The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
From Shiapedia
Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the bed's side so that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our mums love how they are easy to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to get closer.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot lets newborns to be safely within reach of their parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, comforting and monitoring without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots comply with NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts such as Dr. McKenna, director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, encouraging healthy attachment that can assist with milestones in development. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use. ensure they have been tested and certified by a trusted agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for travel bedside crib sleepers to respond to the newer models that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside co sleeper cot sleeper by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased risk of being entangled. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision by reference to the existing mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products that are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injury.
Remember that a bassinet, or bedside crib sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could pose a risk of suffocation since young babies are unable to lift their heads high enough to free them from soft objects. A reclining position may result in the head tipping to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always place your baby on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper and be sure to use only a fitted sheet that meets federal requirements.
Convenience
Having your baby close to you at night can help create a bond between newborns and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the side of your mattress, allowing you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could monitor your child without having to leave your bed.
It's important that the bassinet you select is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation and that it meets the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for an infant bassinet that has a large base and a strong attachment system. A comfortable mattress is crucial also.
Choose the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Some models also have tilting options which can be beneficial for newborns with colic or reflux, but should only be used on the advice of your GP or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require that you purchase a mattress separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to be suitable for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and may pose a SIDS risk. You will also need to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet for your bed and a blanket for your baby. For ease of cleaning, check that the lining fabric or mattress can be washed using a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models that have wheels for easy movement around your home.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to nurse your baby in the night, a sleeper cot by your bed will help you get the most from your feedings. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's side can drop down to create a shallow bassinet for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models can tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides allow you to see and lift your baby to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and encourage them to fall asleep quicker after a meal.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle rocking and vibration features that can help soothe your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
Bed-sharing is a popular choice for breastfeeding mothers due to it being practical and helps them to form an intimate bond with their baby while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a bed with their mothers have better outcomes than those who are bottle-fed. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing the bed with a baby and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft surfaces on the edges, which could trap your baby. Also, you must be careful not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, creating an opening that your child could crawl into or roll into.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking to an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can assist you in creating an environment that is safe for your baby and also explain the dangers 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.