The 10 Most Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

best bedside cot for newborn Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also known as bassinet) can be 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 also rotate the sides or drop them to get closer.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot allows infants to stay close to parents in their beds for feeding at night, comforting and monitoring without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which could result in 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 immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, creating healthy attachments that aid in the development of milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets that are easy to clean, safe to use, and have been certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside cots sleeper voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer products that convert from the bassinet into the bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, and allowing some areas of the lower side to be at an elevated level above the mattress, which presents an increased risk for entrapment. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision of the mandatory standard under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been used for more than 180 days and is expected to lower the chance of injuries.

Be aware that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should not be used in conjunction with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could create the risk of suffocation since many young children aren't able to raise their heads enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclined position could cause the head to tilt forward, blocking their airway. Always place 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

A baby who is close to you at night can help build a bond between newborns and their parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the side of your mattress which allows you to reach your baby easily for diaper changes, feedings and comforting in middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent enough to see through, so you could monitor your child without having to get out of bed.

It is crucial that the bassinet you select is deemed safe for babies by an independent testing organisation and that it meets all requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a broad base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a solid construction that will stop the bassinet from falling over. A comfortable mattress is crucial, too.

Look for the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them fall asleep. Some models come with a tilt feature that is beneficial for newborns who suffer from reflux or colic. However, this should only be used under the advice of a doctor or health professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses and some require you to purchase one separately. Find a mattress made to fit the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and could pose a SIDS risk. It is also necessary to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier ensure that the fabric lining or mattress can be cleaned in the machine. A storage shelf or basket is a great option to store things like nappies, clothing and muslins. There are also models with wheels that allow for ease of movement around your house.

Breastfeeding support

If you choose to feed your baby in the night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed can help you get the most from your feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby when you wake up. The cot's side can then lower to create a bassinet that is shallow for safe side-by-side sleeping. Some models also tilt to help with reflux.

The curved sides of the cot mean that it's easy to see your baby and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up for a feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper have an automatic rocking feature which can calm your baby and help them to return to sleep more quickly after a feed.

A soft fabric, as well as removable and machine-washable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having plenty of storage.

It is a good idea for breastfeeding mothers to share their bed with their babies. This also allows them to form a close bond while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the risks and pitfalls of sharing an infant's bed and to select an appropriate mattress for your baby.

Some beds have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which may cause your baby to get entrapped. You must also be cautious to not let your bedside cosleeper device slide backwards. This could create an opening through which your baby can crawl or roll.

If you are worried about the safety of a bedside sleeper take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help understand the risks of SIDS. They can also educate you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.