Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper consists of a bassinet welded to the side of your mattress which lets you reach your baby during the middle of the night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great parenting choice. While some parents are concerned that sleeping close to their infant will increase the risk of SIDS, research like those conducted by NHS suggest contrary. However, it's important to keep in mind that co-sleeping is sharing the same sleep surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS when not done so in a safe manner. Bedside cots co-sleepers are designed to be a safe, middle ground between the two sleeping surfaces. They permit parents to reach out and comfort their child without having to leave their bed.
It is essential to feed and soothe your infant regularly. However, tired bedside crib travel might have difficulty to get out of their bed to do so. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option of keeping their infant close to them and not need to leave their comfortable bedding. The innovative design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to zip down and transform the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of security which makes it easier for tired parents to keep an eye on their infant while they are in bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the chance of SIDS is increased when a parent smokes (even with a co-sleeper) and if any alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small amounts. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended if the parent has a history of snoring. The NHS recommends that babies rest on their backs to limit the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. A bassinet or bedside cot is the best 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 increased risk for suffocation or overheating. Children who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which can hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be a great solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the baby isn't suffocated or overheated while still being accessible for feedings at night and comforting.
Parents across the globe were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first went viral in 2004. They wanted to test safe cosleeping. 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 main concern is that a parent could accidentally roll over an infant, causing strangulation or death. The risk of this is especially high if the parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or taking drugs while asleep. Overheating, falling and maternal death are additional risks.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it's essential that you choose one that is in line with the highest safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and shouldn't be prone to sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for sleepers.
All new bedside sleepers have to comply with the new safety standard which was launched in November 2020 and replaces the previous standards. Some stores might still have older models on sale however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, ensure that it is in good shape. Make sure the mechanism used to secure the bed to the parent's bed is strong and doesn't leave a gap, and that the mattress is placed inside the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. The sheets must also fit comfortably so that the baby doesn't slide into a pocket and get trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Many new parents feel the natural desire to be by their baby's bed at night, but sleep experts like Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a safer option. These cribs are made to be attached directly to the parent's bed so that baby can be easily reached for feeding or resting at night. This means that exhausted parents don't have to leave their own beds during the night, and they can keep a close eye on their child while getting a good night's rest.
Babies sleeping in separate rooms are more likely to experience pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. According to research babies sleep better when they are near their parents. You can also respond quickly to any problems or reassure your baby, making them more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family depends on many factors, including your existing situation and plans for the future. If you share a house with a person who is a friend, or if your child is likely to be using the crib as they grow, it may be best to select a convertible crib that can be converted into solitary cribs or toddler beds. A lot of our cribs have this feature, and we suggest contacting us for more information.
Aside from being a safe and practical option for exhausted new parents, the most significant benefit of a crib that is placed near the bed is the fact that it fosters bonding between mother and baby. Research has shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to breastfeed longer when their baby is close which creates an even stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.
bedside cot co sleeper can be an excellent option for mothers who wish to keep their child close. But, prior to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to ensure that it is in compliance with all the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. Also, you should be aware of your budget, since there are many options available.