Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) can be 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 mums love how they are easy to reach, and they can also swivel the sides or lower them to be closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits babies to be within reach of parents in their beds for feeding at night, providing comfort and monitoring, without exposing them to the dangers associated with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots comply with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts like Dr McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use. Also, make sure that they've been tested and certified by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers in response to the newer products which convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. 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 in use for more than 180 days. It is expected to lower the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This can be a suffocation hazard as young babies are unable to lift their heads up enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position may cause the head tip to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you throughout the night can help create a bond between newborns and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely on the side of your mattress and allow you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent and visible through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without having to get up from the bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet is in compliance with the American Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is deemed safe for infants. You should choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a strong attachment mechanism. A breathable mattress should also be included.
Look for models that have a manual rocking feature. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them sleep. Some models also come with a tilt option that can be helpful for infants suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets include a mattress while others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure you purchase a mattress that is designed to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet. Second-hand mattresses may be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and the muslin baby blanket. Make sure the fabric lining and foam mattress, which can be washed by machine for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or a basket can be a useful feature to store things like nappies clothing, muslins, and clothes. You can also find models that have wheels for ease of movement around your house.
Breastfeeding support
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position can help you get the most out of your evening feedings. By securing it to your bed, it allows you to reach easily when baby wakes to feed. The cot's side can then drop down to create a bassinet that is shallow to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides of the cot ensure that it's easy to see your baby and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up for a feed. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and help them to fall asleep faster after eating.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are useful in keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle vibration and rocking functions that can ease your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is also a an advantage for breastfeeding moms.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers as it is convenient and provides a close bond with their baby during sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a bed with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. However, it is important that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and select a mattress that is safe for your baby.
bedside crib that turns into cot have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which may cause your baby to become entrapped. You must also be cautious to not let your bedside device slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your baby can crawl or roll.
If you're worried about the safety of a mother or baby who sleeps close to you, go to a LLL meeting. Talk to a Sleep Leader about your child's sleep habits of the. They can explain how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep that nursing mothers love and includes a variety of protective factors similar to breastfeeding.