Getting a newborn to sleep in a bassinet can feel impossible, especially when they prefer sleeping in your arms. Many parents struggle with the transition from cuddling to bassinet sleeping, wondering, “Why won’t my newborn sleep in the bassinet?”
The truth is, newborns are used to the warmth and movement of the womb, making the bassinet feel unfamiliar. However, with the right techniques and sleep strategies, you can help your baby sleep in their bassinet peacefully.
In this guide, we’ll cover why your baby won’t sleep in a bassinet, proven tips to help your newborn sleep better, and how to make the transition smoother.
Why Won’t My Newborn Sleep in a Bassinet?
Newborns have strong sleep associations and prefer comforting environments similar to the womb. If your baby cries in the bassinet or wakes up as soon as you put them down, here’s why:
📌 Common reasons newborns won’t sleep in a bassinet:
✔ They prefer sleeping in your arms – The bassinet feels cold and unfamiliar.
✔ Startle reflex wakes them up – Babies have an involuntary Moro reflex, causing sudden wake-ups.
✔ Hunger or discomfort – Newborns need frequent feedings and may wake up due to hunger.
✔ Gas or reflux – Lying flat can be uncomfortable for babies with reflux or gas issues.
✔ Sleep cycle is light – Newborns spend more time in active sleep, making it easier to wake up.
💡 Key takeaway: Babies need time and consistency to adjust to bassinet sleeping, but gentle techniques can make the transition easier.
How to Get a Newborn to Sleep in a Bassinet: 10 Proven Tips
1. Create a Cozy Sleep Environment
Newborns sleep best in warm, womb-like settings. A comfortable sleep environment can make the bassinet feel safe and familiar.
📌 Tips to make the bassinet more inviting:
✔ Warm the bassinet with a heating pad (remove it before placing the baby inside).
✔ Use a snug swaddle to prevent the startle reflex from waking them.
✔ Keep the room dark and quiet or use a white noise machine.
💡 Tip: Avoid using blankets or pillows in the bassinet for safety reasons.
2. Establish a Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
📌 Simple newborn bedtime routine:
✔ Bath time or gentle massage to relax them.
✔ Feeding to ensure they aren’t hungry.
✔ Swaddling for comfort and warmth.
✔ White noise to mimic womb sounds.
💡 Tip: Start the routine at the same time each night to help your baby recognize bedtime.
3. Use Swaddling for Comfort
Swaddling mimics the snug feeling of the womb, helping your baby feel secure and relaxed.
📌 How to swaddle your newborn for better sleep:
✔ Use a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket.
✔ Make sure the arms are snug, but the legs have some movement.
✔ Stop swaddling when your baby starts rolling over (around 2-3 months).
💡 Tip: If your baby dislikes swaddling, try a sleep sack for similar comfort.
4. Lay Your Baby Down Drowsy, Not Asleep
If you always rock or nurse your baby to sleep, they may struggle to sleep in the bassinet without your help.
📌 How to teach self-soothing:
✔ Wait until your baby is drowsy but awake before placing them in the bassinet.
✔ Let them settle on their own instead of rocking to full sleep.
✔ Use gentle pats or a pacifier if they fuss but don’t pick them up immediately.
💡 Tip: Babies who learn to fall asleep independently sleep longer and wake up less often.
5. Try White Noise for Soothing Sleep
Newborns love white noise because it mimics the whooshing sounds of the womb.
📌 Best ways to use white noise:
✔ Use a white noise machine or a fan on low.
✔ Keep the sound consistent but not too loud.
✔ Avoid sudden silence—gradually lower the volume if needed.
💡 Tip: White noise can help reduce outside noises that may wake your baby.
6. Keep Nighttime Feedings Calm & Quiet
If your baby wakes up hungry, avoid overstimulating them.
📌 How to keep nighttime feedings relaxing:
✔ Keep the room dimly lit.
✔ Avoid talking or playing—stay calm and gentle.
✔ Lay them back in the bassinet immediately after feeding.
💡 Tip: A burping session before sleep can prevent gas discomfort.
7. Try the Bassinet During Naps First
If your baby hates the bassinet at night, try using it during daytime naps.
📌 How to help your baby adjust:
✔ Let your baby nap in the bassinet for short periods during the day.
✔ Stay nearby to offer gentle reassurance.
✔ Gradually increase bassinet time before transitioning to full nights.
💡 Tip: Start with one nap per day in the bassinet and work your way up.
8. Address Reflux or Gas Issues
If your baby has reflux or gas, sleeping flat in the bassinet may be uncomfortable.
📌 Ways to help:
✔ Keep your baby upright for 20-30 minutes after feeding.
✔ Use a firm bassinet mattress (avoid wedges or inclines).
✔ Try bicycle leg exercises to relieve gas.
💡 Tip: If reflux is severe, consult a pediatrician for advice.
9. Be Patient & Stay Consistent
Babies need time to adjust to sleeping in a bassinet. If your baby resists at first, keep trying!
📌 Stay consistent by:
✔ Placing them in the bassinet every night (even if they wake up).
✔ Using the same sleep cues (swaddle, white noise, bedtime routine).
✔ Giving them gentle reassurance without picking them up too quickly.
💡 Tip: Most babies adjust within 1-2 weeks with consistent effort.
Final Thoughts
Wondering how to get a newborn to sleep in a bassinet? The key is consistency, comfort, and patience. Newborns need time to adjust to sleeping alone, but using gentle techniques can make the transition easier.
💡 Key Takeaways:
✔ Create a cozy sleep environment with warmth, white noise, and swaddling.
✔ Follow a bedtime routine to help your baby recognize sleep cues.
✔ Encourage self-soothing by putting your baby down drowsy but awake.
✔ Be patient—it may take time for your newborn to get used to the bassinet.
With these tips and sleep strategies, you can help your baby sleep peacefully in their bassinet and give yourself some much-needed rest!
FAQs: How to Get Newborn to Sleep in Bassinet?
Disclaimer: The content on Passive Parenting is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert for parenting or medical concerns.
