Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) is attached to the bed's side so baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own bed. Our mums love how they are simple to reach and also swivel the sides or lower them to be closer.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot lets newborns to be safely close to parents' beds for nighttime feeding, comforting and monitoring without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts like director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also provide instant breastfeeding support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, encouraging healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and have been certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert a bassinet into a bedside rocking crib sleeper by lowering one side rail to an adult bed, and allowing some areas of the lower side to be at an elevated height above the mattress, which presents an increased risk for trapping. The CPSC's direct rule incorporates 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 in use for more than 180 days. It is expected to lower the chance of injury.

Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could create the risk of suffocation since many young babies cannot lift their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclined position can cause the head to tilt forward, obstructing their airway. Always put 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

Having your baby close to you throughout the night can help create a bond between newborns and parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached to the sides of your mattress which allows you to easily reach your baby for feedings, diaper changes and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were transparent enough to allow for visibility, so you could watch your child without having to leave your bed.

It is crucial that the bassinet you select is certified as safe for infants by an independent testing organisation, and meets all the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for a wide base, a strong attachment mechanism, and a sturdy structure that prevents the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress should also be included.

Look for a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby bedside crib and can help settle them to sleep. Certain models also have a tilt option, which can be helpful for newborns with reflux or colic, but should only be used with the guidance of your doctor or health professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses however, others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Find a mattress made to be suitable for the bedside sleeper. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and may pose a SIDS risk. You should also buy a breathable fitted bed sheet and the muslin baby blanket. For ease of cleaning make sure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be cleaned in the machine. A storage shelf or basket is a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothing and muslins. You can find models that have wheels that enable it to be moved around the home.

Breastfeeding support

If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot will help you maximize your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's sides can drop down to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Some models also tilt to help with reflux.

The curved sides of the cot bedside ensure that it's easy to spot your baby and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up to feed. Some bedside sleeper cribs have an automatic rocking feature that can calm your child and encourage them to go back to sleep faster after eating.

When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a soft bedding and fabric that can be washed in the machine are helpful. Certain models are equipped with gentle rocking or vibration features which can calm your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is another benefit for breastfeeding mothers.

It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share the bed with their infants. This also allows them to form bonds of friendship during their sleep. Research shows that breastfed babies 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 dangers and practices associated with sharing a bed with a newborn and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.

Some sleepers in the bed have soft surfaces or padding on their edges, which can cause your baby to become entrapped. You should also be careful to not let your bedside device slide backwards. This could cause a gap into which your child can crawl or roll.

If you're concerned about the security of a sleeper in bed you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. They can help you create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.