Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) is attached to the bed's side so that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our mums love how they are easy to reach, and they can also rotate the sides or lower them to be closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their infants at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots comply with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr. McKenna director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. Parents should search for bassinets that are easy to clean, safe to use, and have been endorsed by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers due to the newer models that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping product by the side rails being lower in front of a bed for adults. This allows certain areas 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 based on the current mandatory standards under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which have been used for more than 180days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should never be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This can pose the risk of suffocation since many infants are unable to lift their heads sufficiently to remove them from soft objects. A reclined position could cause the head to slide forward, obstructing their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you during the night helps create a bond between newborns and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets are secured to the side of your mattress, allowing you to reach your baby easily for feedings, diaper changes, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through to allow you to monitor your child without stepping up from bed.
It's important that the bassinet you select is deemed safe for babies by an independent testing agency and that it meets the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a bassinet that has a wide base and a strong attachment mechanism. A mattress that is breathable should be considered.
Find models that have a manual rocking feature. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them fall asleep. Certain models also have a tilt option, which can be helpful for babies suffering from reflux or colic but should only be used on the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets include a mattress however, others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft, and may cause SIDS. It is also necessary to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. Make sure bedside crib co sleeper lining and foam mattress, which can be washed by machine for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or a basket is a great option for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. There are also models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you to get the most out of your night-time feedings. By attaching to your bed, it allows you to easily reach across when your baby is awake for a feed. The cot's side can be lowered to create a shallow bed for side-by side sleeping. Some models also tilt to accommodate reflux.
The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy to see your baby and they won't slide off of the side as you lift them up to feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper include an automatic rocking function that can help calm your baby and help them to return to sleep more quickly after a feed.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a cozy bedding and a removable material that can be washed in the machine can be very beneficial. Certain models are equipped with gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help calm your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers because it is practical and helps them to form the mother with a close relationship with her baby during their sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who sleep 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 crib with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. Be sure to not let the bedside device slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your baby could crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help to understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep that nursing mothers love that includes many safeguards that are similar to breastfeeding.