Where Should A Newborn Sleep?

Do I need a crib or a bassinette for my new baby? It used to be so simple: you were going to give birth to a baby, so you needed a crib. But now, like everything else, there are many choices, epecially for the first few weeks. You could choose a bassinette, co-sleeper, portable crib, or crib. And if you have twins, do you co sleep them or put them to bed alone? Consider your family's needs and start from there. If you're not entirely sure, and the time for a decision is drawing near, you may want to purchase something easy to move around, in case you change your mind.

What type of crib should I buy? The crib is still the most popular option for the new baby. Even if they start out in a bassinette, they are going to eventually need a crib. and crib bedding. Twins especially are encouraged to co- sleep in a crib until they are two or three months old. They are usually placed at opposite ends of the crib until they grow too large and begin interferring with each other's sleep patterns by kicking or moving.

How expensive are they? Crib prices can range from very simple cribs at Sears for $100 or up to a $1000 at speciality stores . Cribs come in a large variety of styles, finishes & shapes -- pecan, honey, mahogany, white and almost any paint color including black. You can choosewood or iron, sleigh styles, or even round cribs. The most popular color is white.

What about a bassinette? A bassinette is a great choice for the early weeks of your baby's life. Most bassinettes have wheels so you can move it easily from room to room. If Baby's fussy nights are to be spent in your room or if you are breastfeeding, the bassinette is a great choice. But remember: while the small size of the bassinette is cozy for your newborn, after about six weeks most babies will need something larger. Bassinetts are sold at most baby furniture stores.

I've heard about co-sleepers. Can you tell me more? An alternative to the bassinette is a co-sleeper, which pushes up against the side of your bed and is perfect for the middle-of-the-night bottle or late breastfeedings. It is simple: you pick up your baby, feed him or her, and putthem right backin bed without leaving your bed and losing any extra sleep.

What are portable cribs? The portable crib can be used for almost anything -- sleeping, playing, travelling. There are several models on the market with terrific features like changing table attachments, adjustable floor heights and fabulous mobiles. Most are collapsible which makes them practical for travelling. The Pack and Play is one of the most popular designs and makes travelling to Grandma's or the baby sitter's house much easier on everybody