Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also called a bassinet) is connected to the side of a bed, so that your baby can be close enough to eat at night, while remaining safe in their own bed. Our mums love how they are simple to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, soothe and feed their newborns at night without having to worry about the dangers of sharing a bed. This could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts like Dr McKenna, director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. Parents should search for bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers due to the latest products that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeper by the side rails being lower next to a adult bed. This allows certain areas of lower side to be elevated over the mattress and presents an increased chance of being entangled. The CPSC's direct rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision of the mandatory standard set under 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. It is expected to lower the chance of injury.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This can be a risk of suffocation since young babies are unable to raise their heads high enough to free them from soft objects. A reclining position may cause the head to tip to move forward, thereby blocking 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
Being close to your baby you during the night helps build a bond between newborns and parents. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the side of your bed and allow you to easily reach your child for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent and easy to see through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without stepping up from bed.
It's important that the bassinet you choose is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing agency and that it meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for an infant bassinet that has a large base and a strong attachment system. A comfortable mattress is crucial also.
Look for a model with an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and can help settle them to sleep. Some models also come with tilting options which can be beneficial for babies suffering from colic or reflux, but should only be used under the advice of your GP or health care professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress and some require you to purchase one separately. Be sure to purchase the right mattress to fit your bedside sleeper bassinet. Second-hand mattresses could be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. Also, you will need to buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a the muslin baby blanket. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress can be machine washed for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or basket is a convenient feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothes and muslins. There are many models that have wheels that make it easier to move around the home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to nurse your infant at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will aid you in getting the most out of your feedings. By securing it to your bed, it allows you to reach over easily when your baby wakes up for a feed. The cot's sides can be lowered to create a bassinet that is shallow for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides allow you to see and lift your baby up for a feeding. They won't fall off the side. Some cots for bedside sleepers include an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and help them to return to sleep faster after a meal.
A cozy fabric and machine washable and removable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features that can help calm your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This also helps them form an intimate bond while they sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed and share a sleep space have better outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of sharing an infant's bed and to choose the right mattress for your baby.
bedside cot 6 months plus have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which can cause your baby to get trapped. You also need to be cautious not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you're concerned about the safety a baby or mother sleeping close to you, go to an LLL meeting. or talk to a Sleep Leader about your child's sleeping habits of your child. 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 show you how to enjoy the'sweet sleep that nursing mothers love, which includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.