The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper cot bedside

A bedside sleeper cot (also known as bassinet) fixes to the bed's side so that your baby is close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and that they can also swivel or drop the sides to be closer.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot permits infants to stay close to parents' beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without exposing them to the dangers associated with sharing beds (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts such as director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also provide immediate breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should search for bassinets which are easy to clean and safe to use and have been endorsed by a trusted organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer models that convert an infant bassinet to a bedside sleeper, by dropping one side rail to an adult bed, which allows some areas of the lower part to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which presents an increased risk for entrapment. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for products for toddlers and infants that have been used for more than 180 days. It is expected to lower the risk of injury.

Be aware that a bedside cot used or bassinet should not be used in conjunction with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could create a suffocation risk as many young children aren't able to raise their heads enough to keep them from soft objects. A reclining position can cause the head to tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always place your baby on their back in a bassinet, crib or play yard or bedside sleeper and be sure to use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.

Convenience

Having your baby close to you during the night helps create a bond between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassinets attach securely to the sides of your bed and allow you to easily reach your baby for diaper changes in the middle of the night, feedings and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent and visible through so you can keep an eye on your child without having to get up from bed.

It is crucial that the bassinet you select is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organization and that it meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a broad base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure that prevents the bassinet from tipping over. A breathable mattress should be considered.

Choose models that have an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them fall asleep. Some models also come with tilting options that can be helpful for babies suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used with the supervision of your doctor or health care professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to buy one separately. Make sure you purchase the right mattress to fit the bedside cot mattress bassinet, since second-hand mattresses could be too soft and could pose a risk of SIDS. It is also necessary to invest in a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier ensure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed using the machine. A storage shelf or basket can be a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothes, and muslins. You can find models that have wheels that help you move it around the house.

Breastfeeding Support

If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you get the most out of your evening feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever they wake up. The cot's side can be lowered to create a shallow bed to sleep side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.

The curved sides make it easy to see and raise your baby to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some cots for bedside sleepers include an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and encourage them to go to sleep faster after a meal.

A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration features that can help soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.

Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers because it is practical and helps them to form an intimate bond with their baby while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed and share a sleep space have much better outcomes than infants fed by bottles. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and practices associated with sharing the bed with a baby and to select an appropriate mattress for your baby.

Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which could cause your baby to get trapped. You must also be cautious to not let your bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could result in an opening in which your child can crawl or roll.

If you are concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking to an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can assist you in creating an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby and explain the risks of SIDS. They can also show you how to enjoy the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy and includes a variety of protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.