The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as bassinet) can be attached to the bed's side to ensure that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and that they can also pivot or lower the sides to be closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot allows newborns to be safely close to parents in their beds for feeding at night, comforting and monitoring without exposing them to the dangers associated with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are designed to adhere to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping. They are recommended by childcare experts such as director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also help promote healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This will help them reach their developmental milestones. Parents should search for bassinets which 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 standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside cot sale sleepers due to the newer models that transform from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by dropping a side rail in front of a bed for adults. This allows certain areas of lower side to be elevated above the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision with reference to the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.
Be aware that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This could be a risk of suffocation since babies are unable to lift their heads up enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head to tip to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a crib, bassinet or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close to you during the night. This can help create an emotional bond between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets are secured on the side of your mattress and allow you to easily reach your baby to change diapers, feeds, and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent and able to be seen through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without stepping up from bed.
It's important that the bassinet you choose is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation, and meets all the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure that prevents the bassinet from tipping over. A breathable mattress is essential, too.
Choose a model with a manual rocking function that's gentle on your baby and will help settle them to sleep. Some models come with a tilt feature which can be beneficial for infants suffering from reflux or colic. However, this should only be used under the advice of a doctor or health care professional.
Some bassinets come with mattresses, while others require you to purchase one separately. Find a mattress made to be suitable for the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and may cause SIDS. It is also necessary to invest in a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier ensure that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed using the machine. A storage shelf or basket is a great option to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models with wheels that allow for ease of movement around your house.
Support for breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside cosleeper position can help you get the most out of your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby when they wake up. The cot's side can be raised to create a bed that is shallow to sleep side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to provide support for reflux.
The curved sides make it easy to see and lift your baby up to feed. They won't fall off the side. Some bedside sleeper cots also feature an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and help them to return to sleep more quickly after a feed.
If you want to keep your baby clean, a cozy fabric and removable bedding that can be washed in the machine are a great option. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. The storage space is also a benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
Bed-sharing is very popular for breastfeeding mothers because it is practical and helps them to form a close bond with their baby while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed and share a sleep space have much better outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. But, it is crucial to be aware of the dangers and procedures involved in sharing a bed with a newborn and pick a suitable mattress for your infant.
Some beds have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which may cause your baby to get trapped. You also need to be cautious not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, creating an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you are worried about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside cot newborn, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can assist you in creating an environment that is safe for your baby and explain the risks of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to enjoy the'sweet sleep that nursing mothers love that includes many safeguards that are similar to breastfeeding.
