Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) fixes to the side of your bed so baby can be close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own space to sleep. Our mums love how they are easy to reach, and can also swivel the sides or drop them to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to supervise, comfort and feed their infants at night without having to worry about the risks of sharing a bed. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts like Dr. bedside cot newborn , director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
These bassinets also help to foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. Parents should search for bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from the bassinet into a bedside sleeper, by dropping one side rail next to an adult bed, and allowing certain areas of the lower side to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which presents an increased risk for trapping. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision with reference to the existing mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products that have been in use more than 180days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bedside or bassinet should not be used in conjunction with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This could be a suffocation hazard as babies are unable to lift their heads up enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position may cause the head to tip to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs while using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close throughout the night. This can help create bonds between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassinets attach securely to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby to change diapers, feedings and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent enough to be able to see through so you could keep an eye on your baby without needing to leave the bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is deemed safe for infants. It is recommended to choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A mattress that is breathable is important, too.
Look for a model with an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and will help settle them to sleep. Certain models have a tilt feature which can be beneficial for babies suffering from colic or reflux. However this is only recommended on the advice of a doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to be a perfect fit for the bedside sleeper. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and may cause SIDS. Also, you will need to buy a breathable fitted bed sheet and the muslin baby blanket. For easy cleaning ensure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be cleaned in a machine. A storage shelf or basket is a great option to store necessities like nappies, clothes, and muslins. You can find models that have wheels to make it easier to move around the home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to nurse your baby at night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed can aid you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. By securing to your bed, it permits you to reach over easily when your baby wakes up to feed. The cot's side can drop down to create a shallow bassinet for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides make it easy to see and lift your baby to feed. They won't slide off the side. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking function that can help calm your baby and encourage them to return to sleep more quickly after a feed.
When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a soft fabric and removable bedding which can be washed by a machine are a great option. Some models come with gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. The storage space is also a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This also lets them develop an intimate bond while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who sleep with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the dangers and practices that come with sharing a bed with a newborn and to select a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which may cause your baby to get trapped. You must also be cautious to not let your mattress slide backwards. This could result in a gap into which your child can crawl or roll.
If you are concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside you should consider attending an LLL meeting or talking with a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can assist you in creating a safe sleep environment for your baby, and help you understand the dangers 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.