learn to fall asleep independently.
Try Swaddling for Security
Swaddling can recreate the snug, comforting feeling of being held, which can help ease your baby’s transition to the bassinet. It also helps reduce the startle reflex, which often wakes babies in the early months.
What to Do:
Use a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket or a swaddle sack designed for safety and comfort.
Ensure the swaddle is snug around the arms but loose at the hips to allow for healthy development.
If your baby doesn’t like being swaddled, try a transitional swaddle with arms-out options or a sleep sack.
Pro Tip: Swaddling isn’t suitable for babies who are starting to roll. In that case, switch to a wearable blanket or sleep sack for added comfort.
Use the “Warm Transfer” Method
One of the most common reasons babies wake when placed in the bassinet is the sudden change in temperature. The “warm transfer” method can help minimize this shock and make the bassinet feel cozier.
What to Do:
Warm the bassinet mattress by placing a heating pad or warm towel on it for a few minutes before you lay your baby down. Always remove the heat source before placing your baby in the bassinet.
Transfer your baby feet-first into the bassinet. This gradual motion reduces the likelihood of startling them.
Once your baby is in the bassinet, keep your hands on them for a few seconds to provide a comforting sense of touch.
Personal Note: I used the warm transfer method on chilly nights, and it was a game-changer. My son settled in much faster and stayed asleep longer.
Soothe Without Picking Up
If your baby stirs or fusses after being placed in the bassinet, resist the urge to pick them up right away. Instead, try soothing them in the bassinet to help them learn to self-settle.
What to Do:
Gently pat their chest or rub their belly while using soft, shushing sounds.
Offer a pacifier if your baby takes one—it can be a comforting tool for settling.
Keep the environment calm and dark to reinforce that it’s time for sleep.
Be Patient and Consistent
Teaching your baby to sleep in the bassinet is a gradual process that requires consistency and patience. Some nights will go smoothly, while others might feel like a struggle. That’s okay—progress often comes in small steps.
What to Do:
Celebrate small wins, like getting your baby to nap in the bassinet for a short period, as these are building blocks for longer sleep stretches.
Stick to your routine even when it feels challenging—consistency is key to forming new sleep habits.
Moving Forward
Helping your baby adjust to the bassinet takes time, but the effort is well worth it for your baby’s safety and your family’s rest. In the next section, we’ll explore what to do if your baby still struggles and when it might be time to seek additional support. Hang in there—you’re doing an amazing job!
4. What to Do If Baby Still Struggles
If you’ve set up the perfect sleep environment, adjusted your routine, and tried every soothing technique, yet your baby still resists the bassinet, don’t lose hope. There are additional steps you can take to address persistent challenges and help your little one feel more at ease.
Evaluate Your Baby’s Routine
Sometimes, the issue isn’t the bassinet itself but the timing of your baby’s sleep. Babies thrive on consistency, but even a slightly misaligned schedule can throw off their ability to settle.
Look for Signs of Overtiredness
Overtired babies are often harder to settle because their bodies produce stress hormones like cortisol, making them more fussy and restless.
What to Do:
Watch for early sleep cues like rubbing eyes, yawning, or becoming less engaged with play.
Try putting your baby down slightly earlier to avoid the overtired state.
Check Nap Timing
Daytime sleep impacts nighttime success. If naps are poorly spaced or too short, your baby might be too tired—or not tired enough—by bedtime.
What to Do:
Ensure your baby is getting age-appropriate nap durations.
Avoid overly long naps late in the afternoon, as they can interfere with bedtime.
Reassess Sleep Associations
Your baby may be relying on certain habits—like being rocked or fed to sleep—that make it hard for them to stay asleep in the bassinet. These habits, while comforting in the moment, can create dependency on those conditions to fall back asleep.
What to Do:
Gradually shift to placing your baby in the bassinet drowsy but awake so they learn to self-soothe.
Use consistent sleep cues like a white noise machine, a dark room, and a simple bedtime routine to reinforce that it’s time for sleep.
Pro Tip: If your baby fusses, give them a few minutes to settle before intervening. Often, they’ll surprise you by soothing themselves back to sleep.
Address Underlying Comfort Issues
Sometimes, physical discomfort can make the bassinet seem less appealing.
Check for Reflux or Gas
Babies with reflux or gas may struggle to lie flat, which can lead to resistance to the bassinet.
What to Do:
If you suspect reflux, consult your pediatrician for guidance. They might recommend slight adjustments, like elevating the bassinet (only with safety-approved modifications).
Burp your baby thoroughly after feedings to reduce discomfort.
Experiment With Swaddle Alternatives
If your baby dislikes swaddling, they might feel uncomfortable or restricted in the bassinet.
What to Do:
Try a sleep sack or wearable blanket for a snug but less restrictive feel.
Use swaddle options with arms-out features for babies who prefer more movement.
Be Flexible but Consistent
While it’s important to stay consistent with your sleep strategies, don’t be afraid to experiment if something isn’t working. Every baby is different, and small changes can lead to big improvements.
What to Do:
Adjust bedtime by 10–15 minutes to see if that makes a difference.
Test different soothing techniques, such as gently patting your baby or offering a pacifier, to find what works best for them.
Personal Note: My son initially hated the bassinet until I started placing him in it for naps first. Once he got used to it during the day, nighttime resistance eased up dramatically.
When to Seek Additional Support
If your baby continues to struggle despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek extra guidance.
Signs You May Need Help
Your baby’s sleep challenges are causing significant stress or exhaustion for you or your family.
Your baby seems uncomfortable, in pain, or unusually fussy when placed in the bassinet.
You’ve tried multiple strategies consistently for 2–3 weeks with no improvement.
Who to Consult
Pediatrician: Rule out any medical issues like reflux, colic, or allergies that might be affecting sleep.
Sleep Specialist: A certified baby sleep consultant can create a customized plan tailored to your baby’s specific needs.
Hang in There—You’re Making Progress
Transitioning your baby to a bassinet is a process, and it’s normal to hit bumps along the way. Even if it doesn’t feel like it yet, every effort you make is bringing you closer to peaceful, bassinet-filled nights. Celebrate small victories, stay consistent, and remember that you’re not alone.
With time, patience, and the right support, your baby will learn to love their bassinet—and you’ll get a little closer to that much-needed rest.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This!
Helping your baby learn to sleep in a bassinet is no small feat, but it’s an important step for their safety and your peace of mind. Remember, your baby isn’t resisting the bassinet to frustrate you—it’s all part of their adjustment to life outside the womb. With patience, consistency, and the right strategies, you can guide them toward restful, independent sleep.
It’s okay if progress feels slow at times. Celebrate small wins, like a successful nap or a longer stretch of sleep in the bassinet, because those milestones add up. And don’t forget to care for yourself, too. Being a well-rested parent (or at least closer to it!) is just as important as helping your baby sleep.
If you’ve tried everything and still feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or a baby sleep consultant. Sometimes, an outside perspective can make all the difference.
Most importantly, trust yourself. You’re doing an amazing job, and your efforts will pay off. Before you know it, those peaceful nights will return, and the bassinet will become a cozy haven for your little one. Until then, take it one day—and one night—at a time. You’ve got this!
Feeling overwhelmed with your baby's sleep challenges? You're not alone! At Dreaming Littles, we're dedicated to helping you and your baby achieve peaceful nights and joyful mornings. Reach out to us for personalized guidance, support, and expert strategies tailored to your family's needs. Let's make those sleepless nights a thing of the past! Book your FREE consultation today!