Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also called a bassinet) is connected to the bed's side to ensure that your child can be close enough to eat at night while still being safe in their own sleeping space. Our moms love how they are easy to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to reach closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their newborns at night without worrying about the dangers of bed-sharing. This could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts like director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
These bassinets also help to foster 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 sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer models that convert the bassinet into a bedside sleeper, by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, allowing some areas of the lower portion to be elevated height above the mattress, which presents an increased risk for entrapment. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for sturdy toddler or infant products that have been used for more than 180 days. It is expected to reduce the chance of injuries.
It is important to remember that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should never be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could pose a suffocation risk as many infants are unable to lift their heads sufficiently to remove them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to slide forward blocking their airway. Always place your child on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard, or a bedside sleeper and be sure to use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close during the night. This helps create an emotional bond between the parents and their infants. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your child to change diapers feedings, as well as comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through so you can monitor your child without stepping up from bed.
It's important that the bassinet you choose is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress is essential, too.
Look for a model that has an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Some models also come with tilt options that can be helpful for newborns with colic or reflux, but should only be used on the advice of your GP or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require that you purchase one separately. Buy a mattress designed to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and could pose a SIDS risk. You should also purchase 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 using the machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a useful feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are many models with wheels that help you move it around the home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you choose to feed your baby at night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed will assist you in getting the most out of your feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby when you wake up. The cot's side can be adjusted to create a bed for side-by side sleeping. Some models also tilt to help with reflux.
The curving 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 lift them up for a feed. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature that can help your child relax and encourage them to fall back asleep faster after eating.
When it comes to keeping baby clean, a cosy bedding and a removable material which can be washed by a machine can be very beneficial. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration features which can help soothe your baby into sleep. Having plenty of storage space is a bonus for breastfeeding mums.
It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share a bed with their babies. This also allows them to form bonds of friendship as they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who sleep with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is vital that you know the safety risks and practices involved in sharing a crib with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your infant.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which may cause your baby to get trapped. Also, you must be cautious not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby could crawl or roll into.
If you're concerned about the safety a baby or mother sleeping close to you, go to a LLL meeting. Talk to a Sleep Leader about the sleeping habits. They can explain how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. bedside cots for newborns will also teach you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.