Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper consists of a bassinet welded to the side of your mattress which lets you be able to reach your baby during the middle of night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great parenting choice. Although some parents are worried that sleeping in close proximity to their infant will increase the risk of SIDS, studies like those published by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. But, it's crucial to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing a single sleeping surface and can therefore increase the risk of SIDS if not done so in a safe manner. Bedside cot co sleepers have been designed to provide a secure middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas, allowing a parent to hold their child and effortlessly to comfort or nurse them without leaving the security of their own bed.
travel bedside crib sleep best when they are fed and comforted regularly, but exhausted parents can find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort their children. The bedside co-sleeper gives parents the option of keeping their infant close to them and not leave their comfortable bedding. The innovative design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to zip down and turn the crib into a cradle, providing an additional layer of protection which makes it easier for parents who are exhausted to keep an eye on their baby while still in the bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. It is also not a good idea to co-sleep with a baby if either the mother or father have a history of snoring. The NHS suggests that young babies are always placed to sleep on their backs in order to minimize the chance of rolling and death. The safest choice is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet.
Safety
While co-sleeping is a common practice in many countries however, the NHS recommends that infants sleep in their own cot rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the higher risk of overheating and suffocation. Babies in bed with parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets, which could hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is a fantastic solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the baby isn't suffocated or overheated. Moreover, the baby is able to be easily reached for night-time feedings and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod image first went viral four years ago parents across the globe were eager to acquire one to experience safe co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement and enthusiasm, however, doctors are not yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for adults.
The main concern is that a parent could fall on an infant and cause strangulation or the child to suffocate. The risk is especially high if the parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or taking drugs during sleep. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are additional risks.
If you decide to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is vital to choose one that is in line with the highest standards of safety. The mattress should fit comfortably without gaps and shouldn't be susceptible to sagging. It is also important to be aware of the recommended weight and age of the sleeper.
All new bedside beds will be required to meet the new safety standard which was launched in November 2020. It replaces the previous standards. There may be older models available for sale in some stores, but these are slowly disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, check that it's in good condition. Verify that the mechanism that secures the bed to the parent's bed is sturdy and does not leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress is placed within the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. The sheets should also fit snugly so that the baby won't get into a pocket and become trapped or choke.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a better option. They are designed to be attached to the sides of parents' bed, allowing baby to be within easy reach to feed at night and relaxing. Parents can sleep well at night without having to leave their bed.
Children who sleep in a separate bedroom are more likely than other children to experience pauses in their breathing (apnoea) and also are at a higher risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are with their parents. You can also react quickly to any problems or reassure your baby and make them feel more at ease.
The ideal bedside bassinet crib for your family is dependent on a variety of factors, including your living situation and future plans. For instance, if have a partner or housemate who may also prefer to use the bedside crib then it might be a good idea to consider convertible options that can grow into standalone cribs or toddler beds as your child grows up. We recommend contacting us to find out more about this option.
Apart from being a secure and practical option for exhausted new parents, the primary benefit of a crib that is placed near the bed is the fact that it fosters bonding between baby and mother. Research has shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to breastfeed longer when their baby is near, which in turn results in an increased and secure attachment between the pair.
A bedside cot is a great option for new mothers who want to keep their baby close to them. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to make sure that it meets all the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It's also worth assessing what your budget is, as there are options available at all price levels.