The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

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A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our mums love how they are simple to reach, and they can also swivel the sides or drop them to get closer.

Safety

The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their babies at the night without worrying about the dangers of sharing a bed. This can result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts like director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also help encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve developmental milestones. Parents should look for bassinets that are simple 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 travel cot sleepers to respond to the newer products which 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 part to be elevated above the mattress and presents an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision by reference to the existing mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products which are in use for more than 180days and is expected to lower the chance of injury.

Remember that a bedside or bassinet should not be used in conjunction with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could create the risk of suffocation since many infants are unable to lift their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position can cause the head to tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard, or a bedside cot bed sleeper. Make sure to use sheets that are fitted to meet federal requirements.

Convenience

It is important to keep your baby close during the night. This can help create an emotional bond between parents and newborns. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the side of your bed and allow you to easily reach your child for middle-of-the-night diaper changes, feedings and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through to allow you to keep an eye on your child without stepping up from bed.

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

Look for a model that has the option of manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and can help them sleep. Some models also have a tilt option that can be helpful for babies suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health care professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to buy one separately. Find a mattress made to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft, and may be a risk for SIDS. You should also purchase a comfortable fitted sheet for your bed and a muslin baby blanket. To make cleaning easier make sure that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed using a machine. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are models with wheels that help you move it around the home.

Breastfeeding Support

If you choose to feed your baby in the night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed can aid you in getting the most out of your feedings. By attaching to your bed, it permits you to reach easily when your baby is awake to feed. The cot's side can lower to create a bassinet that is shallow for safe side-by-side sleeping. Some models also tilt to help with reflux.

The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy 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 sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that will help your child relax and encourage them to fall back asleep faster after a feeding.

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

Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers due to it being convenient and provides a close bond with their baby while they sleep. Research has proven that infants who are breastfed and have a shared space to sleep have much better outcomes than infants fed by bottles. However, it is important that you know the safety risks and practices involved in sharing a crib with a newborn and select a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which may cause your baby to get trapped. Also, you must be careful not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.

If you're concerned about the safety a baby bedside cot or mother sleeping next to you, attend an LLL meeting. Talk to a Sleep Leader about the sleeping habits. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help understand the risks of SIDS. They can also educate you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.