Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also called bassinet) fixes to the bed's side so that your baby can be close enough for feeding at night, but is safe in their own bed. Our moms appreciate that they are simple to reach and can also rotate or drop the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits infants to stay within reach of their parents sleeping in their beds for nighttime feeding, as well as monitoring and comfort, without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which could result in 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 Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also foster healthy attachment and breastfeeding by keeping babies close. This helps them to reach milestones in their development. Parents should search for bassinets that are easy to clean and safe to use and have been certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.
In bedside travel cot , ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper's voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert the bassinet into a bedside sleeper by dropping one side rail next to an adult bed, allowing certain areas of the lower side to be at an elevated level above the mattress, which poses an increased risk for trapping. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been in use for longer than 180 days and is expected to reduce the risk of injuries.
Keep in mind that a bassinet or bedside sleeper should not be used in conjunction with blankets, pillows or other bedding. This could pose an entrapment risk since babies are unable to lift their heads high enough to remove them from soft objects. A reclining position could result in the head tipping to move forward, thereby blocking their airway. Always put your child on their backs while using a bassinet, crib or play yard. Use a fitted sheet that is in compliance with the federal requirements.
Convenience
A baby who is close to you during the night helps to strengthen the bond between infants and parents. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed and let you easily reach your baby for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, and comforting. We looked for models that had mesh sides that were translucent enough to be able to see through so you could monitor your child without having to leave your bed.
It is crucial 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 choose a bassinet that has a wide base and a strong attachment mechanism. A breathable mattress should be considered.
Look for a model with a manual rocking function that's gentle on your baby and can aid in settling them down. Certain models have tilt features which can be beneficial for newborns who suffer from reflux or colic. However it should only be used under the advice of a doctor or health care professional.

Some bassinets come with mattresses, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Buy a mattress designed to be suitable for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Second-hand mattresses are often too soft, and could cause SIDS. You'll also have to purchase a comfortable fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. For easy cleaning make sure that the lining of the fabric or mattress can be cleaned in the machine. A storage shelf or basket can be a useful option to store essentials such as nappies or muslins, clothing, and nappies. There are models with wheels that enable it to be moved around the house.
Support for Breastfeeding
If you plan to feed your infant at night, a sleeper cot by your bed will aid you in getting the most from your feedings. By securing to your bed, it permits you to reach easily when your baby wakes up to feed. The cot's side can be adjusted to create a bed for sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides of the cot ensure that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up for a feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper feature an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and encourage them to go to sleep faster after a meal.
A cozy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are beneficial in keeping your baby clean. Certain models come with gentle vibration and rocking functions that can ease your baby into sleep. Ample storage space is another benefit for breastfeeding mothers.
It is convenient for breastfeeding mothers to share a bed with their babies. This allows them to form a close bond while they sleep. Research has proven that infants who breastfeed and share a sleep space have higher outcomes than infants fed by bottles. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and practices involved in sharing a bed with a newborn and choose a safe mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleepers have soft surfaces or padding around their edges, which may cause your baby to get entrapped. You also need to be aware not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, forming a gap that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you are worried about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside, consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can explain how to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also help you understand how to enjoy the'sweet sleep' that nursing mothers enjoy and includes a variety of safeguards that are similar to breastfeeding.