Best Bassinet For C-Section and Breastfeeding Moms [Comparison Review]

Most baby gears are expensive. And the best bassinet for c-section and breastfeeding moms can be one of them. It doesn’t seem practical to have one as you can only use it for a few months. 

But when you’re recovering from a c-section while taking care of your baby, these c-section bassinets would be heaven-sent.

It would make it less painful to tend to your baby, especially during night feedings as you don’t need to keep on getting up from your bed!

A high-quality bassinet can also be used for your next babies or can be sold for a decent price online.

So if you’re looking for one that’s worth the money, this article is for you. These are the most popular and highly recommended bassinets by moms and baby experts.

Let’s take a look first at the features you should consider when deciding on the best bassinets for c section mommies

I hope you’ll love the products we recommend! Just a quick note: if you click on a product link below and decide to buy it, we may earn a small commission.

In a Hurry? Here’s Our Top Recommendations


Comparison Table: Best Bedside Bassinet for Breastfeeding and C-Section Moms

This is best viewed on a desktop. Here’s a quick comparison guide on the features of the best co-sleeper bassinets for c section mommies and breastfeeding mamas.

BrandLarge footprint/ baseMesh sidesAdjustable Height
HALOYesAvailable on all sidesAvailable
Arm’s Reach CambriaYesAvailable Available
Mika MickyYesAvailableAvailable
PapablicYesAvailableAvailable
Arm’s Reach VersatileNoAvailableAvailable
Chicco Close to You YesAvailableAvailable
SwaddleMeNoAvailableNot applicable

Below is more detailed info on these best bassinet for breastfeeding and c-section moms.

Best Bassinet for C-Section and Breastfeeding Moms

These are the best bassinets for c-section and breastfeeding moms that can easily be moved near or away from your bed. Where you can effortlessly lower the side to reach your baby.

HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper Bassinet for C-section

  • Product Dimension: 34 x 18 x 12 inches
  • Adjusts for bed heights from 22″ – 34″

This is probably the most mentioned, highly recommended bassinet for c-section and breastfeeding moms online. And I can see why!

Its swiveling feature makes it easy to soothe and keep your baby close, without getting out of your bed. You can then swivel the bassinet out of your bed so you can sleep again or get up easily.

bassinet for c section
pic from HaloSleep website

I wished I had this bassinet before! That’s a very useful and thoughtful feature to have for c-section moms.

The mesh wall lowers down easily so you can reach your baby without having to stand up. It’s also the kind of mesh wall that springs back up automatically – no need to fold or zipper it up. 

You can also choose to lock the bedside wall in an upright position.

Its height is adjustable so it can fit any kind of bed, no matter how low or high it is. 

You also don’t need to worry about the HALO Bassinet tipping or falling over as it’s very sturdy and stable. The four-point base makes it so, which also annoys some parents, as some tend to trip over it.

It’s also very heavy, it’s not easy to carry it around so it has to stay in one room.

Some parents also complained of the bassinet tilting, which causes the baby to roll towards the side of the bassinet. While most parents didn’t really see this tilt.

The HALO Bassinet is also quite expensive. Most moms opted for a slightly used version that one can buy on the Facebook marketplace.

Pros

  • meets all applicable CPSC, ASTM, and Health Canada requirements
  • Stable and sturdy
  • Adjustable height
  • Has 360º swivel feature
  • Can lower and/or lock mesh sides
  • Small storage pocket
  • Wipe clean with a damp cloth

Cons

  • Too heavy to move
  • Can trip on the four-point base
  • Expensive
  • Has complains of tilting

Arm’s Reach Cambria Wooden Co-Sleeper Bassinet for C-section

  • Product Dimension: 34 x 20 x 33.75 inches
  • For bed heights starting at 24″, measured from the floor to the top of the adult mattress
  • Adjust between 24″ and 30″ in 2″ increments in co-sleeping mode.

‎Product Dimension: 34 x 20 x 33.75 inches

If you don’t like the large base nor the “tilting” reviews from the HALO, then consider Arm’s Reach Bassinet. A lot of breastfeeding and c-section moms online have been recommending this.

It doesn’t have HALO’s swivel feature but you can still easily move this towards and away from your bed because of its 4 castor wheels (with lock feature). 

Having wheels also means you can easily move this around the house! 

It’s also not as heavy as the HALO to lug and carry around. It’s portable enough to carry for traveling or vacation, but not as portable as a pack n play. 

Another thing that most moms love about the Arm’s Reach is its foldable side panel. It doesn’t get in the way when you want to take out the baby, and there’s no unnecessary rustling noise that can wake up your baby, unlike the HALO.

You can keep the mesh wall down all night to effortlessly reach in and comfort your baby or you can also fold the side up.

Its height is also adjustable and you can choose to attach this to your bed as a co-sleeper.

Some moms have also mentioned how it was easier to transition their baby to the crib through the Arm’s Reach Bassinet.

best bassinet for c section
pic from Arm’s Reach website

It’s also stable and durable enough that some moms mentioned using it for their 3 babies.

It also has some side storage pockets and a bottom storage that can hold diapers, wipes, sheets, and anything you might need in the middle of the night. 

But for c-section moms, I wouldn’t recommend using the bottom storage as it would be quite hard to bend down and stand up again, given your condition.

Also, some parents have complained about how its mattress – how hard, thin and low quality it is.

Pros

  • Stable and sturdy
  • Adjustable height
  • Has wheels
  • Retractable mesh side panel
  • Portable
  • With side and bottom storage
  • Wipe frames with a damp cloth

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Thin mattress

Mika Micky Baby Bassinet Bedside Sleeper

  • Product Dimension: 24.5″L x 36.1″W x 32.7″H
  • For bed heights starting at 18” to 26” of height
  • 7-height adjustable sleeping area to the floor from 13” to 21”

This is one of the most popular and highly recommended bedside bassinet by tons of parents and even baby experts.

I have a Mika Mickey bassinet review here if you want to know more but this is easily a favorite among the parents because it has a lot of useful features.

It has an adjustable height to accommodate any bed heights, wheels to make it easy to move it around, and storage pockets to keep small baby essentials.

It’s also pretty easy to assemble and it’s one of the best affordable bassinets out there

It’s also one of those bassinets that can fit large, tall babies because it’s quite spacious!

You can also attach this to your bed with its fastening straps, so it won’t easily move, even if you have another kid pulling at the side.

It also comes with a 2-side mesh wall, one of which you can fold down to easily reach for your baby.

Pros

  • JPMA certified
  • Affordable
  • Can be attached to your bed
  • Adjustable height
  • Comes with wheels
  • Has some storage for small baby items

Cons

  • Has complaints of being wobbly
  • Has complaints of having an uneven surface

Papablic 2-in-1 Bonni Baby Bassinet for C section

  • Dimension: 33.5″ L x 20.9″ W
  • Height acceptable for adult bed: Min. 21.63″, Max 26.1″

This one is not as popular as the HALO and the Arm’s Reach but it has a lot of positive reviews online.

The Papablic 2-in1 Bassinet is like the Arm’s Reach Co-sleeper, but cheaper – with no bottom storage and not as portable.

But it still works great as a bedside bassinet for c-section moms because of the mesh sides that can be zippered down, so you can easily see your baby. Some moms wished that all its sides were meshed and breathable.

It has an adjustable height with a safety auto-lock, to fit all sorts of beds. You can also choose to attach this to your bed using its fastening straps.

bedside bassinet
pic from Papablic website

It comes with wheels (with safety brake locks) making it easy to move to and away from your bed or even all around the house. 

Some parents find it annoying because the wheels keep locking.

It also comes with a travel bag but some parents don’t find it convenient to bring for vacations. As it’s quite a large bassinet and assembly and folding is not as easy, compared to a pack n play.

Other parents also don’t like how hard the mattress feels while most are okay with it.

It’s also very stable and durable, with its upgraded iron and aluminum frame.

It also has some side pockets for keeping diapers and wet wipes.

Pros

  • Meet ASTM and CPSC Standard
  • Stable and sturdy
  • Adjustable height
  • Can zipper down one side
  • Small storage pocket 
  • Spot cleaning with a damp cloth

Cons

  • Wheels keep locking
  • Has complains of the hard mattress

Arm’s Reach The Versatile Co-Sleeper for Breastfeeding

Product Dimension: ‎36.2 x 28.5 x 41.5 inches

If you don’t like HALO’s huge footprint nor its swiveling feature, then maybe consider the Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper.

This can also go on top of your bed, especially if it’s a tall one.

It doesn’t have an overwhelmingly large base or footprint so you don’t need to worry about tripping over it. 

It’s very simple to set up and it’s not too bulky, making it great for small spaces.

It also includes a mobile with hanging toys, color rings, and a music box that plays 5 tunes! 

It also has a mesh, breathable side but some moms wish that the side could be folded or can dipped down easily, so it would be more convenient to take out their babies.

It’s lightweight enough to move from room to room but not portable for traveling.

Some moms also mentioned that it’s not easy to move on a carpeted area.

Pros

  • Meets all ASTM standards
  • Stable and sturdy
  • Not bulky, great for small spaces
  • Adjustable height, especially for tall bed
  • Easy to move from room to room
  • With toy mobile and music box
  • Wipe clean with a damp cloth

Cons

  • Has complains of not moving easily on carpet
  • Sides are not foldable or retractable

Chicco Close to You SE Bedside Bassinet

Product Dimension: ‎45″L x 28″W x 44″H

Think of the HALO but without the swivel and the push-down walls.

Now add the wheels, and that’s basically what the Chicco Close To You bassinet is.

You can’t strap it next to your bed but you can move it away or towards you when necessary, as it has wheels.

It’s a tall bassinet that comes with an adjustable height, accommodating beds between 21.5” – 30.5” tall.

Its base can go right under the bed and it also has a vibration mode and music, to soothe your baby.

You can check out how it works in the video below:

Pros 

  • JPMA certified
  • Adjustable height
  • Can go slightly over the bed
  • Breathable mesh walls
  • Comes with wheels
  • Has vibration mode and music

Cons

  • Has complaints about the vibration
  • Has complaints about its wheels getting stuck in lock mode

SwaddleMe By Your Side Sleeper Bassinet for Breastfeeding

Product Dimension: ‎6.1 x 17.2 x 15.7 inches

Now if you’re on the fence about sharing your bed with your baby (as in your baby is sleeping beside you on the bed the whole night) then you might not like this one.

But if you have a very clingy newborn that just won’t sleep on their bassinet that’s already on the bed next to you, then maybe it’s time to consider this.

Especially if you’re going crazy with the lack of sleep and cluster feedings.

The SwaddleMe BedSleeper fits king-size beds well with its simple structure and narrow size. 

It has a sturdy metal frame that will keep you and your spouse from rolling over it. 

Some parents though have complained about it not having some paddings around the frame, as their babies tend to knock their heads on it.

Some moms have shared that their husbands don’t sleep with them on the bed when they’re using the SwaddleMe BedSleeper. 

Especially when their bed is a queen size. Not sure how husbands react to this but I guess the safety of the baby comes first!

Other parents complained that it doesn’t work well for them, as any movement in the bed tends to affect the baby, making him or her move a lot in the bassinet as well.

Some parents also noticed that the bassinet makes some noise when the baby moves in, which wakes up the baby.

Still, a lot of moms find its size and mesh side convenient and useful, as they can see their baby in it and quickly check on them.

Plus it’s so easy to reach for the baby when it’s time to nurse as they’re right just beside you on the bed!

It’s also durable and long-lasting enough that some moms even used this for their 2 babies.

It’s also super portable and can be brought for vacations and travels.

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Sturdy and durable
  • With metal frame to protect the newborn from getting rolled over
  • Breathable mesh sides
  • Foldable and portable
  • Wipe frames with a damp cloth

Cons

  • Tight fit on a queen-size bed
  • Shifts baby’s position when there’s movement on the bed

The other bassinets had some issues – wobbly frame, were hard to move around, difficult to lower down the side, etc.

But do check out the rest that I’ve shortlisted but didn’t make the final cut below if you’re interested. These also had a lot of mentions from parents online plus had some great feedbacks and reviews. 

Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper 

I have an extensive Mika Micky product review here, if you’d like to know more about this bassinet.





Best Bassinets for C Section & Breastfeeding Moms: Features To Consider

Size

Most bassinets can take a considerable amount of space so consider the size of your bedroom. Can a bassinet still fit in it comfortably? 

Is the footprint or feet/ base too wide to fit in your room? Can you imagine yourself constantly tripping on it? Is there still enough space for you and your spouse to comfortably walk and move around?

Safety

The best bassinet for c-section moms must be sturdy and strong enough. Stable enough that even large pets or older kids can’t knock it over and it can securely hold your baby’s weight.

A durable bassinet can also last longer, so you can still use it when you have another kid or more!

One with mesh sides is also ideal to have so you can easily see your baby inside it.

Adjustable

You should be able to adjust the height of the bassinet according to how low or how tall your bed is. One where you have the option to attach it to your bed is also nice to have.

A bassinet where the side can be lowered and raised easily is a must-have.

You can just easily lower the side, grab your baby, and put them back, without having to stand all together. Also with a meshed, lowered side, you can easily reach in and check your baby without having to get up from your bed at all.

I’m not sure if veteran moms do this but I remember as a first-time mom before, I always checked on my baby’s breathing. I’ll gently put my hand on her chest and see if it’s rising up and down.

I know it’s a bit scary and paranoid but apparently, it’s normal behavior among new moms

So having a bedside bassinet where you can easily see your baby and touch them, without having to get off the bed, walk to and bend over their crib, is a relief to have.

Portability

Look for a bassinet that’s lightweight enough to be carried around the house. So you can also use it whenever you have to work or do chores in another room.

It would be ideal if it’s portable enough to be carried when traveling or going on vacations.

Maintenance

Make your life easier by looking for a bassinet that’s easy to clean. A bassinet that can be quickly wiped clean with a damp cloth or a towel that is damp with a mix of water and vinegar is ideal to have.

You still need to deal with the occasional spit-ups and diaper blowouts so having a bassinet that’s a breeze to clean will help make your life easier.

It would also be nice if you can easily get some standard sheets for it, instead of specific sheets that are usually expensive.

FAQ for Best Bassinet for C Section

Do you need a bassinet?

No, but it will make your life easier as a c-section or even a breastfeeding mom, especially if the bassinet can be easily moved around next to your bed and has a mesh side that can easily be lowered. It can also be a great temporary crib option for small spaces.

Why get a C-section bassinet?

It’s hard to move around when you have a c-section. And when you’re the sole caregiver to your newborn, you need to constantly get out of bed and bend over to get your baby for night feedings and round-the-clock tending.

These movements can put pressure on your wound, which can aggravate the pain, making recovery longer.

Having a bedside bassinet for c-section helps in lessening movements by letting you reach easily for your baby, without having to get out of bed.

An adjustable bedside c-section bassinet that can be placed on the same level as your bed, allows you to quickly check on your baby and safely monitor them through the night, without having to stand up and bend over.
One with wheels or a swiveling feature makes it convenient to move it away from your bed when you need to.

When do you need a bassinet?

You will only need it for the 4th trimester or until your baby moves around and starts rolling. Some parents manage to use their bassinets for up to 5 months so it depends on how active and mobile your baby is.

Best Bassinet After C Section: Helpful Tips

• Please don’t buy a mattress topper or any other mattress that didn’t come with the bassinet.

I know some parents feel that the bassinet mattresses are too hard for their newborn but there’s a reason for that. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a crib with a firm mattress so it won’t conform to the shape of your baby’s head. It also won’t let your baby sink in it, which can cause suffocation.

If the mattress feels soft for you, that probably means it’s not firm enough for your baby.

• Remember to avoid heavy housework, exercising, or any activities that will strain your muscles and will make you breathe hard. Always check with your doctor on when you can resume regular activities.

• Reach for a pillow and gently press on your c-section area when you need to cough or laugh. The pressure makes such movements less painful.

• Sleep on the couch! That’s actually what I did. It was a shame though cause my in-laws prepared a room and even bought a new bed for me but it was just too high and so uncomfortably painful to get on and out of it.

I found it easier and less painful to stand up from the couch as I can use its back to pull myself into a sitting position. Assuming your couch is in your living room, you also have your TV there to entertain you for late-night feeds. Plus you have more space for your breast pump, water, pain meds, burp clothes, food, diaper, etc.

Get a bed handrail like this one so you have a secure and safe grip when you get out of bed, like a hospital bed rail.

• If you don’t want to move around your bassinet but you still want to keep your baby close, get a Snuggle Me Organic or DockaTot! They’re also highly recommended by a lot of parents online. It will keep your hands free in any room when you need to do chores or work but you will want to keep an eye on your baby. Just take note though of the risk, as they are not recommended for sleeping. You can probably use it for nap time when you’re awake right beside them but I wouldn’t recommend sleeping at night with your baby in either loungers.

• Keep the cats out of the bassinet. They can bring in some of their roadkill, knock off the bassinet, or worse, accidentally sit on your newborn. I have cats, I love them, but I wouldn’t them on sleeping and hanging out in the bassinet or crib, so keep them out.

Takeaway on the Best Bassinet For C-section

Given the features and reviews from parents, my vote goes to Arm’s Reach and the HALO BassiNest. I wished I had either of these c-section bassinets before!

The Arm’s Reach for its quality, portability, maneuverability, and accessibility. And HALO BassiNest swiveling feature, especially the ability to keep your baby close to your bed but still move them away when you need to.

If you like this guide, check out my Ultimate Guide on How To Get A Newborn To Sleep In A Bassinet.

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Julie