The SNOO bassinet has become a game-changer for many new parents. With its gentle rocking motion, soothing sounds, and automatic response to your baby’s needs, it’s no surprise that the SNOO is often referred to as the “smart bassinet.” If you’ve recently brought one into your home or are considering it, you might be wondering how to use it effectively to help your baby sleep soundly. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Let’s dive into how to use the SNOO bassinet to its fullest potential so both you and your baby can enjoy better sleep.
Why Choose the SNOO Bassinet?
Before I jump into the how-to, let’s quickly touch on why the SNOO is so popular among new parents. The SNOO is designed to mimic the soothing motions and sounds of the womb, helping babies feel calm and secure. It’s equipped with a smart system that automatically detects your baby’s fussing and adjusts the rocking motion and sound level to soothe them back to sleep. This makes it a great option for parents looking for a hands-off solution to help their babies sleep longer and more peacefully.
Setting Up the SNOO Bassinet
Step 1: Choose a Safe, Comfortable Location
The first thing you need to do is place the SNOO in a safe, quiet location near your bed for easy access during nighttime feedings or comforting. It’s important to make sure the bassinet is on a flat, stable surface—avoid putting it on an incline or near any hazards.
Step 2: Install the SNOO Sack
The SNOO works with a special swaddle called the SNOO Sack. These are designed to safely and securely attach your baby to the bassinet, preventing rolling over while also providing that soothing, snug feeling babies love. Make sure to use the correct size for your baby’s weight and age, and securely fasten the SNOO Sack’s velcro straps to ensure your baby stays safely in place.
Step 3: Plug in the SNOO and Turn It On
Once your SNOO is set up, plug it into an outlet, and you’re ready to go. The bassinet has a user-friendly touchscreen that allows you to easily control settings like the sound and motion speed. There’s also a mobile app that lets you adjust settings remotely.
Don’t worry, the app will walk you through the setup process and help you customize everything to your preferences.
How to Use the SNOO to Help Your Baby Sleep
Step 1: Choose the Right Motion and Sound
The SNOO offers a variety of sound options like white noise, soothing heartbeat sounds, and nature sounds. You can adjust the volume to suit your baby’s preferences. As for the motion, the bassinet will automatically detect if your baby is fussing and increase the rocking speed. However, you can also manually adjust the intensity, starting with a gentle motion and gradually increasing it as needed.
Step 2: Trust the SNOO’s Smart Features
One of the standout features of the SNOO is its ability to automatically respond to your baby’s fussing. When your baby starts to cry or get fussy, the SNOO increases the rocking speed and sound to help soothe them back to sleep. This can be a lifesaver for parents who want to avoid picking up their baby every time they cry. The SNOO is designed to gradually settle your baby without overstimulating them, encouraging a peaceful sleep cycle.
Step 3: Monitor Your Baby’s Sleep
The SNOO app lets you keep track of your baby’s sleep patterns. You can view sleep data in real-time, which can be helpful for understanding your baby’s sleep habits. The app also gives you the option to adjust settings remotely, so if you’re out of the room, you can still keep an eye on things.
What to Do if Your Baby Doesn’t Settle
Sometimes, even with all the features, babies still need a little extra comfort. If your baby doesn’t settle after the SNOO adjusts the motion or sound, here are a few things to try:
Check the SNOO Sack: Ensure that the SNOO Sack is securely fastened and your baby isn’t feeling restricted.
Feeding or Diaper Change: If it’s been a while since your baby was fed or changed, they might just need some comfort before returning to sleep.
Comforting Touch: While the SNOO is designed to help soothe your baby, a gentle touch or soft words can sometimes help them feel more secure.
Step 4: Weaning Off the SNOO or Transitioning Cold Turkey
As your baby grows and becomes more independent, you’ll eventually want to transition them from the SNOO to a crib. The SNOO is typically recommended for use up until around 6 months, or until your baby is able to get on hands and knees. Gradually wean your baby off the bassinet by lowering the motion speed and sounds over time. This helps ease the transition to a crib without upsetting their sleep routine. Many babies start to find the motion of the SNOO no longer soothing around 4 months old when their sleep cycles mature. If a slow gradual weaning is not for you, there is always the option of going cold turkey and sleep training at the same time! This means teaching your baby how to fall asleep independently while moving into the crib without the swaddle all at once.
Safety Tips for Using the SNOO
While the SNOO is a wonderful tool for promoting better sleep, safety is always a priority. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Always use the SNOO with the SNOO Sack to ensure your baby is securely swaddled.
- Never place additional blankets or stuffed animals in the bassinet, as this could create a suffocation hazard.
- Follow the recommended weight and age guidelines for the SNOO Sack and bassinet.
- Always keep the SNOO on a stable, flat surface, and ensure it is plugged into a working outlet.
In Conclusion:
The SNOO bassinet is an innovative tool designed to help babies—and parents—get the sleep they need. With its soothing motion, calming sounds, and intelligent response to fussing, it takes the guesswork out of helping your baby sleep soundly. By following the setup and usage tips above, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restful sleep environment for your baby, allowing both you and your little one to enjoy more peaceful nights.
If you’re ready to improve your baby’s sleep, the SNOO might be just what you need to
get started.