Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed so that your baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own bed. Our moms love how they are simple to reach, and can also rotate the sides or drop them to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely within reach of parents' beds for nighttime feeding, providing comfort and monitoring, without putting them at risk with sharing beds (which could 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. bedside cots for newborns , director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
These bassinets also help to promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This will help them reach their milestones in their development. Parents should seek out bassinets that are easy to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers due to the latest products that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping product by dropping a side rail adjacent to an adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower part to be elevated above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates by 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 risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could be a suffocation hazard as infants aren't able to lift their heads high enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position may result in the head tipping forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is crucial to keep your baby close throughout the night. This can help create bonds between newborns and parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the side of your bed and let you easily reach your baby to change diapers feedings, as well as 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 having to leave your bed.
It is important to ensure that the bassinet you purchase meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is certified safe for babies. Make sure you choose a large base, a sturdy attachment mechanism, and a solid construction that prevents the bassinet from falling over. A mattress that is breathable is important as well.
Choose a model that has a manual rocking feature. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and can help them sleep. Some models have tilt features which can be beneficial for newborns who suffer from colic or reflux. However this is only recommended on the advice of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with mattresses, while others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure you buy the right mattress to fit the bedside bassinet. Second-hand mattresses could be too soft and could pose the risk of SIDS. You should also buy a breathable fitted bed sheet and muslin baby blanket. To make cleaning easier make sure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed in the machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models with wheels that allow for easy movement around your home.
Support for breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you to get the most out of your evening feedings. By securing to your bed, it permits you to easily reach across when your baby is awake to feed. The side of the cot can be lowered to create a bed that is shallow to sleep side-by-side. Some models can also tilt for reflux support.
The curving sides allow you to see and lift your baby up to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some bedside sleeper cots also have an automatic rocking feature which can soothe your baby and encourage them to go to sleep quicker after feeding.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a cosy bedding and fabric that can be washed in the machine are helpful. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features which can calm your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also be happy with the storage space.
It is beneficial for breastfeeding mothers to share their bed with their babies. This allows them to form 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. However, it is important to be aware of the hazards and practices that come with sharing a bed with a newborn and select a mattress that is safe for your infant.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft surfaces on the edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. Also, be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby could crawl into or roll into.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and explain the risks of SIDS. They will also teach you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.