How to assemble a bassinet

A bassinet is a small sleep space for the first months, often on a stand, sometimes rocking or side-sleeper style against the parents' bed. It is built from few parts, but each one, especially the mattress and any side-attach straps, has to be exactly the maker's own.

Time
about 30 min
Difficulty
Easy
People
1 person
Steps
7

Tools needed

  • Allen key (supplied)
  • Cross-head screwdriver

Parts to check first

Before you start, lay everything out on a soft surface (the flattened box works) and check it against the parts list in your manual.

  • Stand or legs
  • Basket or frame with fabric sides
  • Firm mattress made for this bassinet
  • Bed-attach straps, for side-sleeper models
  • Wheel or rocker locks

Step by step

  1. Step 1: Check every part against the list and do not use the bassinet if anything is cracked, torn or missing.

  2. Step 2: Build the stand with its bolts and check it stands level with no wobble before the basket goes on.

  3. Step 3: Lower the basket onto the stand and lock it into place; pull up on each side to confirm it will not lift off.

  4. Step 4: Fit the bassinet's own mattress, and check it lies flat and touches the sides all round with no gap.

  5. Step 5: For a rocking model, set the lock so it stays still when unattended; for a side-sleeper, fit the straps to the adult bed exactly as the manual shows.

  6. Step 6: Push the bassinet firmly at the top edge to check it cannot tip, then lock any wheels.

  7. Step 7: Note the maker's age and weight limits, and the milestone, such as rolling or pushing up, when you must move the baby to a crib.

Common mistakes

  • Replacing the thin firm mattress with a thicker or softer one.
  • Adding bumpers, pillows or positioners.
  • Carrying on using it after the baby can roll or has passed the limit.

Safety notes

  • Follow your local safe-sleep guidance: baby on their back, on the firm flat mattress supplied, with nothing loose in the bassinet.
  • Keep it away from cords, heaters and windows.

This is general guidance for this type of product. Your product's own manual comes first: follow its order, fittings and torque values where they differ from this page.

Updated 2026-09-30