Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed so that your baby is close enough for night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our moms love how they are easy to reach, and can also swivel the sides or drop them to get closer.

Safety

A bedside cot wooden sleeper cot allows infants to stay within reach of parents in their beds for feeding at night, providing comfort and monitoring, without putting them at risk with sharing beds (which can lead to 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 the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.

They also offer instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. Parents should look for bassinets which are easy to clean, safe to use, and have been endorsed by a reputable organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers due to the latest products that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by the side rails being lower adjacent to an adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower side to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased chance of entrapment. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision with reference to the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for infant or toddler products that have been in use more than 180days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.

Be aware that a bedside cot mattress or bassinet is not recommended to be used with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could pose an entrapment risk since babies are unable to raise their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head tip forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard, or a bedside sleeper. Make certain to use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.

Convenience

It is important to keep your baby close to you during the night. This helps create a bond between newborns and parents. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the side of your bed, allowing you to easily reach your little one for middle-of-the-night diaper changes, feedings and comforting. We searched for models that had mesh sides that were translucent and easy to see through so you can monitor your child without stepping up from bed.

It's important that the bassinet you pick is tested as safe for babies by an independent testing organization and that it meets the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It is recommended to choose a bassinet with a wide base and a strong attachment system. A comfortable mattress is crucial as well.

Find a model that has a manual rocking feature. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them sleep. Some models also come with a tilt option, which can be helpful for babies suffering from reflux or colic, but should only be used under the supervision of your doctor or health care professional.

Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require that you purchase one separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the cheap bedside cot sleeper. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft and pose a SIDS risk. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted bed sheet and muslin baby blanket. Check the fabric lining and foam mattress, which can be washed by machine to make cleaning easier. A storage shelf or basket can be a useful feature to store things like nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. You can also find models that have wheels for ease of movement around your house.

Breastfeeding support

If you decide to nurse your infant at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will assist you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. Attached to your bed you can reach across to feed your baby once they wake up. The side of the cot can be lowered to create a shallow bed for sleeping side-by-side. Certain models tilt to accommodate reflux.

The curving sides make it easy to see and help lift your baby to feed. They won't fall off the side. Some bedside cribs come with an automatic rocking feature that will calm your child and help them to fall asleep faster after eating.

A soft fabric, as well as 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. The storage space is a an advantage for breastfeeding moms.

Bed-sharing is a popular choice for breastfeeding mothers because it is convenient and provides the mother with a close relationship with her baby during their sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a bed with their mothers are more successful than babies who are bottle-fed. However, it is important that you know the safety hazards and practices that come with sharing a bed with a newborn and select a mattress that is safe for your infant.

Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft edges, which could trap your baby. Also, you must be careful not to let the bedside sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your child may crawl into or roll over.

If you are concerned about the safety of a bedside sleeper take a look at attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to learn more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can assist you in creating an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby and help you understand the dangers of SIDS. They will also teach you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which has many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.