The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the bed's side so 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 swivel the sides or lower them to be closer.

Safety

The bedside sleeper lets parents supervise, comfort and feed their babies at night without having to worry about the risks of sharing a bed. This can result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are in line with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts like Dr McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.

They also foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This will help them reach their developmental milestones. Parents should look for bassinets which are easy to clean and safe to use and have been endorsed by a respected organization such as JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer models that convert a bassinet into the bedside cot mattress sleeper by dropping one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, which allows certain areas of the lower part to be at an elevated level above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. CPSC's direct final 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 durable infant or toddler products that have been used for more than 180 days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.

It is important to remember that a bassinet or bedside cot wooden sleeper, should never be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This can pose an obstructing risk since young children aren't able to raise their heads high enough to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to tilt forward blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper. Make sure to use a fitted sheet that meets federal requirements.

Convenience

Being close to your baby you throughout the night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets are secured on the side of your mattress and allow you to reach your baby easily for feedings, diaper changes, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could watch your baby without needing to leave the bed.

It is important to ensure that the bassinet is in compliance with the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is certified safe for infants. Make sure you choose a large base, a sturdy attachment mechanism and sturdy construction which prevents the bassinet from tipping over. A breathable mattress should be included.

Find a model that has a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can aid in settling them down. Some models have tilt functions which can be beneficial for newborns who suffer from colic or reflux. However, this should only be used on the advice of your doctor or health professional.

Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you purchase the right mattress to fit the bedside bassinet, as second-hand mattresses could be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. You should also purchase a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a blanket for your baby. Make sure the fabric lining and foam mattress can be machine washed for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or a basket can be a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothes, and muslins. There are many models that have wheels that make it easier to move around the home.

Support for Breastfeeding

If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you make the most of your evening feedings. By attaching to your bed, it allows you to reach over easily when your baby is awake for a feed. The cot's side can then lower to create a bassinet that is shallow to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models tilt to support reflux.

The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy to see your baby and they won't fall off the side as you lift them up for feeding. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and help them to fall asleep faster after a feeding.

When it comes to keeping baby clean, a cozy bedding and a removable material that can be machine-washed are helpful. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration functions that can help aid in calming your baby. Having plenty of storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.

It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share a bed with their babies. This allows them to form 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 vital to be aware of the hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and select a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some sleeping bags for babies have soft edges that can trap your baby bedside sleeper. Be sure to not let the mattress slide backwards. This could result in an opening through which your baby can crawl or roll.

If you're worried about the safety of your baby or mother who sleeps next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. or talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits of your child. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help recognize the risks of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.