Bassinet with harness

I got a bassinet at a baby shower that has straps similar to that of a bouncer (doesn't go over the shoulders just between the legs and around the waist). I wouldn't be able to use a sleep sack with this and I'm having a winter baby and want to bundle him or her up at night. I know that the instructions say always use the straps but I know this could also be for lawsuits. Would it be ok to cut these straps? Does anyone have alternative ideas?