Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) is attached to the bed's side so baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our moms love how they are simple to reach and also swivel the sides or drop them to reach closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their infants at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. discover this 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.
These bassinets also help to promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve milestones in their development. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and make sure that they've been tested and approved by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers to respond to the newer models that transform from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by the side rails being lower next to a adult bed. This allows a portion of lower side to be elevated above the mattress and poses an increased risk of being entangled. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision with reference to the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products which have been in use more than 180days and is expected to lower the risk of injuries.
It is important to remember that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This can pose a suffocation risk as many infants are unable to lift their heads enough to pull them away from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position could cause the head to slide forward, blocking their airway. Always put your baby on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard, or a bedside sleeper. Be sure to use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close during the night. This can help create bonds between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassinets attach securely to the side of your bed and allow you to easily reach your little one for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent and visible through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without stepping up from 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. You should choose a bassinet with a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress should be included.
Find a model that has an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and can help them sleep. Some models come with tilt functions that can be useful for babies suffering from colic or reflux. However it is only recommended on the advice of a doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress however, others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Be sure to purchase the right mattress to fit in your bedside bassinet. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also need to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For ease of cleaning make sure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed using a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are many models that have wheels that make it easier to move around the house.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to nurse your baby at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will aid you in getting the most out of your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby when he wakes up. The cot's sides can lower to create a shallow bassinet for safe side-by-side sleeping. Some models also tilt to accommodate 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 cots with a bedside sleeper include an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and encourage them to return to sleep faster after a meal.
When it comes to keeping baby clean, a cosy fabric and removable bedding that can be washed in the machine can be very beneficial. Certain models are equipped with gentle rocking or vibration functions that can help aid in calming your baby. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers as it is practical and helps them to form a close bond with their baby while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a bed with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. But, it is crucial that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and choose a safe mattress for your infant.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft surfaces on the edges that can keep your baby in the bag. Also, you must be aware not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you are concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking with a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can explain how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help you to understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also educate you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.
