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 feed them at night while remaining secure in their own sleeping space. Our moms love how they are simple to reach, and can also swivel the sides or drop them to reach closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot lets babies to be within reach of their parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without exposing them to the dangers associated with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr. McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, creating healthy attachments that help with developmental milestones. large bedside cot should seek out bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and are certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from an infant bassinet to the bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, which allows certain areas of the lower portion to be at an elevated level above the mattress, which presents an increased risk of trapping. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision based on the mandatory standards in place in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which have been in use more than 180days and is expected reduce the chance of injury.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This can be a suffocation hazard as infants aren't able to lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position may cause the head tip forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you at night can help build a bond between newborns and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the side of your mattress, allowing you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to allow for visibility, so you could watch your child without having to get out of bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is certified safe for infants. You should choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress is essential also.
Find the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them fall asleep. Some models also come with tilt options that can be helpful for infants suffering from reflux or colic but should only be used under the guidance of your doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress however, others require you to buy one separately. Make sure you buy a mattress that is designed to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet. Second-hand mattresses could be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You will also need to buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a the muslin baby blanket. For easy cleaning, check that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed using a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a great option for storing necessities such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are models that have wheels that help you move it around the house.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you choose to feed your baby in the night, a sleeper cot by your bed will assist you in getting the most from your feedings. By securing to your bed, it permits you to reach over easily when your baby wakes up to feed. The cot's side can then lower to create a bassinet that is shallow for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models can tilt for reflux support.
The curved sides make it easy to see and lift your baby to feed. They won't fall off the side. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and help them to return to sleep quicker after feeding.
A cosy fabric and machine washable and removable bedding are useful in keeping your baby clean. Some models feature gentle rocking and vibration functions that can ease your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also be happy with the storage space.
Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers because it is convenient and provides a close bond with their baby during their sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and practices involved in sharing a bed with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your infant.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. Also, be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you're worried about the safety of a baby or mother who sleeps close to you, go to a LLL meeting. Or talk with an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy that includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.