Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the side of your bed which allows you to reach for your baby during the night. This kind of co-sleeping is recommended by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it lets you keep your baby close by without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great option for parents. Some parents are concerned that sleeping close to their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However studies like those conducted by NHS suggest the opposite. But, it's important to remember that co-sleeping requires sharing a single sleeping surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS when not executed in a proper manner. Bedside cots with co sleepers are designed to provide a secure space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces, allowing a parent to hold their child and easily to comfort or nurse them without leaving the safety of their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured frequently however exhausted parents might be unable to leave their beds to feed or comfort their children. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option to keep their baby close and not leave their bed. Some co sleepers feature an innovative design, for instance the SnuzPod. The four walls can be closed to convert the cot into a cradle, providing an additional layer of protection. This allows parents who are exhausted to keep an eye on their infants while lying in bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with children is not recommended if the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS recommends ensuring that babies are sleeping on their back to minimise the chance of rolling and death. A bedside cot or bassinet is the most secure method to ensure this.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies be placed in their own cribs, rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased risk of suffocation and overheating. When bedside crib travel is in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be a great solution. Being close to parents ensures that the baby isn't being suffocated, or overheated, while being able to be easily reached for night-time feedings and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first became viral in 2014 parents from all over 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 completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of a bed for an adult.
The most significant issue is that a parent could fall over the infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. This is especially the case if the parent is sleeping when drinking, smoking or using drugs. Other risks include overheating, the possibility of a fall and the risk of a maternal death during pregnancy and following childbirth.
If you decide to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is vital to choose one that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress must be fitted without gaps and should not be prone sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age guidelines 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. There are still older models on sale in some shops however, they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.
If you opt for an older model be sure it is in good condition before you purchase it. Make sure that the mechanism that holds the mattress to the parent's bed is strong and does not leave a gap, and that the mattress fits properly inside the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. bedside crib travel should be snugly fitted too in order that the child can't squiggle around and end up in a pocket, or be at risk of being suffocated.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet is a safer option. They are designed to attach to the side of a parent's bed, allowing baby to be close enough to feed at night and relaxing. This means exhausted parents don't have to leave their beds during the night, and they can keep a close watch on their child while getting a good night's rest.
Children who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and are also at higher risk of developing SIDS. According to research that babies sleep better when they are close to their parents. You can also respond quickly to any issue or concern your baby, making them more comfortable.
The best bedside bassinet or crib for your family is dependent on many factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. For example, if you live with a partner or household member who might also want to use the bedside crib, it may be a good idea to consider convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child develops. Many of our products have this feature, and we recommend contact us for more details.
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 that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed more frequently when their infant is close, which in turn leads to an increased and secure bond between them.
This is why a bedside cot is so popular and is a good choice for any new mum who would like to keep their baby close by. However, when it comes to purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to ensure that it is in compliance with all of the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. Also, you should be aware of your budget, since there are many options available.