Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also known by the name bassinet) is connected to the side of a bed to ensure that your child can be close enough to feed at night while still being safe in their own bed. Our moms love that they are easy to reach and can also swivel or lower the sides to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, comfort and feed their babies at the night without worrying about the risks 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 such as Dr McKenna director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should look for bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and have been certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers due to the newer models that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeping device by dropping a side rail in front of a bed for adults. This allows certain areas of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased chance of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision by reference to the current mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days. It is expected reduce the chance of injury.
Be aware that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should not be used in conjunction with pillows, blankets or other bedding. large bedside cot could create an obstructing risk since young children aren't able to raise their heads high enough to pull them away from soft objects and a reclined position can cause the head to tilt forward, obstructing their airway. Always place travel bedside crib on their back in a bassinet, crib or play yard, or a bedside sleeper and be sure to use only an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you throughout the night can help create a bond between newborns and their parents. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the side of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your child for diaper changes in the middle of the night, feedings and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent and visible through, allowing you to monitor your child without having to get up from the bed.
It is crucial that the bassinet you select is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing organization and that it meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose a bassinet with a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A mattress that is breathable is important also.
Find a model that has an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and will aid in settling them down. Some models also come with tilt options which can be beneficial for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used under the supervision of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Buy a mattress designed to fit the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft and pose a SIDS risk. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a the muslin baby blanket. For easy cleaning, check that the lining of the 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. There are also models that have wheels for mobility around the house.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position can help you to maximize your feedings at night. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby when they wake up. The cot's side can then be lowered to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby and they won't fall off the side when you pick them up for feeding. Some cots with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and encourage them to go to sleep more quickly after a feed.
When it comes to keeping baby clean, a soft bedding and a removable material which can be washed by a machine are a great option. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration features that can help calm your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share a bed with their babies. This helps them form bonds of friendship while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing the bed with a baby and to choose a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which could cause your baby to become entrapped. Also, be aware not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, creating an opening that your baby could crawl into or roll into.
If you're concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed you should consider attending an LLL meeting or talking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They can also show you how to enjoy the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy that includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.