The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as bassinet) fixes to the bed's side so that your baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our mums appreciate that they are simple to reach and can also swivel or drop the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely close to parents in their beds for feeding at night, providing comfort and monitoring, without putting them at risk with sharing beds (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots comply with 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 breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, creating healthy attachments that aid in the development of milestones. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and make sure they've been tested and certified by a trusted agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers in response to the latest products that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping device by lowering a side rail in front of a bed for adults. This allows some portions of lower side to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased chance of entrapment. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates by reference this 2023 revision to the current mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been in use for more than 180 days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This can be an entrapment risk since infants aren't able to raise their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position may cause the head tip to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always place your child on their back when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you at night can help create a bond between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the sides of your mattress and allow you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent and able to be seen through to allow you to monitor your child without stepping up from the bed.
It is essential that the bassinet you select is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing agency and that it meets the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It is recommended to choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress should be included.
Find a model that has a manual rocking feature. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them fall asleep. Some models also have tilt options, which can be helpful for infants suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used under the guidance of your doctor or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with mattresses, while others require that you purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you purchase the right mattress to fit your bedside baby sleeper sleeper bassinet, as second-hand mattresses can be too soft and could pose a risk of SIDS. You should also purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and blanket for your baby. For ease of cleaning ensure that the fabric lining or foam mattress can be washed using a machine. A storage shelf or basket is a great option to store necessities like nappies clothing, muslins, and clothes. There are many models that have wheels that enable it to be moved around the house.
Breastfeeding support
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a travel cot bedside crib with a bedside position can help you maximize your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby bedside crib once they wake up. The side of the cot can be adjusted to create a bed for side-by side sleeping. Certain models can also tilt to provide support for reflux.
The curving sides allow you to see and lift your baby up for a feeding. They won't fall off the side. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and help them to return to sleep quicker after feeding.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models come with gentle vibration or rocking functions which can aid in calming your baby. Having plenty of storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share the bed with their infants. This also lets them develop bonds of friendship during their sleep. Research has proven that infants who breastfeed and share a sleep space have higher outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of sharing an infant's bed and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some beds have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which may cause your baby to become trapped. Also, you must be cautious not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, forming a gap that your baby could crawl or roll into.
If you are concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can explain how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to get the "sweet sleep the nursing mothers get, which includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.