Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the bed's side to ensure that your baby is close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own bed. Our mums appreciate that they are simple to reach and can also swivel or drop the sides to be closer.
Safety
The bedside crib and travel cot sleeper lets parents monitor, comfort 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 are in line with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts, such as Dr McKenna director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve milestones in their development. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use. Also, make sure that they've been tested and approved by a reliable agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside travel crib sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from a bassinet into a bedside sleeper, by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, allowing some areas of the lower part to be elevated height above the mattress, presenting an increased risk 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 sturdy toddler or infant products that have been in use for more than 180 days and is expected to decrease the chance of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should never be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could create an obstructing risk since young children aren't able to raise their heads enough to keep them from soft objects and a reclining position can cause the head to slide forward blocking their airway. Always place your child on their back in a bassinet, crib, play yard or bedside sleeper. Be sure to use only an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you during the night helps create a bond between newborns and their parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the side of your bed and allow you to easily reach your baby to change diapers, feedings and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could watch your baby without needing to leave the bed.
It is essential that the bassinet you select is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation and that it meets all requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a bassinet that has a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress is essential also.
Find a model that has a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can aid in settling them down. Certain models have a tilt feature that is beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic. However it should only be used under the advice of a GP or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require that you purchase one separately. Make sure you buy a mattress that is designed to fit the bedside crib with changing table bassinet, as second-hand mattresses could be too soft and pose the risk of SIDS. You'll also need to invest in an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. Check the fabric lining and foam mattress are machine washable to make it easier to clean. A storage shelf or a basket is a great option to store things like nappies, clothes, and muslins. There are also models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
Support for breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot will help you make the most of your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby when they wake up. The side of the cot can be adjusted to create a bed that is shallow for side-by side sleeping. Certain models tilt to accommodate reflux.
The curved sides of the cot means that it's easy for you to see your baby and they won't slide off of the side as you lift them up for a feed. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that will calm your child and encourage them to fall asleep quicker 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 features which can aid in calming your baby. Ample storage space is a an advantage for breastfeeding moms.
It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share their bed with their babies. This also lets them develop bonds of friendship while they sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed who sleep with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is essential to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing a bed with a newborn and to choose a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which can cause your baby to become entrapped. Be sure to not let the bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could cause an opening in which your child can crawl or roll.
If you're worried about the safety of a mother or baby who sleeps next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. Talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits of your child. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also show you how to get the'sweet sleep that nursing mothers love that includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.