Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also called a bassinet) is connected to the bed's side, so that your baby can be close enough to eat at night, while remaining safe in their own sleeping space. Our mothers love that they are easy to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to reach closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, soothe and feed their babies at night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can result in 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 Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also help encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. It's important that parents look for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and ensure they have been tested and certified by a trusted agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers in response to the newer models that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeping product 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 risk of entrapment. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision of the mandatory standard 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 reduce the chance of injury.
Remember that a bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could create the risk of suffocation since many young babies cannot lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclined position can cause the head to tilt forward, obstructing their airway. Always put your child on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper. Be sure to use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close during 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 for middle-of-the-night diaper changes, feedings and comforting. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could keep an eye on your baby without needing to leave the bed.
It is important to ensure that the bassinet meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is certified safe for babies. It is recommended to choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a strong attachment system. A breathable mattress should be considered.
Choose a model with a manual rocking function that's gentle on your baby and will aid in settling them down. Some models also come with tilting options that can be helpful for babies suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to buy one separately. Buy a mattress designed to be a perfect fit for the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft, and could pose a SIDS risk. You should also purchase a comfortable fitted bed sheet and blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier, check that the lining fabric or mattress can be cleaned in the machine. A storage shelf or basket is a convenient feature to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are large bedside crib with wheels that enable it to be moved around the home.
Breastfeeding support
If you plan to feed your infant at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will assist you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's side can be lowered to create a bed for side-by side sleeping. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides of the cot ensure that it's easy to see your baby and they won't fall off the side when you lift them up for a feed. Some cots for bedside sleepers feature an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and help them to go to sleep faster after a meal.
A soft fabric, as well as machine washable and removable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle vibration and rocking functions that can ease your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is another benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is a popular choice for breastfeeding mothers as it is practical and helps them to form the mother with a close relationship with her baby while they sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed and sleep together have much better outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. It is important to be aware of the dangers and practices that come with sharing the bed with a baby and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some beds have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which could cause your baby to become trapped. You also need to be careful not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, forming a gap that your baby could crawl into or roll into.
If you are concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They can also teach you how to enjoy the'sweet sleep that nursing mothers love and includes a variety of protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.