Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also called a bassinet) is connected to the side of a bed so that your baby can be close enough to feed them at night, while remaining safe in their own space to sleep. Our mothers love that they are simple to reach, and they can also rotate the sides or drop them to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits newborns to be safely within reach of parents in their beds for feeding at night, as well as monitoring and comfort, without increasing the risks associated with sharing beds (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts such as director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also help foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve developmental milestones. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use. Also, make sure they've been tested and approved by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer models that convert an infant bassinet to a bedside sleeper, by dropping one side rail to an adult bed, which allows some portions of the lower side to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of trapping. The CPSC's direct 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 used for more than 180 days and is expected to reduce the chance of injury.
Be aware that a bedside or bassinet is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This can pose a suffocation risk as many infants are unable to lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects and a reclining position can cause the head to tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs while using a crib, bassinet or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you at night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and their parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached on the side of your mattress and allow you to reach your baby easily to change diapers, feeds, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent and able to be seen through so you can monitor your child without stepping up from the bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet you purchase meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is safe for infants. Make sure you choose a large base, a sturdy attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure that will stop the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress should also be included.
Look for a model that has a manual rocking feature. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and can help them sleep. Certain models have a tilt feature that is beneficial for infants suffering from colic or reflux. However this should only be used under the advice of a doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress and some require you to purchase one separately. Buy a mattress designed to be a perfect fit for the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft, and could be a risk for SIDS. You'll also need to purchase a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. For ease of cleaning ensure that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed using a machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to breastfeed, a cot that sleeps at your bedside will help you maximize your feedings at night. By securing it to your bed, it allows you to reach over easily when your baby is awake to feed. The cot's sides can lower to create a shallow bassinet for safe side-by-side sleeping. Certain models tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some cots with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking function that can help calm your baby and help them to go to sleep quicker after feeding.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking and vibration functions that can ease your baby to sleep. The storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
It is beneficial for nursing mothers to share the bed with their infants. bedside co sleeper allows them to form a close bond while they sleep. Research has proven that infants who breastfeed and have a shared space to sleep have higher outcomes than infants fed by bottles. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and practices that come with sharing an infant's bed and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft edges that can keep your baby in the bag. Also, be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your child may crawl into or roll over.
If you are worried about the safety of a bedside sleeper you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can assist you in creating an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.