Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that can be attached to the side of your bed, allowing you to reach out for your baby during the night. This type of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good option for parents. Although some parents are worried about the possibility that sleeping close to their child could increase the risk of SIDS, research like those published by NHS suggest otherwise. Co-sleeping is sharing the same sleeping surface which could increase the risk for SIDS. Bedside cot co sleepers have been designed to offer a safe middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas, allowing a parent to be able to reach out over their child and easily to comfort or nurse them without leaving the security of their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and comforted regularly however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their beds in order to feed or soothe them. A bedside cot co-sleeper lets parents keep their baby at a distance and avoid having to leave their bed. The unique design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to zip down and transform the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an extra layer of security, making it easy for parents who are tired to watch their newborn while remaining in bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases when smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small amounts. It's not a good idea to co-sleep with a baby if the father or mother has a history of snoring. The NHS recommends that babies rest on their backs to reduce the risk of suffocation and accidental rolling. The safest choice is to use a bedside cot, bassinet or cradle.
Safety
While co-sleeping is widely practiced in many countries, the NHS advises that infants should be in their own cots rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the higher risk of suffocation or overheating. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets, which could obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is an ideal solution. The crib is near the parents, which prevents suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can still be easily reached for feedings at night and for providing comfort.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became to the internet four years ago parents across the globe were eager to acquire one to test the safest co-sleeping with their child. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement doctors aren't yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of a bed for an adult.
The main issue is that a parent can roll onto the infant and cause suffocation or strangulation. This is especially true in the case of a parent who is asleep while drinking, smoking or using drugs. Other dangers include overheating, the possibility of falling and the risk of maternal death during pregnancy or after childbirth.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and should not be susceptible to sagging. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and age of the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to conform to the new safety standard which was introduced in November 2020 and replaces the previous standards. Some stores may still offer older models for sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you opt for an older model ensure that it is in good working order prior to purchasing it. Make sure that the mechanism used to secure the bed on the mattress of the parent is sturdy and does not leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. Sheets should also fit snugly, so that the baby can't squiggle around and end up in a pocket, or be at risk of being suffocated.
Convenience
Many new parents experience a natural urge to be by their baby's bed at night, but sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. bedside cosleeper or bedside crib can be a safer choice. They are designed to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, keeping baby in reach to feed at night and providing comfort. This means that exhausted parents do not have to leave their own bed at night, and they can keep a close eye on their baby whilst still sleeping well.
Babies who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely than others to experience pauses in their breathing (apnoea) and also are at a higher risk of SIDS. Research has proven that babies sleep better when they're close to their parents. Having your baby in a co-sleeper means that you are able to swiftly respond to any issue and calm them, which means they are more comfortable.
Choosing the best bedside crib or bassinet for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including living situation and long-term plans. If you share a house with a partner or if your child will be using the crib as they grow in age, it might be beneficial to choose an adjustable crib that can grow into solitary cribs or toddler beds. Many of our products have this feature, and we recommend contacting us for more information.
In addition to being a safe and convenient option for tired new parents, the most significant benefit of a bedside crib is that it promotes bonding between mother and child. Studies have proven that mothers who breastfeed tend to feed longer when their baby is close, which in turn leads to a stronger and more secure bond between the two.
A bedside cot could be an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their baby close. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to ensure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. Also, you should take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.