The 10 Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot
Bedside Sleeper Cot [Blogs.Cornell.Edu]
A bedside crib or cot sleeper cot (also called a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our mums appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also pivot or lower the sides to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their babies at the night without worrying about the dangers of bed-sharing. This can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping. They are recommended by childcare experts like director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also help encourage healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. Parents should search for bassinets which are easy to clean and safe to use and have been certified by a respected organization such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from the bassinet into a bedside sleeper by lowering one side rail to an adult bed, allowing some areas of the lower portion to be elevated height above the mattress, which presents an increased risk of trapping. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision by reference to the existing mandatory standards in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for durable baby or toddler products that are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the risk of injuries.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should not be used in combination with blankets or pillows. This could pose a suffocation risk as many infants are unable to lift their heads enough to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position can cause the head to slide forward, obstructing their airway. Always place your baby on their backs in a bassinet, crib or play yard, or a bedside cot crib sleeper. Make certain to use sheets that are fitted to meet federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close during the night. This helps create a bond between the parents and their infants. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed and allow you to easily reach your baby to change diapers feedings, as well as comforting. We searched for models with mesh sides that were translucent and easy to see through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without having to get up from the bed.
It is crucial that the bassinet you choose is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation, and meets all the requirements of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a strong attachment mechanism. A breathable mattress is essential also.
Find models that have an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Some models also come with tilt options which can be beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used with the supervision of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets include a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Find a mattress made to fit the bedside sleeper. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and may be a risk for SIDS. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and the muslin baby blanket. To make cleaning easier make sure that the lining fabric or foam mattress can be washed in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage can be a useful option to store things like nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can find models with wheels to help you move it around the home.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position will help you maximize your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby whenever they wake up. The cot's sides can drop down to create a shallow bassinet for safe side-by-side sleeping. Some models also tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't roll out of the side as you lift them up for a feed. Some bedside sleeper cots also include an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and encourage them to fall asleep quicker after feeding.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking and vibration functions that can help soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
It is beneficial for nursing mothers to share their bed with their babies. This lets them develop an intimate bond as they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. It is important to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing a bed with a newborn bedside cot and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft surfaces on the edges that can trap your baby. Be sure to not let your mattress slide backwards. This could cause a gap into which your baby can crawl or roll.
If you're worried about the safety of a mother or baby who sleeps next to you, consider attending an LLL meeting. Talk to an experienced Sleep Leader about sleeping habits. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and also explain the dangers of SIDS. They can also educate you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.
