Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside cot co sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the bed's side, allowing you to reach out for your baby during the night. This type of cosleeping has 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 crucial parenting choice. Many parents are concerned that sleeping with their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. But, it's important to remember that co-sleeping requires sharing a single sleeping surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS if not executed in a proper manner. Co-sleepers for bedside cots are designed to be a safe, middle space between the two sleeping areas. They permit parents to reach over and comfort their child without having to leave their bed.
It is essential to feed and comfort your baby regularly. However, parents who are tired might find it difficult to get up from their beds to feed their baby. The bedside sleeper gives parents the option to keep their baby close and not have to leave their comfortable bedding. Some co sleepers have an innovative design, for instance the SnuzPod. The four walls can be zipped down to convert the cot into a cradle, providing an additional layer of security. This allows exhausted parents to watch their newborns while still lying in bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases if smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and also if alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small amounts. It's not a good idea to sleep with a baby if either the mother or father have a history of having a snore. The NHS suggests that young babies are always put to sleep on their backs in order to minimize the risk of accidental rolling and the risk of suffocation. A bedside cot or bassinet is the most secure way to ensure this.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies be placed in their own cribs rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the higher risk of overheating and suffocation. Children who sleep with their parents are more likely to be surrounded by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which can restrict their breathing and contribute to SIDS. A bedside crib can be an ideal solution. Being close to parents will ensure that the child isn't being suffocated, or overheated, while being accessible to feed at night and be comforted.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod image first went viral four years ago parents from all over the world were eager to own one to test the safest co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement, doctors aren't yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of an adult bed.
4-in-1 bedside crib is that a parent could roll onto an infant and cause strangulation or death. The risk of this happening is particularly high if the parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or using drugs while asleep. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are additional risks.
If you choose to go with a bedside sleeper, it is essential that you choose one that meets the highest standards of safety. 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 limitations and age guidelines for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers must comply with the new safety standard which was launched in November 2020 and replaces previous standards. There may be older models for sale in some stores but they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers transition to the new safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a used model, check that it's in good shape. Make sure that the mechanism used to secure the bed to the mattress of the parent is sturdy and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper properly without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too to ensure that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and become trapped in a pocket or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer choice. They are designed to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, allowing the baby to remain in reach to feed at night and providing comfort. This lets parents sleep well at the end of the night without having to leave their bed.
Babies who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely than other children to experience pauses in their breathing (apnoea), and also are at a higher risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they're close to their parents. You can also quickly respond to any issues or concerns, or even reassure your baby to make them feel more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet crib for your family is dependent on several factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. For instance, if live with a partner or housemate who may also want to use the bedside crib, it could be beneficial to consider convertible options that can grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child develops. We recommend contacting us to inquire about this feature.
The bedside crib encourages bonding with the baby and mother. It's a convenient and safe choice for new parents who are tired. Studies have shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to breastfeed longer when their infant is close, which in turn results in an even stronger and more secure bond between the two.
A bedside cot is an ideal option for new mothers who want to keep their infant close. When buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper it is important to ensure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It is also important to take into consideration your budget, as there are numerous options to choose from.