Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet attached to the side of your mattress that allows you to be able to reach your baby during the middle of night. This kind of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great option for parents. Some parents are concerned that sleeping with their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies like those published by NHS suggest the opposite. It is crucial to remember that co-sleeping requires sharing the same sleep surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS if not carried out correctly. Bedside cot co sleepers have been designed to offer a safe space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas that allow parents to reach over their child and effortlessly soothe them, without leaving the comfort of their own bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and comforted regularly however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their beds in order to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot co-sleeper allows parents to keep their baby at a distance and not have to leave their comfy bed. Some co sleepers have an innovative design, like the SnuzPod. The four walls can be opened to transform the cot into a cradle, providing an extra layer of safety. This allows parents who are exhausted to be able to watch their babies while they sleep.
It is important to keep in mind that the chance of SIDS is increased when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and also if alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small amounts. It's not recommended to sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has an history of having a snore. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of suffocation as well as accidental rolling. A bedside cot or bassinet is the most secure way to ensure this.
Safety
While co-sleeping is widely practiced in a variety of countries, the NHS advises that infants should be in their own cots instead of sharing a bed. This is due to the higher chance of suffocation and heat. Babies in bed with parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets, which may obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. A crib for bed is a great solution. The crib is close to the parents, preventing suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can be easily reached for feedings at night and for soothing.
Parents across the globe were eagerly anticipating the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first went viral in 2004. They wanted to test safe cosleeping. Despite co sleeper bedside cot , doctors do not fully agree with the idea of a sleeping bed that is attached to the side of a adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent may fall on an infant, causing strangulation or death. This is particularly true when the parent is asleep while drinking, smoking or taking drugs. Falls, overheating and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you choose to go with a bedside sleeper, it is vital to choose one that meets the highest safety standards. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and not be prone sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for sleepers.
All new bedside sleepers have to comply with the new safety standard which was introduced in November of 2020. It replaces the previous standards. Some stores might still have older models on sale however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, make sure it's in good condition. Make sure the mechanism used to secure the bed to the parent's bed is robust and does not leave a gap. You should also ensure that the mattress fits within the sleeper without gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too, so that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and become trapped in a pocket, or be at risk of being suffocated.
Convenience
Sleep experts like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a safer alternative. They are designed to attach to the sides of a parent's bed, allowing baby to be in reach for feeding at night and relaxing. Parents can rest comfortably at the end of the night without having to leave their bed.
Babies sleeping in a separate space are more likely to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and are more at risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are with their parents. You can also quickly respond to any issue or concern your baby, making them more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family is dependent on several factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. If you share a home with a person who is a friend, or if your child is likely to be using the crib as he grows and develops, it is best to pick an adjustable crib that can be converted into solitary cribs or toddler beds. A lot of our cribs have this feature, and we recommend contacting us for more information.
In addition to being a safe and convenient choice for new parents, the primary advantage of the bedside crib is that it promotes bonding between baby and mother. Studies have shown breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse for longer if their infant is close. This creates greater bonding between the two.
A bedside cot is an ideal option for new mothers who want to keep their infant close to them. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper, it is essential to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It is also important to take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.