The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
From Shiapedia
Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) fixes to the bed's side to ensure 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 easy to reach, and can also rotate the sides or drop them to get closer.
Safety
The best bedside cots sleeper allows parents to supervise, comfort and feed their newborns at the night without worrying about the risks of sharing a bed. This could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are designed to adhere to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts like director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also offer 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 seek out bassinets that are easy to clean, 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 transform from a baby bassinet to a large bedside crib sleeping device by the side rails being lower next to a adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower part to be elevated over the mattress, which poses an increased risk of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision based on the mandatory standards in place under section 104 of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which have been used for more than 180days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could be a suffocation hazard as babies are unable to lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head to tip to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always place your child on their backs when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is essential to keep your baby close throughout the night. This can help create an emotional bond between parents and newborns. Bassinets that sleep in bed are securely attached to the sides of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your child to change diapers feedings, and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could monitor your baby without having to leave your bed.
You should make sure that the bassinet you purchase meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) requirements and is deemed safe for infants. You should choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a sturdy attachment system. A mattress that is breathable is important, too.
Look for the model that comes with the option of manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them sleep. Some models also have a tilt option which can be beneficial for infants suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health professional.
Some bassinets come with mattresses, while others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure you purchase the right mattress to fit the bedside bassinet, as second-hand mattresses could be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also have to purchase a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress are machine washable for ease of cleaning. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are models that have wheels that help you move it around the house.
Breastfeeding support
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot will help you make the most of your evening feedings. By attaching to your bed, it permits you to reach over easily when your baby is awake to feed. The cot's side can then lower to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Certain models tilt to accommodate reflux.
The curving sides allow you to see and lift your baby up to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some cribs with a bedside crib travel cot sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature that will calm your child and help them to fall back asleep quicker after a meal.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding can be beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models are equipped with gentle rocking or vibration features that can help aid in calming your baby. Having plenty of storage space is another bonus for breastfeeding mums.
It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share their bed with their babies. This also allows them to form bonds of friendship as they sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies who sleep with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the dangers and pitfalls of sharing an infant's bed and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which may cause your baby to become entrapped. Also, you must be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you're worried about the safety of a mother or baby who sleeps next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. or talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits of your child. They can explain how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the "sweet sleep the nursing mothers get, which includes many protective factors similar to breastfeeding.
