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 at night, while remaining safe in their own bed. Our mums love how they are simple to reach, and they can also rotate the sides or drop them to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely within reach of their parents' beds for nighttime feeding, comforting and monitoring without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping. They are endorsed by childcare experts such as director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
These bassinets also help to encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This will help them reach their milestones in their development. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and make sure they've been tested and approved by a trusted agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer products that convert from a bassinet into a bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail to an adult bed, and allowing certain areas of the lower side to be elevated level above the mattress, which presents an increased risk of trapping. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision of the 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 reduce the risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should not be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This can pose an obstructing risk since infants are unable to lift their heads enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclined position can cause the head to tip forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close throughout the night. This helps create bonds between parents and newborns. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the side of your bed and let you easily reach your child for middle-of-the-night diaper changes, feedings and comforting. We searched for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to allow for visibility, so you could watch your baby without having to get out of bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet meets the American Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is safe for babies. You should choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress should also be considered.
Choose a model with an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and can help settle them to sleep. Certain models have a tilt feature that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. However, this should only be used on the advice of a doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Buy bedside cot newborn designed to be a perfect fit for the bedside sleeper. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and could cause SIDS. You should also purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and the muslin baby blanket. For ease of cleaning ensure that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed in a machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a convenient feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. There are models that have wheels to help you move it around the house.
Breastfeeding support
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position will help you make the most of your feedings at night. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby once you wake up. The cot's side can be adjusted to create a shallow bed to sleep side-by-side. Some models also tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby up to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some cots for bedside sleepers feature an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and help them to go to sleep more quickly after a feed.
When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a cosy bedding and a removable material which can be washed by a machine can be very beneficial. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features that can help soothe your baby to sleep. Having plenty of storage space is another an advantage for breastfeeding moms.
It is beneficial for nursing mothers to share a bed with their babies. This also allows them to form an intimate bond during their sleep. Research has shown that infants who breastfeed and sleep together have higher outcomes than infants fed by bottles. However, it is important that you know the safety dangers and procedures involved in sharing a crib with a newborn and choose a safe mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft edges, which could trap your baby. Also, you must be aware not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you're concerned about the safety of your baby or mother sleeping next to you, attend an LLL meeting. or talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits. They can help you create an environment that is safe for your baby and explain the risks of SIDS. They can also educate you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.