Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) fixes to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. bedside co sleeper appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also pivot or lower the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their babies at night without having to worry about the dangers of bed-sharing. This can result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr McKenna, director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. Parents should search for bassinets which are easy to clean, safe to use, and have been endorsed by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers due to the newer models that transform from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping product by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows certain areas of the lower part to be elevated above the mattress and presents an increased chance of entrapment. The CPSC's direct 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 and is expected to reduce the chance of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could pose a risk of suffocation since infants aren't able to lift their heads up enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position can cause the head tip to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always place your child on their back when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Being close to your baby you throughout the night can help build a bond between newborns and parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your child for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, as well as comforting. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent and easy to see through to allow you to keep an eye on your child without having to get up from the bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet you purchase meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is safe for babies. It is recommended to choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a strong attachment mechanism. A breathable mattress is essential as well.
Look for a model that has an option for manual rocking. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them fall asleep. Certain models have a tilt feature that is beneficial for newborns who suffer from colic or reflux. However, this should only be used under the advice of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress however, others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you buy one that is made to fit in your bedside bassinet, since second-hand mattresses could be too soft and could pose a risk of SIDS. Also, you will need to buy a breathable fitted bed sheet and muslin baby blanket. Make sure the fabric lining and foam mattress are machine washable for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are also models with wheels for ease of movement around your house.
Support for breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position can help you make the most of your feedings at night. By securing to your bed, it allows you to reach over easily when your baby wakes up for a feed. The cot's sides can drop down to create a bassinet that is shallow for a secure side-by-side sleep. Some models can also tilt for reflux support.
The curving sides make it easy to see and lift your baby to feed. They won't slide off the side. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature which can help your child relax and encourage them to fall back asleep faster after eating.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a soft fabric and removable bedding that can be machine-washed are a great option. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration functions which can soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
Bed-sharing is a popular choice for breastfeeding mothers because it is convenient and provides the mother with a close relationship with her baby while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. It is essential to be aware of the dangers and practices that come with sharing an infant's bed and to select a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which may cause your baby to get trapped. You must also be cautious to ensure that the mattress slide backwards. This could result in an opening through which your baby can crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of your mother or baby who sleeps next to you, consider attending a LLL meeting. Or talk with a Sleep Leader about your child's sleeping habits. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy, which includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.