Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so that your baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our mothers love that they are easy to reach and that they can also rotate or lower the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, comfort and feed their babies at night without having to worry about the dangers of bed-sharing. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts, such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, promoting healthy attachment that can assist with milestones in development. It's important that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use. make sure that they've been tested and approved by a reliable agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer products that convert from an infant bassinet to the bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail to an adult bed, and allowing certain areas of the lower side to be at an elevated level above the mattress, presenting an increased risk for trapping. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the current 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 more than 180 days. It is expected to lower the risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should never be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could pose a risk of suffocation since infants aren't able to raise their heads high enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position may cause the head tip to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always put your child on their backs while using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you throughout the night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely on the side of your mattress and allow you to easily reach your baby for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to be able to see through so you could watch your child without having to leave your bed.
It is crucial that the bassinet you select is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organization, and meets all the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a broad base, a strong attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that will stop the bassinet from slipping over. A breathable mattress is essential also.
Choose a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and will help settle them to sleep. Some models also come with tilt options, which can be helpful for babies suffering from reflux or colic but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you buy a mattress that is designed to fit the bedside bassinet, as second-hand mattresses may be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. You'll also have to invest in an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For easy cleaning make sure that the lining fabric or mattress can be cleaned in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are also models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to nurse your baby at night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed will aid you in getting the most from your feedings. By attaching to your bed, it permits you to reach easily when baby wakes for a feed. The cot's side can be raised to create a bed that is shallow for sleeping side-by-side. Some models also tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby and they won't roll out of the side when you pick them up to feed. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that can help your child relax and encourage them to go back to sleep quicker 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 feature gentle vibration and rocking functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also be happy with the storage space.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers because it is easy and allows them to have an intimate bond with their baby during their sleep. bedside cot co sleeper has shown that babies who are breastfed and sleep together have better outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. But, it is crucial that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with sharing a bed with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft edges that can keep your baby in the bag. You also need to be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming a gap that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or talking with a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can explain how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help to understand the dangers of SIDS. They will also inform you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.