The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside baby sleeper sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed so that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy feeding at night, but is safe in their own space to sleep. Our mothers love that they are easy to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to reach closer.

Safety

A 4-in-1 bedside crib sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely within reach of parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without putting them at risk with sharing beds (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.

They also provide instant breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, creating healthy attachments that assist with milestones in development. Parents should look for bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer products that convert from the bassinet into the bedside sleeper by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, which allows some portions of the lower side to be at an elevated level above the mattress, presenting an increased risk for trapping. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard set under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for products for toddlers and infants that have been used for longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the risk of injury.

Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could create the risk of suffocation since many infants are unable to lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects and a reclined position could cause the head to tilt forward blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs while using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.

Convenience

A baby who is close to you during the night helps build a bond between newborns and parents. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the side of your bed and let you easily reach your little one for diaper changes in the middle of the night, feedings and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to be able to see through so you could keep an eye on your baby without having to get out of bed.

It's important that the bassinet you select is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing agency and that it meets all requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a wide base, a sturdy attachment mechanism, and a solid construction that will stop the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress is essential as well.

Look for 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 helpful for infants suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health visitor.

Some bassinets come with a mattress and some require you to purchase a mattress separately. Be sure to purchase a mattress that is designed to fit in your bedside cot newborn bassinet, since second-hand mattresses can be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also need to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. To make cleaning easier, check that the fabric lining or foam mattress can be washed in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a great option to store essentials such as nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. There are also models that have wheels for ease of movement around your house.

Support for breastfeeding

If you decide to nurse your baby in the night, a sleeper cot by your bed can assist you in getting the most from your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby once they wake up. The cot's side can be lowered to create a bed for sleeping side-by-side. Certain models tilt to accommodate reflux.

The curving sides of the cot ensure that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't fall off the side when you lift them up to feed. Some cots for bedside cot 6 months plus sleepers include an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and help them to fall asleep more quickly after a feed.

If you want to keep your baby clean, a cosy bedding and fabric that can be washed in the machine are helpful. Some models feature gentle vibration and rocking functions which can help soothe your baby to sleep. The storage space is a bonus for breastfeeding mums.

It is convenient for nursing mothers to share the bed with their infants. This helps them form a close bond while they sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed who sleep with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the risks and practices that come with sharing a bed with a newborn and to select the right mattress for your baby.

Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges that could keep your baby in the bag. Also, be careful not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your child could crawl or roll into.

If you're worried about the safety of a baby or mother sleeping next to you, consider attending a LLL meeting. Or talk with a Sleep Leader about your child's sleeping habits. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They will also teach you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.