Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet

When it comes down to newborn sleeping, parents of newborns have many options. Some parents may consider co-sleeping which the AAP warns against because of suffocation risk. Others would like to be able to reach their baby to change diapers or feeds during the night.

A baby bedside co sleeper is an alternative to a crib or bassinet that is attached to the side of the parent's bed for safe, convenient access. The MFM home testers loved the sleek and practical design of this product.

Safety

The foldable bedside crib co-sleeper, also known as a sidecar is a safe option for baby sleep that allows newborns to sleep close to their parents without putting them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's an element of rooming-in, the practice employed in hospitals to help newborns establish a bond with their parents or mom as they learn to self-sooth to sleep. When choosing a sleeping solution parents should weigh the advantages and cons of both bedside co sleepers and standard bassinets.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a baby bedside co sleeper is safety. Choose models with sturdy frames with breathable materials, and no loose parts that could create the risk of choking. A breathable mattress is essential and you should look for models that can be machine-washed for easy cleaning. Also, make sure the mattress is flat and firm with no extra pillows or blankets, since this will reduce the risk of a suffocation accident that could happen accidentally.

Another safety consideration is whether the unit can be easily accessible from the parent's bed. This allows for nighttime feedings and better monitoring of the baby's condition during their sleep. Some bassinets are far enough away from the parents' bed that they require a step in order to get to the sleeping area.

The proximity to parents is a different factor to take into consideration when choosing a bedside co sleeper vs bassinet. Some parents prefer a co-sleeper because of the close physical connection it provides however, others are concerned about the possibility of suffocation and roll-off associated with bed sharing. Some of the highest-rated bedside sleepers, such as the babybay travel cot bedside crib co sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper are designed to remove the concerns by using a wood-slat design that mimics the cribs in which infants were born and a swaddle sack that prevents them from moving about in their sleep.

If you want to co-sleep but aren't sure about the risks, consider an option like the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Cosleeper. This bassinet co-sleeper creates a more secure environment for co-sleeping by affixing directly to your bed. It also features a small barrier that allows you can see your baby and reach him.

Comfort

It's important that your baby sleeps comfortably, no matter what type of sleeper you select. That means ensuring that the crib is firm and level, with no gaps between the mattress and the baby's bed. Some bedside co sleepers use soft padding or soft surfaces that could put your infant at risk of SIDS. We suggest using a mattress protector to avoid any sliding.

The ability to breathe is a further factor to consider. The models we reviewed include mesh sides that are air-tight mesh that allows your baby to breathe while remaining safe. There are other models too, such as the Baby Delight or HALO BassiNest essencetia also provide great ventilation.

A final consideration is whether or not your sleeper includes a tilt feature which is beneficial for babies who have digestive issues or reflux. The best choices we could find, such as the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 offers a slight tilt, which can be beneficial to your little one while minimizing the risk of suffocation and falling.

Some parents prefer a bassinet that is attached to the bed, while others prefer a sleeper connected to the bed. These types of beds are attached directly to the parent's mattress which makes it simple to reach their baby to feed them or to comfort them in the middle of the night. Bedside sleepers can also be used as a co-sleeping technique called rooming-in. This decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, and also encourages parents and infants to be close.

In the end, it's down to each family to determine what's best for them. We hope that this guide will assist you in your search for the ideal baby bedside rocking crib co-sleeper for your baby. No matter if you opt for a bedside sleeper or a standard bassinet be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines, as recommended by the AAP to avoid potential hazards. Good luck!

Design

A baby bedside co sleeper--also known as a sidecar co-sleeper, bassinet or bedside bassinet--is a safe alternative to traditional cribs and allows parents to safely co-sleep with their newborn. It attaches to the sides of a bed for parents and creates an extension of their mattress, where babies can be easily reached for feeding or sleeping. This type of room sharing decreases the risk of SIDS and other risks for infants but can also make it easier to keep baby in sight.

There are a variety of co-sleepers available. It is important to choose one that is suitable for your family's requirements. Some are more feature-rich than others and others are more affordable. Safety is the main priority, no matter which product you select to purchase. Research certifications, reviews and safety concerns for each model you're thinking about.

The top choices for baby bedside co sleepers include the Snoo Smart Sleeper, Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer, and HALO BassiNest Essentia. These models have breathable mesh and minimal stretching of solid fabric to ensure that the baby's sleep surface is comfortable. There are no gaps or compressions that can hinder airflow. The babybay bedside sleep option is another great choice. It is designed similar to a crib, and it can be adjusted in height for the perfect size.

Newborns feel most secure in smaller spaces, and the womb-like nature of a bassinet or co-sleeper can help them sleep better and form a strong bond with their parents. In addition, a bedside sleeper provides the ease of access that many parents require to breast feed or bottle feed their babies at the end of the night without having to get out of the bed. All of the models above come with a sleek and elegant design that will go with any bedroom decor. They're also quick and easy to set up and tidy which makes them a great option for parents who require a simple way to sleep with their baby.

Value

A rocking bedside crib sleeper can be a wonderful method to keep your baby close throughout the night. It can help you build bonds that are stronger and improve the overall development of your child. It can also make it easier to get up to change diapers and feeds and can help you get more sleep as well.

Look for a co-sleeper that can be folded easily and has many functions. There are a few options that can be converted into play yard or a deeper bassinets, as an example. Take into consideration the quality of the sleeping surface as many models are made using polyurethane. You should look for claims that promote eco-health like low VOC and hypoallergenic, or GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certification.

It is also possible to consider your long-term plans, as your baby may need to be moved to an infant crib within the next few months. If you do, a co-sleeper or bassinet could be the best choice, since it allows you to stay close to your infant and makes it easier to transition from sleeping in your bed to the nursery. This type of arrangement also referred to as rooming-in, is believed by some to improve a baby's sensory perception and sleeping habits.