The 10 Most Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) fixes to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby can be close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own bed. Our moms appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also rotate or drop the sides to be closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot bedside permits infants to stay 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 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 Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
These bassinets also help to encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This will help them reach their developmental milestones. It's important that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and ensure they have been tested and approved by a reliable agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers in response to the latest products that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping product by the side rails being lower next to a adult bed. This allows some portions of lower side to be elevated above the mattress and presents an increased risk of being entangled. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision based on the current mandatory standards under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products which have been in use longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could create an obstructing risk since young babies cannot lift their heads high enough to pull them away from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position could cause the head to tip forward blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs when using a crib, bassinet or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you during the night helps to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the sides of your bed and allow you to easily reach your baby to change diapers, feedings and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and easy to see through, allowing you to keep an eye on 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 organisation and that it meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that will stop the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress is essential as well.
Look for the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them sleep. Certain models have tilt features which can be beneficial for infants suffering from colic or reflux. However this should only be used under the advice of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Be sure to purchase a mattress that is designed to fit your small bedside cot sleeper bassinet, as second-hand mattresses can be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. You will also need to buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a muslin baby blanket. For ease of cleaning, check that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed in a machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a great option to store things like nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can also find models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you plan to feed your baby at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will help you get the most out of your feedings. By securing to your bed, it allows you to reach easily when your baby wakes up to feed. The side of the cot can be adjusted to create a bed for side-by side sleeping. Some models also tilt to accommodate reflux.
The curving sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby up for a feeding. They won't slide off the side. Some bedside crib and cot sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature that will help your child relax and encourage them to fall back asleep faster after a feeding.
A soft fabric, as well as machine washable and removable bedding are useful in keeping your baby clean. Some models feature gentle rocking and vibration functions that can ease your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having plenty of storage.
It is convenient for nursing mothers to share the bed with their infants. This allows them to form bonds of friendship while they sleep. Research has revealed that infants who breastfeed and have a shared space to sleep have better outcomes than infants fed by bottles. It is vital to be aware of the hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and choose a safe mattress for your baby.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which can cause your baby to become trapped. You should also be careful to not let your mattress slide backwards. This could result in a gap into which your baby could crawl or roll.
If you're concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking with a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep that nursing mothers love, which includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.