Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so that your baby is close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own space to sleep. Our moms love how they are simple to reach and also swivel the sides or lower them to be closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, comfort and feed their newborns at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can 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 the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide immediate breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, creating healthy attachments that assist with milestones in development. It's important that parents look for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use. Also, make sure they've been tested and approved by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer models that convert an infant bassinet to the bedside sleeper by lowering one side rail next to an adult bed, and allowing some portions of the lower portion to be elevated height above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of trapping. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bedside or bassinet should never be used with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This could create an obstructing risk since young children aren't able to raise their heads enough to keep them from soft objects. A reclined position can cause the head to tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always place wooden bedside cot on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper and be certain to use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you at night can help build a bond between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely on the side of your mattress and allow you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes, and comforting in the middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could monitor your baby without needing to leave the bed.
It is important to ensure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is deemed safe for infants. Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure which prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A mattress that is breathable should be included.
Find the model that comes with a manual rocking feature. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them fall asleep. Certain models have a tilt feature that is beneficial for infants suffering from reflux or colic. However it should only be used on the advice of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress, while others require you to buy one separately. Make sure you buy the right mattress to fit in your bedside bassinet, as second-hand mattresses may be too soft and pose the risk of SIDS. You'll also need to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress can be machine washed for ease of cleaning. A basket or shelf for storage is a great option for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. You can find models with wheels that enable it to be moved around the home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you plan to feed your baby in the night, a sleeper cot by your bed can assist you in getting the most out of your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's side can be lowered to create a bed that is shallow to sleep side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to provide support for reflux.
The curving sides make it easy to see and raise your baby up for a feeding. They won't roll off the side. Some cribs with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and help them to go back to sleep quicker after a meal.
When it comes to keeping baby clean, a cozy fabric and removable bedding which can be washed by a machine are helpful. Some models come with gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help aid in calming your baby. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
Discover More -sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers due to it being convenient and provides a close bond with their baby during their sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed who share a bed with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. However, it is important that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with sharing a crib with a newborn and choose a safe mattress for your baby.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which could cause your baby to get entrapped. Also, 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 safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can explain how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.