Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper cot is a bassinet which attaches to the side of your bed and allows you to reach for baby in the middle of the night. This type of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS as well as the Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a vital parenting choice. Although some parents are concerned that sleeping close to their infant will increase the risk of SIDS, studies like those conducted by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a sleeping space that can increase the risk for SIDS. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide an appropriate place to rest between bed sharing and separate sleeping areas that allow parents to hold their child and gently to comfort or nurse them without leaving the safety of their own bed.
It is crucial to feed and reassure your baby regularly. However, tired parents may find it difficult to get up from their bed to do so. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option of keeping their baby close and not have to leave their bed. The innovative design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to zip down and turn the crib into a cradle, providing an extra layer of security, making it easy for parents who are tired to watch their infant while they are in the bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the risk of SIDS is increased when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and also if alcohol or drugs are consumed even in small amounts. It's also not recommended to sleep with a baby if the mother or father have a history of snoring. The NHS suggests that young babies are always placed to sleep on their back to minimise the risk of accidental rolling and the risk of suffocation. The most secure option is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet.
Safety
While co-sleeping is widely practiced in many countries however, the NHS suggests that infants sleep in their own cribs rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the increased risk for suffocation or overheating. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which can hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib that is placed near the bed is an ideal solution. The crib is close to the parents, preventing suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can be easily accessible to feed the baby at night and also for providing comfort.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first went viral in 2014 parents across the globe were eager to own one to try out safe co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement however, doctors are not yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for an adult.
The primary concern is that a parent could roll over the infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. This is especially the case in the case of a parent who is asleep while drinking, smoking or using drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper it is crucial to select one that is in compliance with all safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be prone sagging. Also, you should be aware of the recommended weight and age of the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers be required to conform to the new safety standard, which was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. There are still older models available for sale in a few stores however, they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.
If you decide to buy a second-hand model ensure that it is in good working order before you purchase it. Make sure that the mechanism used to fix the bed on the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper properly without any gaps or bulges. bedside crib that turns into cot should be snugly fitted too in order that the child is unable to wiggle inside and get stuck in a pocket or be at risk of suffocation.
Convenience
Many new parents experience a natural urge to be at their baby's side at night, but experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer option. These cribs are designed to attach directly to the parent's bed to allow the baby to be easily accessible for feeding and resting at night. Parents can rest peacefully at night without having to leave their bed.
Children who sleep in separate rooms are more likely to suffer pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are more prone to SIDS. Research has proven that babies sleep better when they're close to their parents. You can also respond quickly to any issues or concerns, or even reassure your baby and make them feel more at ease.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family will depend on a variety of aspects, including the existing situation and plans for the future. If you share a house with a partner or if your child will be using the crib as they grow and develops, it is best to select an adjustable crib that can transform into a solitary crib or toddlers beds. bedside cot wooden of our products have this option, and we suggest contact us for more details.
Aside from being a safe and practical option for exhausted new parents, the main benefit of a bedside crib is that it encourages bonding between mother and child. Research has shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to breastfeed longer when their infant is close, which in turn leads to an even stronger and more secure bond between them.
A bedside cot could be a great option for new mothers who wish to keep their child nearby. But, prior to purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, you must check that it complies with all of the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It's also worth assessing the cost of your purchase, since there are options at all price levels.