Both cribs and bassinets can be safe sleep choices for a newborn. However, they have several important differences.

The most obvious one is size — a baby crib takes up a lot more space than a bassinet, so a baby bassinet can be easier in a smaller house. Their smaller size also makes bassinets more portable. In addition, many bassinets have a hood or cover that you can pull over while baby is sleeping. Bassinets are also easier to use for many parents. Their sides are lower, so you don’t have to lean over the rail to place baby inside.

Cribs, on the other hand, can last longer -- some can even be converted to  baby cribs and last for years. The bassinet has a weight limit and is usually used only for the first few months of life. Cribs are also typically more expensive than cribs, but since they last longer, the total investment is lower if you go straight to the crib.