Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper cot is a bassinet that can be attached to the side of your bed and allows you to reach for baby during the night. This kind of co-sleeping has been suggested by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close by without being at risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good parenting option. Although some parents are worried that sleeping in close proximity to their baby increases the risk of SIDS, research like those published by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a bed, which can increase the risk for SIDS. Bedside cots designed for co-sleeping are made to provide a safe middle ground between beds that share and separate sleeping surfaces. They permit parents to reach over and soothe their child without leaving their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured regularly However, exhausted parents may find it difficult to leave their bed to feed or comfort them. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option of keeping their infant close to them and not leave their comfortable bedding. Some co sleepers feature an innovative design, for instance the SnuzPod. The four walls can be opened to turn the cot in a cradle. This provides 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 chance of SIDS increases if a parent smokes (even with a co-sleeper) and also if drinks or substances are consumed, even in small quantities. It's not recommended to sleep in a crib with a baby if the mother or father have an history of snoring. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs in order to minimize the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. A bedside cot or bassinet is the most secure way to make sure this is done.
Safety
While co-sleeping is commonly practiced in many countries, the NHS suggests that infants sleep in their own cot instead of sharing a bed. This is due to the increased risk of overheating and suffocation. Baby's in bed with their parents are more likely covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This could lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is an ideal solution. The close proximity to parents will ensure that the baby isn't suffocated or overheated, while being capable of being easily reached to feed at night and be comforted.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod image first went viral in 2014, parents around the world were eager to get their hands on one to try out safe co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement doctors do not support the idea of a sleeping bed that attaches to the sides of an adult bed.
The primary issue is that a parent could fall over the infant, causing suffocation or strangulation. This is particularly true in the case of a parent who is asleep when drinking, smoking or taking drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are additional risks.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is essential that you choose one that is in line with the highest standards of safety. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and shouldn't be prone to sliding. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and age for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers be required to meet the new safety standard which was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. There are still older models available for sale in some stores, but these are gradually disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.
Before you buy a used model, check that it's in good shape. Verify that bedside cot wooden used to fix the bed to the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits into the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. The sheets should fit comfortably so that the baby can't wriggle into a pocket, and become trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer option. These cribs are designed to connect directly to the parent's bed so that the baby can be easily reached for feeding or sleeping. This means that tired parents don't have to leave their sleeping areas during the night, and they can keep a close watch on their child while still getting a goodnight's sleep.
Babies sleeping in a separate room are more likely to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. According to research babies sleep better when they are close to their parents. You can also react quickly to any issues or concerns, or even reassure your baby, making them more comfortable.
The best bedside bassinet or crib for your family will depend on several aspects, including the location of your home and the plans for the future. For example, if you are living with a spouse or household member who may wish to use your bedside crib then it might be best to look at convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows up. A lot of our cribs have this option, and we suggest getting in touch with us for more information.
The bedside crib fosters bonding between the mother and baby. It is a convenient and safe choice for new parents who are tired. Studies have shown that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to feed longer when their baby is near and this results in an increased and secure attachment between the pair.
This is why a bedside cot has become so popular, and a good option for a new mom who wishes to keep their baby close. When purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is as there are options available at all price levels.