The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) fixes to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our moms love how they are easy to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to get closer.

Safety

The bedside sleeper allows parents to supervise, comfort and feed their newborns at night without having to worry about the dangers of sharing a bed. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines on co sleeper bedside cot-sleeping. They are endorsed by childcare experts, such as the director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve milestones in their development. Parents should seek out bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and have been certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers in response to the newer models that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress and poses an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision based on the current mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products that are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.

Keep in mind that a bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This could pose the risk of suffocation since many young babies cannot lift their heads sufficiently to remove them from soft objects. A reclined position could cause the head to slide forward, obstructing their airway. Always place your child on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard, or a bedside sleeper. Be certain to use sheets that are fitted to meet the federal requirements.

Convenience

Being close to your baby you at night can help build a bond between newborns and their parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached to the side of your mattress which allows you to reach your baby easily to change diapers, feeds and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent and easy to see through so you can monitor your child without stepping up from the bed.

It is essential that the bassinet you select is deemed safe for babies by an independent testing agency and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose a bassinet with a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A mattress that is breathable is important as well.

Choose the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them sleep. Some models also come with a tilt option that can be helpful for infants suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used on the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.

Some bassinets include mattresses, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you purchase one that is made to fit in your bedside baby sleeper bassinet, as second-hand mattresses may be too soft and pose the risk of SIDS. You will also need to buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a the muslin baby blanket. For easy cleaning ensure that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed in the machine. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothing and muslins. You can also find models that have wheels for mobility around the house.

Breastfeeding support

If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot will help you get the most out of your feedings at night. By attaching to your bed, it permits you to reach over easily when your baby wakes up for a feed. The side of the cot can be raised to create a bed that is shallow for sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.

The curved sides make it easy to see and raise your baby up for a feeding. They won't fall off the side. Some cribs with a bedside cot used sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and help them to go back to sleep quicker after a meal.

When it comes to keeping baby clean, a soft bedding and fabric that can be machine-washed are helpful. Some models have gentle rocking and vibration features that can help soothe your baby into sleep. The storage space is another benefit for breastfeeding mothers.

Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers as it is practical and helps them to form the mother with a close relationship with her baby while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a bed with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing the bed with a baby and to choose a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft edges, which could trap your baby. Also, be careful not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby could crawl or roll into.

If you're worried about the safety of a baby or mother who sleeps next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. Or talk with a Sleep Leader about the sleeping habits of your child. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you to understand the dangers of SIDS. They will also teach you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.