The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

bedside crib and travel cot sleeper cot (try Telegra)

A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the bed's side so baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our mothers appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also swivel or lower the sides to make them more accessible.

Safety

The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their newborns at night without worrying about the dangers of bed-sharing. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts like director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also help promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve developmental milestones. It's important that parents look for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and make sure they've been tested and certified by a reputable agency like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer models that convert the bassinet into a bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, which allows certain areas of the lower part to be elevated level above the mattress, presenting an increased risk for trapping. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision by reference to the mandatory standards in place under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products that have been used for longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injury.

Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could create a suffocation risk as many young children aren't able to raise their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects. A reclined position can cause the head to tip forward, obstructing their airway. Always place your child on their back when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.

Convenience

It is crucial to keep your baby close throughout the night. This can help create an emotional bond between the parents and their infants. Bedside sleeper bassets are secured to the sides of your mattress and allow you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in the middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent and easy to see through, allowing you to monitor your child without stepping up from bed.

It is important to ensure that the bassinet is in compliance with the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is deemed safe for babies. You should look for an infant bassinet that has a large base and a strong attachment mechanism. A breathable mattress is essential also.

Choose a model with a manual rocking function that's gentle on your baby and can help them sleep. Some models also come with a tilt option which can be beneficial for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used on the advice of your GP or health professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to purchase one separately. Find a mattress made to be a perfect fit for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and may be a risk for SIDS. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and muslin baby blanket. For easy cleaning, check that the fabric lining or foam mattress can be washed using the machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a great option to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. You can also find models with wheels for ease of movement around your house.

Support for Breastfeeding

If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position will help you make the most of your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby whenever he wakes up. The travel cot bedside's side can be lowered to create a shallow bassinet for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models tilt to support reflux.

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

A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features which can aid in calming your baby. Having plenty of storage space is a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.

Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers due to it being easy and allows them to have an intimate bond with their baby during sleep. Research has revealed that babies who are breastfed and have a shared space to sleep have higher outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of sharing an infant's bed and to choose a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges, which could trap your baby. Be sure to ensure that the bedside device slide backwards. This could cause an opening through which your baby can crawl or roll.

If you are concerned about the safety of a bedside cot co sleeper sleeper 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 babies. They can help you create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to get the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy that includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.