The 10 Most Scariest Things About Bedside Sleeper Cot

Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also known as 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 sleeping area. Our mums love that they are easy to reach and that they can also swivel or lower the sides to make them more accessible.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot permits babies to be within reach of their parents in their beds for feeding at night, as well as monitoring and comfort, without exposing them to the dangers associated with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are in line 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 breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, creating healthy attachments that help with developmental milestones. Parents should look for bassinets that are easy to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers due to the latest products that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeper by the side rails being lower in front of a bed for adults. This allows a portion of the lower part to be elevated over the mattress and presents an increased risk of getting trapped. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision based on the mandatory standards in place under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products which are in use for longer than 180 days and is expected reduce the chance of injury.

Be aware that the bassinet or 4-in-1 bedside crib sleeper is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows, or other bedding. This can pose an obstructing risk since young children aren't able to raise their heads sufficiently to pull them away from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position could cause the head to slide forward blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back in a crib, bassinet or play yard or cheap bedside cot sleeper and be sure to use sheets that are fitted to meet federal requirements.

Convenience

A baby who is close to you throughout the night can help build a bond between newborns and parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached on the side of your mattress, allowing you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in middle of the night. We searched for models that had mesh sides that were translucent and able to be seen through, allowing you to keep an eye on your child without having to get up from the bed.

It's important that the bassinet you choose is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing agency and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for a broad base, a sturdy attachment mechanism, and a solid construction that prevents the bassinet from falling over. A mattress that is breathable should be included.

Choose the model that comes with an option for manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them fall asleep. Some models have tilt features that can be useful for babies suffering from colic or reflux. However this should only be used on the advice of a GP or health professional.

Some bassinets include a mattress however, others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure you purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the bedside bassinet. Second-hand mattresses can be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also have to purchase an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. Check the fabric lining and foam mattress, which can be washed by machine for ease of cleaning. A basket or shelf for storage can be a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothes, and muslins. You can find models that have wheels that help you move it around the home.

Breastfeeding support

If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you to get the most out of your evening feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby when he wakes up. The side of the cot can be adjusted to create a bed that is shallow for side-by side sleeping. Some models can also tilt to provide support for 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 sleeper feature an automatic rocking feature which can help your child relax and encourage them to fall back asleep faster after eating.

A soft fabric, as well as machine washable and removable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Some models come with gentle rocking or vibration functions which can soothe your baby to sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also be happy with the storage space.

It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This allows them to form an intimate bond as they sleep. Research has shown that infants who are breastfed and sleep together have better outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers and procedures involved in sharing a crib with a newborn and choose a safe mattress for your infant.

Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which could cause your baby to get entrapped. You also need to be careful not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.

If you are worried about the safety of a bedside cosleeper sleeper, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can help you create a safe sleep environment for your baby, and explain the risks of SIDS. They will also teach you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.