Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our moms appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also pivot or lower the sides to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows infants to stay within reach of parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, providing comfort and monitoring, without exposing them to the dangers associated with sharing beds (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts like director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also offer instant breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, encouraging healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. Parents should look for bassinets which are easy to clean and safe to use and are certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers in response 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 a portion of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress and poses an increased risk of being entangled. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for products for toddlers and infants that have been in use for more than 180 days. It is expected to decrease the risk of injury.
Remember that the bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could pose 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 tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper and be sure to use only an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you throughout the night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. Bedside sleeper bassinets attach securely to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your little one for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, as well as comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to allow for visibility, so you could monitor your baby without having to leave your bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is deemed safe for infants. Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a solid construction that will stop the bassinet from tipping over. A breathable mattress should be considered.
Find a model that has a manual rocking feature. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them fall asleep. Some models also come with a tilt option which can be beneficial for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with mattresses and some require you to purchase one separately. Make sure you buy the right mattress to fit the bedside bassinet, as second-hand mattresses could be too soft and could pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also have to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For ease of cleaning ensure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed using the machine. A storage shelf or basket is a great option to store necessities like nappies clothing, muslins, and clothes. There are best bedside cots with wheels that enable it to be moved around the home.
Support for breastfeeding
If you plan to feed your baby in the night, a sleeper cot by your bed can aid you in getting the most from your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby once you wake up. The cot's side can then be lowered to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to provide support for reflux.
The curved sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby up to feed. They won't fall off the side. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature which can calm your child and help them to fall asleep quicker after a meal.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models feature gentle rocking and vibration functions that can ease your baby to sleep. Ample storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers because it is practical and helps them to form a close bond with their baby during sleep. over here has proven that infants who breastfeed and have a shared space to sleep have higher outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and pitfalls of sharing an infant's bed and to select the right mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which may cause your baby to get entrapped. You should also be careful to not let your bedside device slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your child can crawl or roll.
If you are concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking with a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can help you create an environment that is safe for your baby and help you understand the dangers of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.