Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own bed. Our moms love that they are easy to reach and can also pivot or lower the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely within reach of their parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, comforting and monitoring without exposing them to the dangers associated with sharing beds (which could lead to 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 help promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use. make sure that they've been tested and approved by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers due to the newer models that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeping product by the side rails being lower adjacent to an adult bed. This allows certain areas of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress and presents an increased risk of getting trapped. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision with reference to the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of 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 risk of injuries.
Be aware that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should not be used in conjunction with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could pose a suffocation hazard as babies are unable to raise their heads high enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position could result in the head tipping to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always put your child on their back in a crib, bassinet, play yard or bedside sleeper. Be sure to use sheets that are fitted to meet the federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you at night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed and allow you to easily reach your baby for middle-of-the-night diaper changes, feedings and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could watch your child without having to get out of bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is safe for infants. You should choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a strong attachment system. A mattress that is breathable should be included.
Look for a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and will help them sleep. Some models also come with tilting options that can be helpful for newborns with reflux or colic but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure you buy a mattress that is designed to fit in your bedside bassinet. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You should also purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier make sure that the fabric lining or mattress can be washed in the machine. A storage shelf or basket can be a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothes, and muslins. You can also find 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 securing to your bed, it permits you to easily reach across when your baby wakes up for a feed. The cot's side can be raised to create a bed that is shallow to sleep side-by-side. Certain models tilt to help with reflux.
The curved sides of the cot ensure that it's easy to spot your baby, and they won't slide off of the side as you lift them up for a feed. Some cribs with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and encourage them to fall asleep quicker after a meal.
When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a cosy fabric and removable bedding that can be washed in the machine are a great option. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration features that can help soothe your baby into sleep. Having plenty of storage space is another an advantage for breastfeeding moms.
best bedside cots -sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers because it is easy and allows them to have an intimate bond with their baby while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who sleep with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing a bed with a newborn and to select a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. You also need to be cautious not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, creating 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 talking with a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you to understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep the nursing mothers get that includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.