The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

bedside sleeper cot (click here for more info)

A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so baby is close enough to be able to enjoy nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our moms appreciate that they are simple to reach and can also rotate or drop the sides to make them more accessible.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot lets babies to be close to parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without exposing them to the dangers associated with sharing beds (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots adhere to 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 immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, encouraging healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. Parents should search 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 sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert a bassinet into a bedside sleeper, by dropping one side rail to an adult bed, and allowing certain areas of the lower portion to be elevated level above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision by reference to the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.

Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This can pose a suffocation risk as many infants are unable to lift their heads enough to pull them away from soft objects and a reclined position could cause the head to slide forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs while using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.

Convenience

It is important to keep your baby close during the night. This helps create bonds between parents and newborns. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, as well as comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent and easy to see through so you can keep an eye on your child without having to get up from bed.

It is essential to ensure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is safe for babies. Look for a wide base, a sturdy attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A mattress that is breathable should be considered.

Find a model that has a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can help settle them to sleep. Some models also have tilt options, which can be helpful for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health professional.

Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require that you purchase one separately. Make sure you buy the right mattress to fit in your bedside cosleeper bassinet, since second-hand mattresses could be too soft and could pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also need to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. For easy cleaning ensure that the lining of the fabric or mattress can be washed in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models with wheels for ease of movement around your house.

Breastfeeding Support

If you decide to nurse your baby in the night sleeping in a cot beside your bed can aid you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. By securing to your bed, it permits you to easily reach across when baby wakes for a feed. The travel cot bedside crib's side can drop down to create a shallow bassinet for safe side-by-side sleeping. Certain models tilt to help with reflux.

The curving sides of the cot ensure that it's easy to spot your baby, and they won't slide off of the side when you pick them up for feeding. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking function that can help calm your baby and help them to go to sleep quicker after feeding.

A cozy fabric and machine washable and removable bedding are useful in keeping your baby clean. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration features that can help aid in calming your baby. The storage space is also a an advantage for breastfeeding moms.

Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers because it is easy and allows them to have the mother with a close relationship with her baby during sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a sleeping space with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is vital that you know the safety risks and practices involved in bed-sharing with a newborn baby and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.

Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft surfaces on the edges that could trap your baby. Also, you must be aware not to let the bedside rocking crib sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your baby could crawl into or roll into.

If you're worried about the safety a mother or baby who sleeps close to you, go to a LLL meeting. Talk to a Sleep Leader about the sleeping habits of your child. They can assist you in creating an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to get the "sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy, which includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.