The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed so baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and that they can also pivot or lower the sides to get closer.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot lets newborns to be safely within reach of parents in their beds for feeding at night, as well as monitoring and comfort, without increasing the risks associated with sharing beds (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping. They are recommended by childcare experts such as director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also provide immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, creating healthy attachments that aid in the development of milestones. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use. make sure that they've been tested and certified by a reliable agency such as JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer models that convert the bassinet into the small bedside cot sleeper by lowering one side rail next to an adult bed, allowing some portions of the lower part to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which poses an increased risk for trapping. The CPSC's direct rule incorporates this 2023 revision to the current mandatory standard under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for sturdy toddler or infant products that have been in use for more than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injury.

Be aware that a bassinet or bedside rocking crib sleeper is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This could pose a suffocation hazard as young babies are unable to raise their heads high enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position may result in the head tipping to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always put your baby on their backs in a bassinet, crib or play yard, or a bedside sleeper. Make sure to use a fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.

Convenience

It is important to keep your baby close to you during the night. This can help create bonds between the parents and their infants. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached to the sides of your mattress which allows you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to allow for visibility, so you could monitor your baby without having to leave your bed.

It is important to ensure that the bassinet is in compliance with the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is deemed safe for infants. Make sure you choose a large base, a strong attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that prevents the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress is essential also.

Choose a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can aid in settling them down. Certain models have a tilt feature that can be useful for infants suffering from colic or reflux. However it should only be used on the advice of a GP or health professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you purchase one that is made to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet, as second-hand mattresses can be too soft and could pose the risk of SIDS. Also, you will need to buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a blanket for your baby. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress, which can be washed by machine for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or basket is a convenient feature to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are many models that have wheels to help you move it around the house.

Support for Breastfeeding

If you plan to feed your baby in the night sleeping in a cot beside your bed will aid you in getting the most from your feedings. By attaching to your bed, it allows you to reach easily when your baby wakes up for a feed. The cot's side can be adjusted to create a bed that is shallow for sleeping side-by-side. Some models also tilt to help with reflux.

The curved sides of the cot means that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't fall off the side as you lift them up for a feed. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking bedside crib function which can soothe your baby and encourage them to return to sleep quicker after feeding.

If you want to keep your baby clean, a cosy bedding and fabric which can be washed by a machine can be very beneficial. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration features which can soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having plenty of storage.

Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers due to it being convenient and provides the mother with a close relationship with her baby during sleep. Research has revealed that babies who are breastfed and have a shared space to sleep have much better outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. It is essential to be aware of the risks and practices that come with sharing a bed with a newborn and to choose a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some sleeping bags for babies have soft surfaces on the edges that can keep your baby in the bag. You should also be careful to not let your bedside device slide backwards. This could result in a gap into which your baby can crawl or roll.

If you're concerned about the safety of your baby or mother sleeping next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. Or talk with a Sleep Leader about the sleeping habits. They can explain how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help understand the risks of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to enjoy the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy that includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.