Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper (also known by the name bassinet) is connected to the bed's side to ensure that your child can be close enough to feed them at night while still being safe in their own space to sleep. Our mums love how they are simple to reach, and can also rotate the sides or drop them to get closer.
Safety
The bedside sleeper lets parents monitor, comfort and feed their babies at night without worrying about the dangers of sharing a bed. This could lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The cots are designed to adhere to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts such as director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also provide instant nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, encouraging healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use. make sure they've been tested and approved by a trusted agency such as 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 the side rails being lower adjacent to an adult bed. This allows a portion of the lower part to be elevated above the mattress, which poses an increased chance of entrapment. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard in section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for products for toddlers and infants that have been used for more than 180 days and is expected to lower the risk of injury.
Be aware that a bassinet or bedside sleeper, should never be used in conjunction with pillows or blankets. This could pose a risk of suffocation since babies are unable to raise their heads high enough to free them from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head to tip to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always put your child on their backs while using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close during the night. This can help create a bond between newborns and parents. Bassinets for sleepers that are attached to the sides of your bed and allow you to easily reach your child for diaper changes in the middle of the night feedings, as well as comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and visible through so you can monitor your child without having to get up from bed.
It is essential to ensure that the bassinet meets the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) specifications and is deemed safe for babies. Look for a wide base, a sturdy attachment mechanism and sturdy construction that prevents the bassinet from falling over. A breathable mattress should be included.
Look for the model that comes with the option of manual rocking. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them sleep. Some models also come with tilting options which can be beneficial for newborns with colic or reflux, but should only be used under the supervision of your doctor or health professional.
Some bassinets come with a mattress while others require that you purchase one separately. Be sure to purchase the right mattress to fit in your bedside bassinet. Second-hand mattresses could be too soft and pose a risk of SIDS. You'll also need to invest in an air-tight fitted sheet and muslin blanket to your baby. For bedside cot reviews of cleaning ensure that the lining of the fabric or foam mattress can be washed using a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a useful feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are also models with wheels that allow for easy movement around your home.
Breastfeeding support
If you choose to feed your baby at night the sleeper cot that is placed next to your bed can aid you in getting the most benefit from your feedings. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's side can then drop down to create a shallow bassinet for a secure side-by-side sleep. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.
The curving sides allow you to see and help lift your baby to feed. They won't slide off the side. Some cots for bedside sleepers include an automatic rocking function which can calm your baby and encourage them to fall asleep faster after a meal.
When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a cosy bedding and fabric that can be machine-washed are helpful. Certain models are equipped with gentle rocking or vibration functions 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 a close bond with their baby during sleep. Research has revealed that babies who are breastfed and share a sleep space have much better outcomes than infants fed by bottles. It is important to be aware of the risks and pitfalls of sharing the bed with a baby and to choose the right mattress for your baby.
Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges that can keep your baby in the bag. Also, be careful not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, forming an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.

If you're worried about the safety of your baby or mother who sleeps next to you, attend an LLL meeting. Or talk with a Sleep Leader about your child's sleeping habits of your child. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby and help you recognize the risks of SIDS. They can also educate you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.