Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so baby is close enough to be able to enjoy feeding at night, but is safe in their own bed. rocking bedside crib that they are easy to reach and can also rotate or lower the sides to be closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits babies to be close to parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, providing comfort 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 provide instant nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, encouraging healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should look for bassinets that are easy 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 bedside sleepers in response to the newer products which convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeping product by the side rails being lower in front of a bed for adults. This allows certain areas of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased chance of being entangled. The CPSC's direct rule incorporates 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 reduce the chance of injury.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should never be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could pose a risk of suffocation since babies are unable to lift their heads high enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head tip to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always put your child on their backs when using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close to you during the night. This can help create an emotional 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 middle-of-the-night diaper changes feedings, and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could keep an eye on your baby without having to get out of bed.
It is important to ensure that the bassinet meets the American Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is certified safe for infants. Make sure you choose a large base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a solid construction that prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A breathable mattress is essential also.
Find the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and can help them sleep. Some models come with tilt features which can be beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic. However this should only be used under the advice of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress however, others require you to purchase one separately. Find wooden bedside cot made to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and may cause SIDS. You'll also need to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For ease of cleaning, check that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed in a machine. A storage shelf or basket can be a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can find models with wheels to make it easier to move around the house.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you maximize your evening feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever they wake up. The side of the cot can be lowered to create a bed that is shallow to sleep side-by-side. Certain models tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby up for a feeding. They won't roll off the side. Some cribs with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature which can calm your child and encourage them to fall asleep faster after eating.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking and vibration features which can help soothe your baby to sleep. Having plenty of storage space is another an advantage for breastfeeding moms.
It is a good idea for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This allows them to form a close bond as they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed and share a sleep space have much better outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. However, bedside rocking crib is important that you know the safety dangers and procedures involved in bed-sharing with a newborn baby and select a mattress that is safe for your baby.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding along their edges, which could cause your baby to become entrapped. You also need to be aware not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby could crawl or roll into.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can help you create an environment that is safe for your baby, and help you understand the dangers of SIDS. They will also inform you about the'sweet sleep' of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.