Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed so that your baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our moms love that they are easy to reach and that they can also swivel or lower the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot lets infants to stay within reach of parents in their beds for feeding at night, comforting and monitoring without increasing the risks associated with bed-sharing (which could result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots comply 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 offer instant nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets which are easy to clean and 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 in response to the newer models that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by dropping a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress, which poses an increased chance of getting trapped. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision by reference to the current mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products that have been used for longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the chance of injury.
Be aware that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should not be used in conjunction with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could pose a suffocation hazard as infants aren't able to lift their heads up enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head to tip to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always place your baby on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper. Be sure to use sheets that are fitted to meet federal requirements.
Convenience
It is crucial to keep your baby close throughout the night. This creates a bond between the parents and their infants. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your child for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, as well as comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without having to get up from bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet you purchase meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is deemed safe for babies. You should look for a bassinet with a wide base and a strong attachment system. A comfortable mattress is crucial also.
Find models that have an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Certain models have a tilt feature that is beneficial for newborns who suffer from reflux or colic. However this should only be used on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to buy one separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and could cause SIDS. You'll also have to purchase a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. Make sure the fabric lining and foam mattress are machine washable for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or basket can be a useful option to store essentials such as nappies, clothes, and muslins. There are also models with wheels that allow 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 attaching to your bed, it allows you to easily reach across when your baby wakes up for a feed. The cot's side can lower to create a bassinet that is shallow to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Some models can also tilt to support reflux.
bedside cot wooden curved sides make it easy to see and lift your baby up to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and encourage them to fall asleep faster after a feeding.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a cosy bedding and fabric which can be washed by a machine are helpful. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration features that can help soothe your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also be happy with the storage space.
Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers as it is practical and helps them to form the mother with a close relationship with her baby during their sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. However, it is important that you know the safety risks and practices involved in sharing a bed with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges that could trap your baby. You should also be careful to not let your mattress slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your baby could crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside take a look at attending an LLL meeting or talking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can assist you in creating an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and help you understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to get the "sweet sleep the nursing mothers get, which includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.