Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also known by the name bassinet) is connected to the bed's side to ensure that your child can be close enough to feed them at night while still being safe in their own space to sleep. Our mothers appreciate that they are simple to reach and can also pivot or drop the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their babies at the night without worrying about the dangers of sharing a bed. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are in line 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 help foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and ensure they have been tested and approved by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from a bassinet into the bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail next to an adult bed, which allows certain areas of the lower portion to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of trapping. The CPSC's direct rule incorporates by reference this 2023 revision to the current mandatory standard set under 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 decrease the risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should never be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This can be an entrapment risk since young babies are unable to lift their heads up enough to free them from soft objects. A reclining position can result in the head tipping forward, blocking their airway. Always put your baby on their back in a bassinet, crib, play yard or bedside sleeper. Be sure to use only sheets that are fitted to meet the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close to you during the night. This can help create an emotional bond between parents and newborns. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached on the side of your mattress which allows you to easily reach your baby for diaper changes, feedings, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through, allowing you to monitor your child without stepping up from the bed.
It's important that the bassinet you pick is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation, and meets all the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure which prevents the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress should also be considered.
Choose a model with a manual rocking function that's gentle on your baby and will help settle them to sleep. Some models also have tilt options which can be beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used under the supervision of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Find baby bedside cot made to be a perfect fit for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft, and could cause SIDS. You should also buy a breathable fitted bed sheet and blanket for your baby. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress can be machine washed to make cleaning easier. A storage shelf or a basket can be a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can also find models with wheels for easy movement around your home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you plan to feed your baby in the night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed can help you get the most from your feedings. By securing it to your bed, it allows you to reach over easily when baby wakes to feed. The cot's side can drop down to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models tilt to help with 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 cots with a bedside sleeper include an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and encourage them to fall asleep faster after a meal.
A cosy fabric and machine washable and removable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This helps them form an intimate bond as they sleep. Research has proven that infants who breastfeed and have a shared space to sleep have much better outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing an infant's bed and to select an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some beds have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which may cause your baby to become entrapped. You must also be cautious to not let your bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could cause an opening through which your baby could crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of your baby or mother sleeping next to you, consider attending a LLL meeting. Or talk with a Sleep Leader about your child's sleeping habits of your child. They can assist you in creating a safe sleep environment for your baby and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They will also teach you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.