How to Transition Your Baby to a Crib: Safe Sleep Tips & Soothing Solutions for New Parents

Moving your baby to a crib is a big milestone, and Baby Bloomers in Mt. Pleasant, SC, is here to guide you through it. With the right timing, setup, and soothing essentials, you can help your little one sleep safely and soundly while giving yourself peace of mind.

When Should I Move My Baby to a Crib?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing with your baby for at least the first six months, and ideally up to one year, on a separate sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet. This reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by up to 50% and helps with nighttime feedings and bonding.

Many parents begin the transition between 6-12 months, especially when:

  • Your baby starts rolling over or pushing up

  • They’ve outgrown the bassinet

  • You’re ready to encourage independent sleep

How Do I Make the Crib Comfortable and Safe?

While comfort matters, safety is the foundation of every restful crib setup. Here’s what your baby’s crib should include:

  • A firm, flat mattress with a snug-fitting fitted sheet

  • Place your baby on his or her back for all sleep times

  • A bare sleep space—no pillows, bumpers, toys, or loose blankets

  • A cozy sleep sack or wearable blanket instead of bedding

  • Room temperature should be between 68–72°F (20–22°C) to avoid overheating

You can also introduce a calming bedtime routine: a warm bath, soft lullaby, or story before placing your baby in their crib.

What Sleep Sacks and Swaddles Are Best for the Crib?

Sleep sacks are a safe and snug alternative to loose blankets, and are highly recommended by pediatricians. If your baby hasn’t started rolling yet, swaddles can help them feel secure, but should be discontinued once rolling begins.

Top picks for 2025:

Avoid weighted sleep sacks or swaddles, as safety authorities do not recommend them.

How Do I Safely Set Up the Crib?

To meet current safety standards, your crib should adhere to the standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and have:

  • Slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart

  • No drop-side rails, broken parts, or loose hardware

  • A firm, snug-fitting mattress

  • No sleep positioners, wedges, or plush items

Always place your baby on their back to sleep, and keep the crib away from windows, cords, and heat sources.

Which Crib Accessories Are Safe?

The list is short, but that’s a good thing. The only AAP-approved crib accessories include:

  • A firm mattress

  • A fitted crib sheet

  • A wearable blanket or sleep sack

Avoid bumper pads, toys, and stuffed animals, even if they look adorable.

How Do I Transition My Baby to Independent Sleep?

Helping your baby get used to their crib takes time and consistency. Try these steps:

  1. Begin with daytime naps in the crib

  2. Stick to a bedtime routine that your baby can expect

  3. Place your baby in the crib, drowsy but awake, to encourage self-soothing

  4. Use a sound machine to mimic the womb-like environment

  5. Offer gentle comfort as they adjust, while allowing brief moments for them to settle on their own

 Baby Bloomers Favorites for a Smooth Crib Transition

To make your little one’s crib transition smoother (and cozier), we recommend these Baby Bloomers essentials:

Explore more of our cribs, sleep essentials, and nursery furniture on our website or visit our in-store Mt. Pleasant location. 

Settling Into Sleep with Confidence

The crib transition marks a big step, but with safe sleep practices and soothing essentials, bedtime can become a smooth and peaceful part of your routine. At Baby Bloomers, we’re here to help you and your little one rest easy with products you can trust and advice you can count on.

For more parenting tips, nursery must-haves, and cozy sleep solutions, visit our Baby Bloomers Blog. Need assistance? We’re happy to help! Contact us or give us a call at (843) 856-9277.

 

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