Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also called a bassinet) is connected to the side of a bed so that your baby can be close enough to feed at night, while remaining safe in their own sleeping space. Our moms love how they are simple to reach, and can also pivot the sides and drop them to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper allows parents to monitor, comfort and feed their infants at the night without worrying about the dangers of bed-sharing. This can 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 the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory.
They also provide instant breastfeeding support and can help babies feel more secure by keeping them close to their parents, encouraging healthy attachment that can aid in the development of milestones. Parents should seek out bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use and have been certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the standard F2906 that is voluntary for bedside sleepers in response to the newer models that convert from a baby bassinet to a bedside sleeper by dropping a side rail adjacent to an adult bed. This allows some portions of the lower part to be elevated over the mattress and poses an increased chance of being entangled. The CPSC direct final rule incorporates this revision based on the existing mandatory standards under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008(CPSIA) for sturdy baby or toddler products which have been in use longer than 180 days and is expected to lower the risk of injuries.
Keep in mind that a bassinet or bedside sleeper should never be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could create a suffocation risk as many young babies cannot lift their heads sufficiently to keep them from soft objects. Additionally, a reclining position can cause the head to tip forward, obstructing their airway. Always place your child on their backs in a crib, bassinet or play yard or bedside sleeper and be sure to use a fitted sheet that meets the requirements of the federal government.
Convenience
It is crucial to keep your baby close during the night. This creates a bond between newborns and parents. Bassets for bedside sleepers are firmly attached on the side of your mattress and allow you to easily reach your baby for diaper changes, feedings, 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 baby without needing to leave the bed.
It is essential that the bassinet you choose is deemed safe for babies by an independent testing organisation and that it meets the specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It is recommended to choose an infant bassinet that has a large base and a strong attachment system. A breathable mattress should be included.
Choose a model with a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and will aid in settling them down. Some models also come with tilt options which can be beneficial for babies suffering from reflux or colic but should only be used under the guidance of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress and some require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure you purchase a mattress that is designed to fit the bedside bassinet, since second-hand mattresses can be too soft and could pose a risk of SIDS. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a blanket for your baby. Be sure to check the fabric lining. The foam mattress are machine washable to make it easier to clean. A storage shelf or a basket is a convenient feature to store things like nappies, clothes and muslins. You can also find models with wheels for easy movement around your home.
Support for Breastfeeding

If you choose to feed your baby at night, a sleeper cot by your bed can assist you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. By securing it to your bed, it permits you to reach easily when your baby is awake to feed. The cot's side can then drop down to create a shallow bassinet to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Some models can also tilt for reflux support.
The curving sides of the cot mean that it's easy for you to see your baby, and they won't roll out of the side as you lift them up to feed. Some cots with a bedside sleeper include an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and help them to go to sleep quicker after feeding.
A cosy fabric and removable and machine-washable bedding are helpful when it comes to keeping your baby clean. Some models have gentle vibration or rocking functions that can help calm your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
It is a good idea for breastfeeding mothers to share a bed with their babies. This lets them develop an intimate bond while they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed and share a sleep space have higher outcomes than bottle-feeding infants. It is important to be aware of the risks and practices that come with sharing an infant's bed and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags for babies have soft surfaces on the edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. You also need to be aware not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, creating a gap that your baby may crawl into or roll over.
If you're concerned about the safety of a baby who sleeps at the bedside you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and infants. small bedside cot can help you create a safe sleeping environment for your baby and help you understand the risks of SIDS. They can also teach you how to get the'sweet sleep the nursing mothers get and includes a variety of safeguards that are similar to breastfeeding.