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 eat at night, while remaining safe in their own space to sleep. Our mothers appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also swivel or lower the sides to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits infants to stay close to parents' beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without putting them at risk 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.
These bassinets also help to promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and ensure they have been tested and certified by a reputable agency like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer models that convert an infant bassinet to a bedside sleeper by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, and allowing some areas of the lower side to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard set under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for products for toddlers and infants that have been in use for more than 180 days. It is expected to lower the chance of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could pose an obstructing risk since infants are unable to lift their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects and a reclined position could cause the head to tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always put your baby on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper and be sure to use a fitted sheet that meets federal requirements.
Convenience
Being close to your baby you throughout the night can help build a bond between newborns and their parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your child to change diapers, feedings and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could keep an eye on your baby without needing to leave the bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet you purchase meets the American Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is deemed safe for babies. Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure that will stop the bassinet from tipping over. A breathable mattress should also be included.
Find a model that has a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can help settle them to sleep. Certain models also have tilting options, which can be helpful for newborns with colic or reflux, but should only be used on the supervision of your doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Buy a mattress designed to be a perfect fit for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and could be a risk for SIDS. You should also buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a muslin baby blanket. For easy cleaning, check that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed in the machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a convenient feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
wooden bedside cot for Breastfeeding
If you plan to feed your baby in the night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed can help you get the most benefit from your feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever he wakes up. The cot's sides can drop down to create a bassinet that is shallow for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models tilt to help with reflux.
The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy to spot your baby and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up for a feed. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and help them to fall asleep more quickly after a feed.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be useful in keeping your baby clean. Some models come with gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. The storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers as it is easy and allows them to have a close bond with their baby during sleep. Research has proven that infants who are breastfed and sleep together have better outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. But, it is crucial to be aware of the dangers and procedures involved in sharing a bed with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your infant.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which can cause your baby to become entrapped. You also need to be careful not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you are concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your baby, and explain the risks of SIDS. They can also show you how to get the "sweet sleep that nursing mothers love that includes many safeguards that are similar to breastfeeding.