Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed so baby can be close enough for night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our moms appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also swivel or lower the sides to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their babies at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are designed to adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts such as director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also offer instant nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, encouraging healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets that are easy to clean, safe to use, and have been certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers to respond to the newer products which transform from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping device by dropping a side rail in front of a bed for adults. This allows a portion of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress and poses an increased chance of getting trapped. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision with reference to the current mandatory standards under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which are in use for more than 180days 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 could pose an obstructing risk since young children aren't able to raise their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to slide forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their backs when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use bedside cot newborn fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close during the night. This helps create a bond between newborns and parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the sides of your bed and allow you to easily reach your little one for diaper changes in the middle of the night, feedings and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through so you can monitor your child without having to get up from bed.
It is essential that the bassinet you pick is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organization, and meets all the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure which prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A breathable mattress should be included.
Choose a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can help them sleep. Some models come with a tilt feature that is beneficial for infants suffering from colic or reflux. However this should only be used on the advice of a GP or health professional.
Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you purchase the right mattress to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. It is also necessary to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier ensure that the fabric lining or foam mattress can be washed in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. There are many models that have wheels to make it easier to move around the house.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a cot that sleeps at your bedside will help you maximize your night-time feedings. By securing to your bed, it allows you to reach easily when baby wakes to feed. The cot's side can be lowered to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models tilt to help with reflux.
The curved sides of the cot ensure that it's easy to spot your baby, and they won't slide off of the side when you lift them up for a feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper include an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and help them to go to sleep faster after a meal.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are useful in keeping your baby clean. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration functions which can calm your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having plenty of storage.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers because it is convenient and provides a close bond with their baby during their sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. It is vital that you know the safety dangers and procedures involved in bed-sharing with a newborn baby and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft edges that can trap your baby. You must also be cautious to not let your bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your baby could crawl or roll.
If you're worried about the safety of a baby or mother sleeping close to you, go to a LLL meeting. Talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits of your child. They can assist you in creating a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to get the'sweet sleep that nursing mothers love that includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.