Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our mothers love that they are simple to reach, and they can also pivot the sides and drop them to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their newborns at night without worrying about the dangers of sharing a bed. This could 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 Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also offer instant breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, encouraging healthy attachment that can assist with milestones in development. Parents should search for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and have been certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers in response to the newer models that transform from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress and presents an increased chance of being entangled. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for sturdy toddler or infant products that have been used for more than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injuries.
Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could create an obstructing risk since young babies cannot lift their heads enough to pull them away from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to slide forward blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back in a crib, bassinet, play yard or bedside sleeper and be certain to use sheets that are fitted to meet federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you throughout the night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. baby bedside sleeper attach securely to the sides of your mattress which allows you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could watch your child without needing to leave the bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet you purchase meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is deemed safe for babies. You should look for a broad base, a sturdy attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A comfortable mattress is crucial as well.
Find the model that comes with the option of manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and can help them sleep. Some models come with tilt features that can be useful for babies suffering from colic or reflux. However it is only recommended on the advice of a GP or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress while others require that you purchase one separately. Find a mattress made to be suitable for the bedside sleeper. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft and pose a SIDS risk. It is also necessary to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For ease of cleaning make sure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed using a machine. A storage shelf or a basket can be a useful option to store things like nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can also find models with wheels for mobility around the house.
Breastfeeding Support
If you choose to feed your baby at 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 whenever you wake up. The cot's side can then drop down to create a bassinet that is shallow for safe side-by-side sleeping. Certain models can also tilt for reflux support.
The curved sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't fall off the side as you lift them up to feed. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature which can calm your child and encourage them to go back to sleep quicker after a meal.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle vibration and rocking functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. The storage space is also a bonus for breastfeeding mums.
It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This also lets them develop a close bond while they sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed who sleep with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of sharing a bed with a newborn and to choose the right mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft surfaces on the edges, which could trap your baby. Be sure to not let the mattress slide backwards. This could create a gap into which your baby can crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper you should consider attending an LLL meeting or talking with a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can explain how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They will also teach you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.