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 during the night. This kind of co-sleeping has been recommended by the Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting decision. Some parents are concerned that sleeping with their baby increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those conducted by NHS suggest the reverse. Co-sleeping is sharing the same sleeping surface which could increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots with co sleepers are designed to provide a safe middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas which allows parents to hold their child and gently to comfort or nurse them without leaving the safety of their own bed.
It is important to feed and reassure your baby regularly. However, parents who are tired may find it difficult to get up from their bed to feed their child. The bedside sleeper gives parents the option to keep 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 cot into a cradle with an additional layer of protection that allows parents who are tired to keep an eye on their infant while they are in the bed.
Even small amounts of alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has a history of snoring. The NHS suggests that young babies are always sleeping on their back to minimise the risk of accidental rolling and the risk of suffocation. A bedside cot or bassinet is the most secure way to ensure this.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies be placed in their own cribs instead of having to sharing your bed. This is due to the higher risk of suffocation and overheating. Babies who sleep with their parents are more likely covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This could lead to SIDS. A bedside crib can be an ideal solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the child isn't being suffocated, or overheated, while being accessible for night-time feedings and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first went viral four years ago, parents around the world were eager to get their hands on one to test the safest co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the excitement and enthusiasm, doctors aren't yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of an adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent could roll onto an infant and cause strangulation or suffocation. This is especially the case when the parent is asleep while drinking, smoking or using a drug. Other risks include overheating, the risk of falling and the risk of a maternal death during pregnancy and after childbirth.
If you decide to opt for a bedside sleeper, it's crucial to select one that meets the highest safety standards. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and be prone to sagging. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the weight limits and age-related recommendations for sleepers.
All new bedside beds must comply with a new safety standard that was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the old standards. There are still older models for sale in some shops but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a used model, ensure that it is in good condition. Verify that bedside crib co sleeper that secures the bed to the parent's bed is strong and does not leave a gap. You should also ensure that the mattress is placed in the sleeper without gaps or bulges. Sheets should also fit snugly to ensure that the baby is unable to wiggle inside and become trapped in a pocket, or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Many new parents feel the natural desire to be at their baby's bed at night, but sleep experts like Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib is a better option. These cribs are made to be attached directly to the bed of the parent to allow the baby to be easily reached for feeding and sleeping. This allows parents to sleep well at the end of the night without having to leave their bed.
Children who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely to have breathing pauses (apnoea), and also are at an increased risk of SIDS. According to research that babies sleep better when they are with their parents. Being a co-sleeper also means that you are able to swiftly respond to any problems and soothe them, so they feel more at ease.
Choosing bedside crib travel or bedside crib for your family will depend on a few factors, including living situation and long-term plans. If you share a home with a partner, or if your child will be using the crib as he grows in age, it might be beneficial to choose a convertible crib that can transform into a solitary crib or toddler beds. A lot of our cribs have this option, and we suggest contacting us for more information.
The bedside crib helps foster bonding with the baby and mother. It's a convenient and safe option for parents who are exhausted. Research has shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to nurse longer when their baby is close. This results in an increased bond between the two.
A bedside cot is an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their baby nearby. But, prior to purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to make sure that it meets all of the safe sleeping and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It is also important to take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.