Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that can be attached to the side of your bed which allows you to reach for your baby during the night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS as well as the Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good option for parents. Although some parents are worried about the possibility that sleeping close to their child increases the risk of SIDS, studies like those published by NHS suggest otherwise. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing the same sleeping surface which could increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots co-sleepers are designed to be a safe, middle ground between beds that share and separate sleeping surfaces. They allow parents to reach over and soothe their child without leaving their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and comforted regularly however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their bed to feed or comfort them. A bedside cot co sleeper allows parents to keep their infant at arm's length and avoid having to leave their bed. The unique design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to zip down and transform the crib into a cradle, providing an extra layer of protection, making it easy for parents who are exhausted to watch their baby while still in bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the chance of SIDS increases when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and when drinks or substances are consumed, even in small amounts. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has a history of sleeping through the night. The NHS recommends that babies sleep on their backs to limit the risk of suffocation as well as accidental rolling. The most secure option is to use a bedside cot or bassinet.
Safety
The NHS suggests that babies sleep in their own cribs rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. Children who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets, which may restrict their breathing and contribute to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be a great solution. The close proximity to parents ensures that the baby is not being suffocated or overheated, while being accessible for feedings at night and comforting.
Parents around the world were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became viral in 2004. They wanted to try safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement doctors do not support the idea of a sleeping bed that is attached to the side of an adult bed.
The most significant concern is that a parent could roll onto the infant and cause strangulation or the child to suffocate. The risk of this happening is especially high if the parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or taking drugs during sleep. Falls, overheating and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select one that is in line with the highest safety standards. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and not be prone to sagging. It is also important to be aware of the recommended weight and the age of the person sleeping.
All new bedside beds must conform to the new safety standard which was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the old standards. Some stores might still offer older models for sale but they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.
Before you buy a used model, make sure it's in good condition. Make sure that the mechanism that holds the mattress to the parent's bed is strong and doesn't leave a gap, and that the mattress fits in the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should also fit snugly, so that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and become trapped in a pocket, or be at risk of being suffocated.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib or bassinet is a better option. They are made to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, allowing baby to be close enough for feeding at night and providing comfort. This means exhausted parents aren't forced to leave their bed at night, and they can keep an eye on their child while still sleeping well.
cot bedside who sleep in a separate space are more likely to suffer pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are close to their parents. Having your baby in a co-sleeper also allows you to quickly respond to any issue and reassure them, so they feel more at ease.
The best bedside bassinet or crib for your family will depend on many factors, such as the existing situation and plans for the future. For instance, if are living with a spouse or housemate who may also want to use the bedside crib, it could be beneficial to consider convertible options that will grow into standalone cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. Many of our range include this feature, and we suggest getting in touch with us for more information.
In addition to being a safe and convenient choice for new parents, the primary benefit of a bedside crib is that it promotes bonding between mother and baby. Studies have proven that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed more frequently when their baby is close which creates a stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.
A bedside cot could be an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their baby close. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to ensure that it is in compliance with all of the safe sleeping and Lullaby Trust guidelines. Also, you should take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.