Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper consists of a bassinet welded to the side of your mattress that allows you to reach baby in the middle night. This kind of co-sleeping is recommended by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it lets you keep your baby close by without being at risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great parenting option. Although some parents are concerned that sleeping in close proximity to their infant could increase the risk of SIDS, research like those published by NHS suggest otherwise. But, it's important to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleep surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS when not carried out correctly. Bedside cots with co sleepers have been designed to provide a secure middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces, allowing a parent to reach over their child and easily soothe them without leaving the security of their own bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed frequently however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot co-sleeper allows parents to keep their infant at arm's length and not have to leave their bed. The unique design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to zip down and turn the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an extra layer of security which makes it easier for parents who are tired to watch their newborn while remaining in bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs could increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with children is not recommended when the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS recommends ensuring that young babies are always sleeping on their back to minimise the chance of rolling and the risk of suffocation. A bassinet or bedside cot is the most secure method to make sure this is done.
Safety
While co-sleeping is widely practiced in many countries, 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 who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets, which could obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib that is placed near the bed is a fantastic solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the child is not being suffocated or overheated, while being accessible to feed at night and be comforted.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became viral four years ago, parents around the world were eager to own one to experience safe co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the excitement and interest doctors aren't yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of a bed for adults.
The main issue is that a parent could fall onto the infant and cause suffocation or strangulation. This is especially true in the case of a parent who is asleep when drinking, smoking or using drugs. Other dangers include overheating, the possibility of a fall and the risk of maternal death during pregnancy and following the birth of a child.
If similar web site choose to opt for a bedside sleeper, it's vital to choose one that is in line with the highest safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be prone sagging. Also, you should be aware of the recommended weight and age for the sleeper.
All new bedside beds will have to comply with the new safety standard which was launched in November 2020. It replaces the previous standards. You may still see older models for sale in a few stores however, they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers make the transition to the new safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a used model, make sure it's in good condition. Make sure that the mechanism that is used to anchor the bed on the parent's mattress is strong and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper properly without any bulges or gaps. Sheets should also fit snugly, so that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and get stuck in a pocket or be at risk of being suffocated.
Convenience
Many new parents feel the natural desire to be by their baby's bed at night, but sleep experts like Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer choice. They are made to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, allowing baby to be in reach to feed at night and providing comfort. This means that exhausted parents don't have to leave their own sleeping areas during the night, and they can keep an watch on their child while getting a good night's rest.
Children who sleep in separate rooms are more likely to experience pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are more prone to SIDS. According to research babies sleep better when they are with their parents. You can also quickly respond to any issue or concern your baby and make them feel more at ease.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family depends on many factors, such as the existing situation and plans for the future. If you live with a spouse or if your child is likely to be using the crib as they grow and develops, it is best to select a convertible crib that will transform into a solitary crib or toddlers beds. We suggest contacting us to inquire about this feature.
The bedside crib helps foster bonding between the baby and mother. It's a convenient and safe option for new parents who are tired. Research has shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to nurse longer when their baby's close. This creates a stronger attachment between the two.
A bedside cot is an excellent option for mothers who wish to keep their child close. When buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper, it is essential to make sure that it meets all the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is, since there are options at all price points.