Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) is attached to the bed's side to ensure that your baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own bed. Our moms love that they are easy to reach and can also rotate or lower the sides to be closer.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot allows infants to stay close to parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, providing comfort and monitoring, without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping. They are endorsed by childcare experts such as director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also provide instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should search for bassinets which are easy to clean, safe to use, and have been certified by a trusted organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers to respond to the newer products which convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside rocking crib sleeping product by dropping a side rail in front of a bed for adults. This allows some portions of the lower side to be elevated above the mattress and poses an increased chance of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision by reference to the existing mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products that have been used for longer than 180 days. It is expected reduce the risk of injuries.

Be aware that a bassinet or bedside crib and cot sleeper, should not be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could pose the risk of suffocation since many young babies cannot lift their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position can cause the head to tip forward, obstructing their airway. Always place your child on their backs when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.

Convenience

Having your baby close to you at night can help to strengthen the bond between infants and their parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your little one for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent enough to allow for visibility, so you could keep an eye on your child without having to leave your bed.

It is crucial that the bassinet you select is certified 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 bedside crib base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress should also be included.

Look for a model with an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and will help them sleep. Some models also come with tilting options which can be beneficial for newborns with colic or reflux, but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health visitor.

Some bassinets include a mattress, while others require that you purchase a mattress separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and could cause SIDS. It is also necessary to purchase a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. Check the fabric lining and foam mattress, which can be washed by machine to make it easier to clean. A basket or shelf for storage is a great option to store necessities like nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can also find models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.

Breastfeeding support

If you plan to feed your baby in the night the sleeper travel cot bedside crib that is placed next to your bed will help you get the most out of your feedings. By securing to your bed, it permits you to easily reach across when baby wakes for a feed. The cot's side can be adjusted to create a bed for side-by side sleeping. Certain models tilt to accommodate reflux.

The curved sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby to feed. They won't slide off the side. Some cots with a bedside sleeper have an automatic rocking feature which can calm your baby and help them to return to sleep more quickly after a feed.

A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration features that can help aid in calming your baby. Having plenty of storage space is a bonus for breastfeeding mums.

Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers as it is easy and allows them to have a close bond with their baby during sleep. Research has shown that infants who breastfeed and share a sleep space have better outcomes than infants fed by bottles. It is essential to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of sharing the bed with a baby and to choose a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some sleeping bags for babies have soft edges that could keep your baby in the bag. Be sure to not let the bedside sleeping device slide backwards. This could cause an opening in which your baby could crawl or roll.

If you're worried about the safety of your baby or mother sleeping next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. or talk to a Sleep Leader about your child's sleeping habits. They can explain how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help to understand the dangers of SIDS. They can also teach you how to enjoy the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy, which includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.