Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) fixes to the bed's side to ensure that your baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own bed. Our mothers love that they are easy to reach and can also rotate or drop the sides to be closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their newborns at the night without worrying about the dangers of sharing a bed. This could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots comply with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, encouraging healthy attachment that can assist with milestones in development. Parents should seek out bassinets which are easy to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside cot newborn sleepers due to the latest products that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeper by lowering a side rail adjacent to an adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower part to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased chance of getting trapped. The CPSC's direct 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 products for toddlers and infants that have been in use for more than 180 days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could pose an entrapment risk since infants aren't able to lift their heads high enough to free them from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head tip forward, blocking their airway. Always place your baby on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper. Be certain to use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you during the night helps create a bond between newborns and parents. bedside crib travel cot sleeper bassets attach securely on the side of your mattress and allow you to easily reach your baby for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in the middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to allow for visibility, so you could watch your child without having to get out of bed.
It is important to ensure that the bassinet you purchase meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is safe for babies. You should choose a bassinet with a wide base and a strong attachment mechanism. A mattress that is breathable is important as well.
Look for a model that has the option of manual rocking. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and can help them sleep. Some models also come with tilt options, which can be helpful for babies suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft and be a risk for SIDS. You will also need to buy a breathable fitted bed sheet and the muslin baby blanket. Make sure the fabric lining and foam mattress can be machine washed to make it easier to clean. A storage shelf or basket is a great option to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models with wheels that allow for ease of movement around your house.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you maximize your night-time feedings. By securing to your bed, it allows you to reach easily when your baby wakes up for a feed. The side of the cot can be adjusted to create a bed for sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can tilt for reflux support.
The curving sides of the cot ensure that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up to feed. Some cribs with a bedside crib and travel cot sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and help them to fall asleep faster after a feeding.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle vibration and rocking functions that can help soothe your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having plenty of storage.
It is beneficial for nursing mothers to share their bed with their babies. This also helps them form a close bond while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. It is essential to be aware of the dangers and practices associated with sharing the bed with a baby and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges that could keep your baby in the bag. You should also be careful to ensure that the bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your child can crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety a baby or mother who sleeps next to you, attend an LLL meeting. or talk to a Sleep Leader about the sleeping habits. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help to understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy and includes a variety of protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.