Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper consists of a bassinet welded to the mattress's side, which allows you to reach baby in the middle 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 can be a good parenting choice. Although some parents are concerned that sleeping close to their baby could increase the risk of SIDS, studies like those published by NHS suggest otherwise. Co-sleeping is sharing a bed that can increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots designed for co-sleeping are made to provide a safe middle space between beds that share and separate sleeping surfaces. They permit parents to reach over and provide comfort to their child without having to leave their bed.
bedside cots for newborns sleep best when they are fed and reassured frequently However, exhausted parents may find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort their children. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option to keep their infant close to them and not need to leave their comfy bed. The unique design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to zip down and transform the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of protection which makes it easier for parents who are tired to watch their baby while still in bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the chance of SIDS increases when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and if any drinks or substances are consumed even in small amounts. It's not recommended to co-sleep with a baby if either the father or mother have an history of snoring. The NHS recommends ensuring that babies are put to sleep on their backs to reduce the chance of rolling and suffocation. A bassinet or bedside cot is the most secure method to make sure this is done.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies be placed in their own cribs rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased risk for overheating or suffocation. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be surrounded by pillows, blankets or sheets, which can restrict their breathing and contribute to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be an ideal solution. The crib is close to the parents, which prevents overheating or suffocation of the baby. It can be reached easily to feed the baby at night and also for comforting.
Parents from all over the world were eagerly anticipating the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became popular in 2004. They wanted to test safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement and interest, however, doctors are not yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of a bed for adults.
The main concern is the fact that a parent can roll over the infant, causing suffocation or strangulation. The risk of this is particularly high if a parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or taking drugs during sleep. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are also a possibility.
If you decide to choose a bedside sleeper it is important that you select one that meets all safety standards. The mattress should fit comfortably without gaps and must not be prone to sliding. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the weight limitations and age guidelines for sleepers.
All new bedside beds will be required to meet the new safety standard which was launched in November of 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. Some stores may still offer older models for sale but they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, check that it's in good condition. Make sure that the mechanism that secures the mattress to the parent's bed is robust and doesn't leave a gap. You should also ensure that the mattress fits properly within the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too, so that the baby is unable to wiggle inside and end up in a pocket, or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a better option. They are designed to attach to the sides of a parent's bed, allowing the baby to remain close enough for feeding at night and comforting. This lets parents rest comfortably at the end of the night without having to leave their bed.
Babies who have a separate bedroom are more likely to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and are also at an increased risk of SIDS. Research has proven that babies sleep better when they're close proximity to their parents. You can also react quickly to any problems or reassure your baby to make them feel more comfortable.
Selecting the ideal bassinet or bedside crib for your family will depend on a number of aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. If you share a house with a spouse or if your child will be using the crib as they grow in age, it might be beneficial to choose a convertible crib that can be converted into solitary cribs or toddlers beds. Many of our products have this feature, and we suggest contacting us for more information.
The bedside crib fosters bonding between the mother and baby. It's a convenient and safe choice for new parents who are tired. Research has shown that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed more frequently when their baby is near and this leads to an even stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.
This is why a bedside cot has become so well-liked and is a great choice for any new mum who wants to keep their baby close. But, prior to purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to ensure that it is in compliance with all the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It is also important to take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.