Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper (also called a bassinet) is attached to the side of a bed to ensure that your child can be close enough to feed them at night, while remaining safe in their own space to sleep. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and can also rotate or drop the sides to make them more accessible.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot allows babies to be within reach of their parents' beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without exposing them to the dangers associated with sharing beds (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are in line with 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 help encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This will help them reach their milestones in their development. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and ensure they have been tested and approved 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 products which transform from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping product by the side rails being lower next to a adult bed. This allows certain areas of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress and poses an increased risk of getting trapped. The CPSC's direct rule incorporates by reference this 2023 revision to the current mandatory standard in 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 lower the chance of injury.

Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could create the risk of suffocation since many young children aren't able to raise their heads enough to keep them from soft objects. A reclined position could cause the head to tip forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their backs when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.

Convenience

It is crucial to keep your baby close throughout the night. This can help create bonds between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely on the side of your mattress which allows you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through to allow you to keep an eye on your child without stepping up from bed.

It is crucial that the bassinet you choose is deemed safe for infants by an independent testing agency, and meets all the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a strong attachment system. A breathable mattress should be included.

Choose a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and will help settle them to sleep. Some models also have tilting options that can be helpful for infants suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health professional.

Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require that you purchase one separately. Be sure to purchase the right mattress 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 blanket for your baby. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress, which can be washed by machine to make cleaning easier. A storage shelf or basket is a great option for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. There are also models with wheels that allow for mobility around the house.


Breastfeeding support

If you decide to breastfeed, a cot that sleeps at your bedside will help you maximize your feedings at night. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby when they wake up. The cot's side can drop down to create a shallow bassinet for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models tilt to accommodate reflux.

The curved sides of the cot means that it's easy to see your baby, and they won't slide off of the side when you pick them up for a feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper have an automatic rocking feature which can soothe your baby and help them to fall asleep faster after a meal.

A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models are equipped with gentle rocking or vibration functions which can calm your baby into sleep. The storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.

Bed-sharing is extremely popular with 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 revealed that infants who are breastfed and sleep together have higher outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. It is vital that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and select a mattress that is safe for your infant.

Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft edges that can keep your baby in the bag. Also, bedside cots must be cautious not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your child may crawl into or roll over.

If you are concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking with a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help recognize the risks of SIDS. They will also teach you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.