A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) can be attached to the bed's side so that your baby can be close enough for night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and can also rotate or lower the sides to be closer.
Safety
A wooden bedside cot sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely within reach of their parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, 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 for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts such as director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. Parents should search for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and have been endorsed by a reputable organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from the bassinet into a bedside sleeper by lowering one side rail to an adult bed, which allows certain areas of the lower side to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which presents an increased risk for entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision with reference to the current mandatory standards under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products that have been in use longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injury.
Keep in mind that a bedside or bassinet is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This could create the risk of suffocation since many young babies cannot lift their heads enough to remove them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to tip forward blocking their airway. Always put your child on their backs when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
Being close to your baby you throughout the night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. small bedside cot sleeper bassets attach securely to the side of your mattress, allowing 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 translucent and visible through so you can keep an eye on your child without having to get up from the bed.
It is essential that the bassinet you pick is certified as safe for babies 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 should be considered.
Choose a model with an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and can aid in settling them down. Certain models also have a tilt option which can be beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Find a mattress made to be suitable for the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and may pose a SIDS risk. It is also necessary to invest in an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin 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 a basket is a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothing and muslins. You can find models with wheels that help you move it around the house.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed, a cot that sleeps at your bedside cot sale can help you to maximize your feedings at night. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby when he wakes up. The side of the cot can be lowered to create a shallow bed to sleep side-by-side. Certain models tilt to help with reflux.
The curving sides allow you to see and lift your baby up for a feeding. They won't slide off the side. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and encourage them to fall asleep quicker after a meal.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a soft fabric and removable bedding that can be washed in the machine can be very beneficial. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration features that can ease your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers due to it being practical and helps them to form an intimate bond with their baby while they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who share a bed with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and practices associated with sharing an infant's bed and to select a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which could cause your baby to become entrapped. Be sure to not let your mattress slide backwards. This could create a gap into 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 learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can explain how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help you to understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy and includes a variety of protective factors similar to breastfeeding.