The 10 Most Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
Bedside Sleeper travel cot bedside crib
A bedside sleeper cot [listen to this podcast] (also known as bassinet) can be attached to the bed's side so that your baby is close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own space to sleep. Our mums love how they are simple to reach, and they can also rotate the sides or lower them to be closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to supervise, comfort and feed their infants at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This can result in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are made to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts, such as the director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
These bassinets also help to promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This can help them achieve milestones in their development. Parents should seek out bassinets that are simple to clean, safe to use, and have been endorsed by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers in response to the newer products which convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside crib travel sleeper by the side rails being lower adjacent to an adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower part to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased risk of being entangled. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision based on the mandatory standards in place in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products that have been used for longer than 180 days. It is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.
It is important to remember that a bassinet or 4-in-1 bedside crib sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could pose a suffocation hazard as infants aren't able to lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position can cause the head tip to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
Being close to your baby you throughout the night can help build a bond between newborns and their parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached to the side of your mattress, allowing you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to allow for visibility, so you could monitor your child without needing to leave the bed.
It's important that the bassinet you pick is deemed safe for infants by an independent testing organisation and that it meets the 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 tipping over. A breathable mattress should be included.
Find a model that has the option of manual rocking. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them fall asleep. Some models also have tilting options which can be beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic but should only be used under the advice of your GP or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Buy a mattress designed to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and may pose a SIDS risk. You'll also need to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. Check the fabric lining and foam mattress are machine washable to make it easier to clean. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. You can find models that have wheels that enable it to be moved around the home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you plan to feed your baby in the night, a sleeper cot by your bed will help you get the most benefit from your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's side can be lowered to create a bed that is shallow to sleep side-by-side. Some models also tilt to help with reflux.
The curved sides make it easy to see and lift your baby up for a feeding. They won't roll off the side. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature which can help your child relax and encourage them to fall asleep quicker after a meal.
When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a soft bedding and fabric that can be washed in the machine can be very beneficial. Some models feature gentle rocking and vibration features which can help soothe your baby into sleep. Having plenty of storage space is also a an advantage for breastfeeding moms.
It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share a bed with their babies. This lets them develop an intimate bond during their sleep. Research has proven that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. But, it is crucial that you know the safety dangers and procedures involved in sharing a crib with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your infant.
Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which can cause your baby to become trapped. You should also be careful to not let the bedside device slide backwards. This could create a gap into which your baby can crawl or roll.
If you are concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can help you create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy that includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.