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 lets you reach your baby during 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 without the risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good option for parents. Although some parents are concerned about the possibility that sleeping close to their baby increases the risk of SIDS, studies like those conducted by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. Co-sleeping refers to sharing the same sleeping surface that can increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cot co sleepers have been designed to provide a safe space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces which allows parents to be able to reach out over their child and easily nurse or comfort them, without leaving the comfort of their bed.
It is crucial to feed and reassure your baby regularly. However, parents who are exhausted might find it difficult to get up from their bed to do so. The bedside sleeper gives parents the option of keeping their baby close and not need to leave their comfy bed. Some co sleepers come with an innovative design, like the SnuzPod. The four walls can be zipped down to transform the cot into a cradle, giving an extra layer of safety. This allows parents who are exhausted to watch their newborns while lying in bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or other 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 that babies sleep on their backs in order to minimize the risk of suffocation as well as accidental rolling. The safest choice is to use a bedside cot, bassinet or cradle.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs, rather than share your bed. This is due to the higher chance of suffocation and heat. Babies who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can cause SIDS. This is why a bedside crib is such a great solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the child is not being suffocated or overheated. Moreover, the baby is capable of being easily reached to feed at night and be comforted.
When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first became viral in 2014 parents across the globe were eager to acquire one to try out safe co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the excitement doctors don't support the idea of a bed that connects to the side of an adult bed.
The most significant issue is that a parent can roll over the infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. The risk of this happening is particularly high if the parent smokes, drinks alcohol or using drugs while asleep. Other dangers include overheating, the risk of falling, and the risk of maternal death during pregnancy and following the birth of a child.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select one that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and not be prone to sagging. You should also be familiar with the recommended weight and age for the person sleeping.
All new bedside sleepers must be compliant with the new safety standard which was announced in November of 2020 and replaces the previous standards. There may be older models for sale in a few stores, but these are gradually disappearing as manufacturers make the transition to the new safety standards.
If you decide to buy a second-hand mattress be sure it is in good shape before purchasing it. Verify that bedside crib that turns into cot that is used to anchor the bed on the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits in the sleeper with no bulges or gaps. Sheets should fit snugly too in order that the child cannot wriggle down inside and become trapped in a pocket, or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Many new parents experience an instinctual desire to be by their baby's side at night, however sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet is a better option. They are made to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, allowing baby to be close enough to feed at night and comforting. This means that exhausted parents do not have to leave their bed at night, and they can keep a close watch on their child while still getting a goodnight's sleep.
Babies who have separate bedrooms are more likely than others to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea), and are also at a higher risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they're close proximity to their parents. You can also react quickly to any issue or concern your baby, making them more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet crib for your family will depend on several aspects, including the existing situation and plans for the future. For instance, if you live with a partner or household member who might also prefer to use the bedside crib then it might be a good idea to consider convertible options that can be converted into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child grows up. A lot of our cribs have this feature, and we recommend contacting us for more information.
Apart from being a secure and convenient option for tired new parents, the main benefit of a bedside crib is that it encourages bonding between mother and child. Research has shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to nurse longer when their baby is close. This results in greater bonding between the two.
A bedside cot can be an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their infant nearby. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper it is important to check that it complies with all of the safe sleeping and Lullaby Trust guidelines. Also, you should consider your budget, as there are many options available.