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 and allows you to reach for baby in the middle of 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 risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting decision. Some parents worry that sleeping close to their baby increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those published by NHS suggest the opposite. It is important to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleep surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS if it's not done so in a safe manner. Bedside cot co sleepers have been designed to provide a secure place to rest between bed sharing and separate sleeping areas that allow parents to hold their child and effortlessly soothe them without leaving the safety of their bed.
bedside crib and travel cot sleep best when they are fed and comforted frequently, but exhausted parents can be unable to leave their bed to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot co sleeper lets parents keep their baby at a distance and avoid the need to leave their bed. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to slide down and transform the crib into a cradle, providing an additional layer of protection which makes it easier for tired parents to watch their baby while still in their bed.
Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs could increase the risk of SIDS. It's also not recommended to co-sleep with a baby if the mother or father have an history of having a snore. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs to limit the risk of suffocation as well as accidental rolling. A bassinet or bedside cot is the safest way to make sure this is done.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. Baby's in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can cause SIDS. A bedside crib can be an ideal solution. The close proximity to parents ensures that the baby isn't suffocated or overheated while still being accessible for feedings at night and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first went viral four years ago parents from all over the world were eager to get their hands on one to test the safest co-sleeping with their child. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement doctors aren't yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of an adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent could accidentally roll over an infant, causing strangulation or the child to suffocate. This is especially the case if the parent is sleeping while smoking, drinking or using a drug. Other risks include overheating, the possibility of a fall and the risk of maternal death during pregnancy and following the birth of a child.
If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it's vital to choose one that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress must be fitted without gaps and should not be susceptible to sagging. You should also be familiar with the recommended weight and age of the person sleeping.
All new bedside sleepers have to comply with the new safety standard, which was launched in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. Some stores might still have older models available, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, check that it's in good condition. Check the mechanism used to secure the mattress to the parent's bed is sturdy and does not leave a gap. 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 end up in a pocket, or be at risk of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a safer alternative. These cribs are designed to connect directly to the parent's bed so that the baby can be easily reached for feeding and comforting at night. bedside crib travel cot can rest comfortably at night without having to leave their bed.
Babies who sleep in a separate bedroom are more likely than other children to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and also are at a higher risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are near their parents. Having your baby in co-sleeping also means that you can quickly respond to any issue and soothe them, so they are more comfortable.
The best bedside crib or bassinet for your family will depend on a number of factors, including your living environment and long-term plans. For example, if you are living with a spouse or household member who may wish to use your bedside crib, it could be a good idea to consider convertible options that can grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child develops. Many of our products have this feature, and we recommend getting in touch with us for more information.
In addition to being a safe and convenient option for tired new parents, the primary benefit of a bedside crib is that it promotes bonding between mother and baby. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to feed longer when their baby is close which results in an increased and secure bond between them.
A bedside cot could be an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their infant close. When purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, it is essential to make sure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth assessing what your budget is, because there are options at all prices.