Is Getting a Bassinet for a Stroller Worth It?

As new parents, the world of baby gear can be overwhelming. Among the many decisions to make, choosing the right stroller is crucial.

One option that often comes up is a stroller with a bassinet attachment. But is it really necessary?

This post will examine the pros and cons of bassinet strollers, helping you decide if they’re worth the investment.

We’ll look at what makes the best bassinet stroller, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and factors to consider before purchasing.

Whether you’re expecting your first child or adding to your family, understanding the value of a bassinet stroller can help you make an informed choice for your baby’s comfort and convenience.

What is a Stroller Bassinet?

A stroller bassinet is an attachment or feature that allows your baby to lie flat while in the stroller.

A bassinet provides a completely horizontal surface, unlike regular stroller seats, which are often slightly reclined or upright.

This design is specifically tailored for newborns and young infants who can’t yet sit up or support their heads.

Bassinets for strollers typically have high, sturdy sides and a firm, flat bottom.

They’re designed to mimic a bed, providing a safe and comfortable space for your baby to sleep while you’re on the move.

Most bassinet attachments are suitable for babies from birth up to about six months old or until they can sit up unassisted, usually around 20-25 pounds.

Advantages of Using a Bassinet Attachment:

Newborn comfort and support: A bassinet’s flat surface is ideal for newborns. It allows them to lie naturally, which is important for developing spine and neck muscles.
Proper sleep position: A bassinet provides a flat surface, which pediatricians recommend for safe infant sleep. This can be particularly useful for longer outings where your baby might nap.
Easy transitions: A bassinet lets you move your sleeping baby from home to stroller without disturbing them. This can be a big help for parents trying to maintain sleep schedules.
Parent convenience: Bassinet strollers often sit higher than regular stroller seats, making it easier for parents to check on and interact with their baby without bending down as much.
Weather protection: Many bassinet attachments come with covers or canopies that offer better protection from sun, wind, and light rain than standard stroller seats.

Potential Drawbacks:

Extra cost: Bassinet attachments or strollers with built-in bassinets are often more expensive than standard strollers.
Limited use period: Since bassinets are only suitable for the first few months, you might feel the investment isn’t worth it for such a short time.
Storage needs: Bassinets can be bulky, requiring more storage space at home and in your car.
Added weight: A bassinet can make your stroller heavier, which might be an issue if you need to lift it frequently.

Factors to Consider for Choosing Strollers and their Alternatives

When deciding if a bassinet stroller is right for you, consider these factors:

Your lifestyle: If you plan to be out and about frequently with your newborn, a bassinet might be more useful than for someone who stays home more often.
Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a stroller and if the added cost of a bassinet fits within that budget.
Storage space: Consider where you’ll store the bassinet when it’s not in use and whether you have room for it.
Climate: If you live in an area with extreme weather, a bassinet’s extra protection might be valuable.
Future plans: A bassinet attachment might be a good long-term investment if you want more children.

Alternatives to Bassinet Attachments:

If you’re unsure about getting a bassinet stroller, consider these alternatives:

Fully-reclining stroller seats: Some strollers offer seats that recline completely flat, providing a similar benefit to a bassinet but with longer usability.
Car seat adapters: These allow you to attach your infant car seat directly to the stroller frame, which can be convenient for short trips.
Baby-wearing: A wrap or carrier keeps your baby close and comfortable and requires no extra equipment.

Expert Opinions and User Experiences

Pediatricians often recommend flat sleeping surfaces for newborns, which aligns with the design of bassinet strollers.

Hannah Spink, Specialist Pediatric Physiotherapist., states, “For a baby’s spine to develop naturally in the way it’s supposed to, parents should aim for a lie-flat position. In this position, the hips will naturally turn into external rotation and abduction, which is the point where the hips are contained within the socket.”

Ultimately, many parents find the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, especially if they plan to be out and about frequently with their newborn.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution in parenting. What works best for your family might be different from others.

Conclusion

Whether a bassinet stroller is worth it depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget.

The best bassinet stroller offers comfort for your baby, convenience for you, and versatility for various situations.

While they provide excellent support and a safe sleep space for newborns, the limited use period and additional cost are factors to consider carefully.

When making this decision, consider your daily routines, storage space, and long-term plans. By weighing all these factors, you can determine if a bassinet stroller is a worthy addition to your baby gear collection.

We hope this guide helps you decide whether a bassinet stroller is right for your family. Have you used one? What was your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

For more information on baby gear and parenting tips, check out our articles on choosing the right resting space and creating a safe sleep environment for your newborn.