Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy feeding at night, but is safe in their own sleeping area. Our mothers appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also pivot or lower the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows infants to stay within reach of their parents' beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr. McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
These bassinets also help to foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and are certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers to respond to the newer models that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping device by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower part to be elevated above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision with reference to the mandatory standards in place under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products that have been in use longer than 180 days. It is expected reduce the chance of injury.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could create the risk of suffocation since many infants are unable to lift their heads high enough to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to tip forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs while using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Being close to your baby you at night can help create a bond between newborns and parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached on the side of your mattress which allows you to reach your baby easily for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in the middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to allow for visibility, so you could watch your baby without needing to leave the bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet you purchase meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is safe for babies. It is recommended to choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A comfortable mattress is crucial as well.
Choose the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Some models also have tilt options which can be beneficial for newborns with reflux or colic but should only be used under the supervision of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with mattresses, while others require that you purchase one separately. Make sure you buy the right mattress to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet, since second-hand mattresses could be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. You will also need to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet for your bed and a muslin baby blanket. For ease of cleaning ensure that the lining fabric or foam mattress can be washed using the machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothes and muslins. There are also models with wheels that allow for easy movement around your home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to breastfeed, a cot that sleeps at your bedside can help you maximize your night-time feedings. By attaching to your bed, it permits you to reach easily when baby wakes for a feed. The cot's side can be raised to create a bed that is shallow for sleeping side-by-side. bedside crib and travel cot can also tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby and they won't roll out of the side as you lift them up for a feed. Some cots for bedside sleepers include an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and encourage them to fall asleep more quickly after a feed.
A soft fabric, as well as removable and machine-washable bedding can be beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models are equipped with gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help calm your baby into sleep. Having plenty of storage space is another bonus for breastfeeding mums.
It is beneficial for breastfeeding mothers to share their bed with their babies. This also lets them develop bonds of friendship while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a bed with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is vital that you know the safety risks and practices involved in sharing a bed with a newborn and select a mattress that is safe for your infant.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which could cause your baby to become trapped. Be sure to ensure that the mattress slide backwards. This could result in an opening in which your baby can crawl or roll.
If you are concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby and explain the risks of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to get the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy and includes a variety of protective factors similar to breastfeeding.