The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) fixes to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own sleeping area. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and that they can also pivot or drop the sides to make them more accessible.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot allows infants to stay close to parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, comforting and monitoring without exposing them to the dangers associated with bed-sharing (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping, and are recommended by childcare experts such as Dr McKenna director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.

They also promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach developmental milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and are certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for twin bedside cot sleepers to respond to the newer models that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside crib co sleeper sleeping product by the side rails being lower next to a adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased risk of being entangled. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates the 2023 revision by reference to the current mandatory standards under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.

Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could pose a suffocation risk as many young babies cannot lift their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to tilt forward, obstructing their airway. Always place your child on their backs in a bassinet, crib, play yard or bedside sleeper. Be sure to use sheets that are fitted to meet the federal requirements.

Convenience

It is essential to keep your baby close during the night. This helps create bonds between parents and newborns. bedside cosleeper sleeper bassets are secured to the side of your mattress and allow you to reach your baby easily to change diapers, feeds and comforting in middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and able to be seen through so you can 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) specifications and is certified safe for infants. You should look for a broad base, a sturdy attachment mechanism and sturdy construction which prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A mattress that is breathable is important as well.

Find a model that has the option of manual rocking. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Certain models also have tilting options which can be beneficial for infants suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used under the supervision of your doctor or health professional.

Some bassinets include mattresses, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you buy one that is made to fit in your bedside bassinet, since second-hand mattresses could be too soft and carry the risk of SIDS. You should also purchase a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a the muslin baby blanket. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress can be machine washed to make it easier to clean. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. There are also models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.

Breastfeeding support

If you plan to feed your infant at night sleeping in a cot beside your bed will aid you in getting the most from your feedings. By attaching to your bed, it allows you to easily reach across when baby wakes for a feed. The cot's side can lower to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt for reflux support.

The curving sides of the cot means that it's easy for you to see your baby and they won't fall off the side as you lift them up for a feed. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature which can calm your child and encourage them to go back to sleep faster after eating.

A soft fabric, as well as machine washable and removable bedding are useful in keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features which can soothe your baby to sleep. The 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 proven that babies who are breastfed who share a bed with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. But, it is crucial that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with sharing a crib with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your baby.

Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which could cause your baby to become entrapped. You also need to be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby could crawl into or roll into.

If you're concerned about the safety of a baby or mother sleeping close to you, go to an LLL meeting. Talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They will also teach you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.