Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby can be close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own bed. Our mothers love that they are easy to reach and can also pivot or drop the sides to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows babies to be within reach of parents' beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without increasing the risks associated with sharing beds (which could result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are in line 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 provide immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can assist with milestones in development. Parents should seek out bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and have been endorsed by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert the bassinet into a bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail next to an adult bed, which allows some portions of the lower portion to be elevated level above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of the entrapment of. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision by reference to the mandatory standards in place under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should never be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could create a suffocation risk as many young babies cannot lift their heads enough to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to slide forward, obstructing their airway. Always put your child on their backs while using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close to you during the night. This helps create an emotional bond between parents and newborns. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached on the side of your mattress, allowing you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent and able to be seen through, allowing you to monitor your child without stepping up from bed.
It is essential that the bassinet you pick is certified as safe for babies by an independent testing organisation, and meets all the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress should also be included.
Find a model that has an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and will help settle them to sleep. Some models have tilt functions that can be useful for infants suffering from colic or reflux. However it should only be used under the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress while others require that you purchase a mattress separately. Be sure to purchase the right mattress to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet, as second-hand mattresses may be too soft and could pose the risk of SIDS. You'll also have to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For bedside cosleeper of cleaning make sure that the lining fabric or foam mattress can be washed using a machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a convenient feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. There are also models that have wheels for ease of movement around your house.
Breastfeeding support
If you choose to feed your infant at night sleeping in a cot beside your bed can aid you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. By securing it to your bed, it permits you to easily reach across when your baby is awake for a feed. The side of the cot can be lowered to create a bed that is shallow for side-by side sleeping. Some models also tilt to support reflux.
The curving 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 feeding. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature that will calm your child and help them to fall back asleep faster after a feeding.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a soft fabric and removable bedding that can be machine-washed are a great option. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features which can calm your baby into sleep. The storage space is also a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is a popular choice for breastfeeding mothers due to it being convenient and provides an intimate bond with their baby during sleep. Research has proven that infants who breastfeed and share a sleep space have higher outcomes than infants fed by bottles. However, it is important that you know the safety risks and practices involved in bed-sharing with a newborn baby and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.
travel cot bedside sleeping bags in the bed have soft edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. Be sure to ensure that the bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could result in an opening through which your child can crawl or roll.
If you're worried about the safety of a baby or mother who sleeps next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. Talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and explain the risks of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.