A Rewind What People Talked About Bedside Sleeper Cot 20 Years Ago
large bedside cot (also called bassinet) can be attached to the side of your bed so baby can be close enough for night feeding but safe within their own space to sleep. Our moms love that they are easy to reach and that they can also swivel or drop the sides to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, comfort and feed their infants at night without worrying about the dangers of sharing a bed. This could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots adhere to 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 breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, promoting healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. It is crucial that parents look for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and make sure they've been tested and certified by a trusted agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper voluntary standard F2906 to respond to newer products that convert from the bassinet into the bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail next to an adult bed, and allowing certain areas of the lower portion to be at an elevated level above the mattress, which poses an increased risk for entrapment. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision to the current mandatory standard set under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been used for longer than 180 days and is expected to decrease the risk of injury.
Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This can be a suffocation hazard as young babies are unable to lift their heads up enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position can cause the head to tip forward, blocking their airway. Always place your child on their backs while using a crib, bassinet or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
Being close to your baby you during the night helps to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the sides of your mattress and allow you to reach your baby easily to change diapers, feeds and comforting in middle of the night. We searched for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could monitor your baby without having to leave your bed.
It's important that the bassinet you select is tested as safe for infants by an independent testing agency, and meets all the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Make sure you choose a large base, a strong attachment mechanism and sturdy construction which prevents the bassinet from slipping over. A breathable mattress is essential, too.
Choose a model with an option for manual rocking that is gentle on your baby and will aid in settling them down. Some models have a tilt feature that is beneficial for babies suffering from colic or reflux. However, this should only be used on the advice of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require that you purchase a mattress separately. Buy a mattress designed to fit the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and could pose a SIDS risk. You will also need to buy a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a blanket for your baby. For easy cleaning ensure that the fabric lining 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. There are also models with wheels for easy movement around your home.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you make the most of your feedings at night. By securing it to your bed, it allows you to easily reach across when baby wakes for a feed. The cot's sides can drop down to create a shallow bassinet for a secure side-by-side sleep. Some models can also tilt to provide support for reflux.
The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't fall off the side as you lift them up to feed. Some bedside sleeper cots also have an automatic rocking feature which can soothe your baby and help them to return to sleep faster after a meal.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle rocking or vibration features 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 the bed with their infants. This lets them develop an intimate bond while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed and have a shared space to sleep have higher outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and practices associated with sharing the bed with a baby and to select an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. Also, you must be aware not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your baby could crawl or roll into.
If you are concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can help you create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help understand the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to enjoy the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy, which includes many protection factors that are similar to breastfeeding.