$1,700 robotic bassinet promising better baby sleep through responsive rocking and white noise. Created by Dr. Harvey Karp (Happiest Baby methodology). Became status symbol for wealthy millennial parents 2017-2023. Added safe sleep swaddle preventing rolling, approved for overnight use unlike competitors.
The Sleep Obsession
Capitalized on exhausted parent desperation and “sleep training” culture. Promised extra 1-2 hours nightly. Rental model ($159/month) made it accessible to more families. Sleep-deprived parents called it “worth every penny” or “baby whisperer.” Critics called it overpriced privilege.
Pandemic Boom
Sales exploded 2020-2021 as parents worked from home with newborns. No family help meant desperate need for sleep solutions. Snoo rentals sold out repeatedly. Sparked debate about “buying” baby sleep vs responsive parenting. Some called it essential support; others said it created sleep dependency.
https://www.happiestbaby.com/products/snoo-smart-sleeper https://www.wired.com/