Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that attaches to the bed's side, allowing you to reach for your baby during the night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great option for parents. Some parents worry that sleeping next to their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. Co-sleeping is sharing the same sleeping surface that can increase the risk for SIDS. Bedside cots designed for co-sleeping are made to provide a safe middle ground between the two sleeping areas. They allow parents to reach over and provide comfort to their child without having to leave their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed regularly however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort their children. The bedside co-sleeper gives parents to keep their baby close and not have to leave their comfy bed. Some co sleepers come with an innovative design, like the SnuzPod. The four walls can be opened to convert the cot into a cradle. This provides an additional layer of protection. This allows tired parents to be able to watch their babies while they sleep.
It is worth bearing in mind that the chance of SIDS increases if parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or drugs are consumed even in small quantities. It's also not recommended to sleep with a baby if either the father or mother have a history of having a snore. The NHS recommends ensuring that infants are put to sleep on their back to minimise the risk of accidental rolling and death. The most secure option is to use a bedside cot or bassinet.
Safety
The NHS suggests that babies sleep in their own cribs, rather than share your bed. This is due to the higher risk of suffocation and overheating. Baby's in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets. This can lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be an ideal solution. The close proximity to parents will ensure that the child is not being suffocated or overheated, while being capable of being easily reached for feedings at night and comforting.
Parents from all over the world were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became popular in 2004. bedside crib and cot wanted to test safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement and enthusiasm doctors aren't yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of a bed for adults.
The primary concern is that a parent could roll onto an infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. The risk of this is particularly high if a parent is drinking, smoking, alcohol or taking drugs while asleep. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are other risks.
If you decide to choose a bedside sleeper it is important that you select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be prone to sagging. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the weight limits and age-related recommendations for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers must conform to the new safety standard which was announced in November of 2020 and replaces the previous standards. You may still see older models available for sale in some shops but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers transition to the new safety standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, check that it's in good shape. Make sure that the mechanism used to secure the bed on the mattress of the parent is sturdy and doesn't leave gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper in a proper way, without gaps or bulges. The sheets should also fit snugly so that the baby doesn't slide into a pocket and get trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib is a better option. They are designed to attach to the side of a parent's bed, keeping baby in reach for feeding at night and relaxing. bedside crib and cot allows parents to sleep well at night without having to leave their bed.
Babies who sleep in separate rooms are more likely to suffer from breathing pauses (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they are in close to their parents. You can also quickly respond to any issues or concerns, or even reassure your baby, making them more comfortable.
Selecting the ideal bedside crib or bassinet for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including your living environment and long-term plans. For instance, if you have a partner or housemate who may also wish to use your bedside crib then it might be a good idea to consider convertible options that can be converted into standalone cribs or toddler beds as your child develops. A lot of our cribs have this feature, and we recommend contact us for more details.
The bedside crib helps foster bonding with the baby and mother. It is a convenient and safe option for new parents who are tired. Studies have shown breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse longer when their baby's close. This creates a stronger attachment between the two.
A bedside cot could be a great option for new mothers who wish to keep their child close. When buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper, it is essential to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth assessing what your budget is because there are options at all price levels.