Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also known by the name bassinet) is connected to the bed's side so that your baby can be close enough to feed them at night while still being safe in their own bed. Our mothers appreciate that they are simple to reach and can also swivel or drop the sides to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their babies at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can 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 to their parents, creating healthy attachments that help with developmental milestones. Parents should look for bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and are certified 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 a bassinet into a bedside sleeper, by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, allowing certain areas of the lower portion to be elevated level above the mattress, presenting an increased risk for trapping. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard set under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for products for toddlers and infants that have been in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to decrease the chance of injuries.
Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This can pose a suffocation risk as many young babies cannot lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects and a reclining position can cause the head to tip forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper. Be certain to use sheets that are fitted to meet the requirements of the federal government.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you at night can help create a bond between newborns and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the sides of your mattress which allows you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could keep an eye on your child without having to get out of bed.
It's important that the bassinet you select is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organization and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a broad base, a sturdy attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure which prevents the bassinet from tipping over. bedside crib to cot that is breathable is important as well.
Find models that have the option of manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and can help them sleep. Some models also come with tilt options which can be beneficial for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used on the guidance of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with mattresses and some require you to buy one separately. Make sure you purchase the right mattress to fit the bedside bassinet, as second-hand mattresses can be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. It is also necessary to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. To make cleaning easier ensure that the lining of the fabric or mattress can be washed in the machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothing and muslins. You can find models that have wheels that enable it to be moved around the home.
Breastfeeding support
If you decide to nurse your baby at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will aid you in getting the most out of your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby once they wake up. The side of the cot can be adjusted to create a bed to sleep side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt for reflux support.
The curving sides allow you to see and raise your baby up to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some cribs with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that can help your child relax and encourage them to go back to sleep faster after eating.
A cosy fabric and machine washable and removable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models feature gentle rocking and vibration features which can help soothe your baby to sleep. Having plenty of storage space is also a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers due to it being practical and helps them to form a close bond with their baby during sleep. Research has revealed that babies who are breastfed and have a shared space to sleep have much better outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. It is vital to be aware of the dangers and procedures involved in sharing a crib with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft surfaces on the edges that can trap your baby. Also, you must be careful not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby could crawl or roll into.
If you're concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can explain how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.