Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?

A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that is attached to the mattress's side, which allows you to be able to reach your baby during the middle of night. This kind of co-sleeping has been recommended by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it lets you keep your baby close without the risk of SIDS.

Peace of Mind

Co-sleeping is a vital parenting choice. Some parents worry that sleeping close to their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. Co-sleeping is sharing a bed, which can increase the risk for SIDS. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide a safe middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas that allow parents to be able to reach out over their child and gently soothe them without leaving the security of their bed.

Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed frequently however exhausted parents might be unable to leave their beds to feed or soothe them. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option of keeping their infant close to them and not need to leave their comfortable bedding. Some co sleepers have an innovative design, such as the SnuzPod. The four walls can be zipped down to convert the cot into a cradle, giving an extra layer of safety. This allows parents who are exhausted to be able to watch their babies while still lying in bed.

Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs could increase the risk of SIDS. It's also not recommended to co-sleep with a baby if either the mother or father have an history of having a snore. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs to reduce the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. The safest option is to use a 4-in-1 bedside crib cot or bassinet.

Safety

While co-sleeping is widely practiced in a variety of countries However, the NHS advises that infants should be in their own cots rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the increased risk of overheating and suffocation. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets, which may restrict their breathing and contribute to SIDS. This is why a bedside cot used crib is an ideal solution. The crib is near the parents, which prevents suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can be easily accessible to feed the baby at night and also for providing comfort.

Parents across the globe were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first went viral in 2004. They wanted to test safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement doctors do not support the idea of a sleeping bed that is attached to the side of a adult bed.

The primary issue is that a parent can roll over the infant, causing suffocation or strangulation. The risk of this happening is particularly high if a parent smokes, drinks alcohol or taking drugs during sleep. Other dangers include overheating, the risk of a fall and the possibility of maternal death during pregnancy or after the birth of the child.

If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it's vital to choose a model that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress must be fitted without gaps and not be prone sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age-related recommendations for sleepers.

All new bedside sleepers will be required to meet the new safety standard, which was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. You may still see older models available for sale in a few stores however, they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers transition to the new safety standards.

Before you buy a used model, ensure that it is in good shape. Make sure the mechanism used to secure the mattress to the parent's bed is sturdy and does not leave a gap, and that the mattress fits properly in the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. The sheets must also be snug enough that the baby won't get into a pocket and get stuck or suffocate.

Convenience

Many new parents experience the natural desire to be at their baby's side at night, however experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib or bassinet is a safer alternative. They are made to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, allowing the baby to remain within easy reach for night time feeding and relaxing. This allows parents to rest comfortably at night without leaving their bed.

Babies who sleep in a separate space are more likely to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and are more prone to SIDS. According to research that babies sleep better when they are near their parents. Being co-sleeping also allows you to quickly respond to any problems and calm them, which means they will be more relaxed.

Selecting the ideal bedside crib or bassinet for your family will be contingent on a number of factors, including living situation and long-term plans. For instance, if are living with a spouse or household member who may want to use the bedside crib that turns into cot crib, it could be best to look at convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. We recommend that you contact us to find out more about this option.

Apart from being a secure and practical option for exhausted new parents, the most significant advantage of the bedside cots for newborns crib is the fact that it fosters bonding between baby and mother. Studies have shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to breastfeed more frequently when their baby is near, which in turn results in an even stronger and more secure bond between them.

A bedside cot can be an ideal option for new mothers who wish to keep their child close. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper, you must check that it complies with all the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. You should also be aware of your budget, since there are many options available.