Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also known by the name bassinet) is attached to the side of a bed to ensure that your child can be close enough to feed at night while remaining secure in their own sleeping space. Our mums appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also swivel or lower the sides to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits babies to be within reach of their parents’ beds for nighttime feeding, providing comfort and monitoring, without increasing the risks associated with bed-sharing (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are in line 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 foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. Parents should search for bassinets which are easy to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeping voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert a bassinet into a bedside sleeper by lowering one side rail to an adult bed, which allows some portions of the lower side to be at an elevated height above the mattress, presenting an increased risk for trapping. The CPSC’s direct rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for sturdy toddler or infant products that have been used for longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the risk of injuries.
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 tip forward, blocking their airway. Always place your baby on their backs in a bassinet, crib, play yard or bedside sleeper. Make sure to use only sheets that are fitted to meet the federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you at night can help create a bond between newborns and parents. best bedside cot attach securely to the side of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your little one to change diapers, feedings and comforting. We searched for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to be able to see through so you could monitor your child without needing to leave the bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet is in compliance with the American Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) requirements and is deemed safe for babies. You should look for a broad base, a strong attachment mechanism and sturdy construction which prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A mattress that is breathable should be included.
Look for models that have a manual rocking feature. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them fall asleep. Some models also come with tilt options that can be helpful for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used under the advice of your GP or health visitor.
Some bassinets include a mattress however, others require you to purchase one separately. Find a mattress made to fit the bedside sleeper. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft and be a risk for SIDS. You’ll also have to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. For ease of cleaning, check that the fabric lining or mattress can be washed in the machine. A storage shelf or a basket is a great option to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are also models with wheels that allow for ease of movement around your house.
Breastfeeding Support
If you choose to feed your baby at night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed will help you get the most benefit from your feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever he wakes up. The side of the cot can be raised to create a shallow bed to sleep side-by-side. Certain models tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides make it easy to see and raise your baby up for a feeding. They won’t roll off the side. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature which can help your child relax and encourage them to go back to sleep faster after a feeding.
A soft fabric, as well as machine washable and removable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking and vibration functions which can help soothe your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is extremely popular with breastfeeding mothers as it is practical and helps them to form an intimate bond with their baby while they sleep. Research has proven that infants who breastfeed and have a shared space to sleep have better outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. But, it is crucial to be aware of the hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and select a mattress that is safe for your infant.
Some beds have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which may cause your baby to become entrapped. You should also be careful to not let your mattress slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your child can crawl or roll.
If you are concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper, consider attending an LLL meeting or talking with a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help understand the risks of SIDS. They will also teach you about the’sweet sleep’ of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.
