Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that is attached to the side of your mattress which lets you reach your baby during the middle of the night. This kind of co-sleeping is suggested by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it lets you keep your baby close by without being at risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a vital parenting decision. Although some parents are worried about the possibility that sleeping close to their infant will increase the risk of SIDS, studies like those conducted by NHS suggest contrary. It is important to keep in mind that co-sleeping requires sharing the same sleep surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS if it's not done so in a safe manner. Co-sleeping beds in cots have been designed to provide a safe place to rest between bed sharing and separate sleeping surfaces that allow parents 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 reassured frequently However, exhausted parents may be unable to leave their beds to feed or comfort them. A bedside cot co sleeper allows parents to keep their infant at arm's length and avoid having to leave their comfy bed. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to slide down and transform the crib into a cradle, providing an extra layer of security which makes it easier for parents who are exhausted to keep an eye on their baby while still in their bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has an history of sleeping through the night. The NHS recommends ensuring that young babies are always put to sleep on their backs in order to minimize the chance of rolling and the risk of suffocation. The safest option is to use a bedside cot, bassinet or cradle.
Safety
The NHS suggests that babies sleep in their own cribs rather than sharing your bed. This is because of the higher risk of overheating or suffocation. When a baby is in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets. This can cause SIDS. A crib for bed is a great solution. The crib is located close to the parents, preventing overheating or suffocation of the baby. It can still be easily reached to feed the baby at night and also for soothing.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first went viral in 2014 parents from all over the world were eager to acquire one to test the safest co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the excitement and enthusiasm however, doctors are not yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of a bed for adults.
The primary concern is that a parent can roll on the infant and cause strangulation or suffocation. This is particularly true when the parent is asleep while drinking, smoking or using drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are other risks.
If you choose to opt for a bedside sleeper, it is essential that you choose a model that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and be prone sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limitations and age recommendations for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to comply with the new safety standard which was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the previous standards. There may be 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. Make sure that the mechanism that is used to anchor the bed to the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits into the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. The sheets should be snug enough that the baby won't get into a pocket and become trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib or bassinet is a safer option. They are made to be attached to the sides of a parent's bed, keeping baby close enough for feeding at night and relaxing. This means exhausted parents do not have to leave their bed at night, and they can keep a close eye on their child while getting a good night's rest.
Babies sleeping in a separate room are more likely to suffer from breathing pauses (apnoea) and are more at risk of SIDS. According to research babies sleep better when they are close to their parents. The fact that your child is a co-sleeper also means that you can quickly respond to any problems and reassure them, so they feel more at ease.
Selecting the ideal bedside crib or bassinet for your family will depend on a number of aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. For example, if you have a partner or household member who may wish to use your bedside crib, it could be a good idea to consider convertible options that can grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. We recommend that you contact us to find out more about this option.
The bedside crib helps foster bonding between the baby and mother. It's a practical and safe option for new parents who are tired. Studies have shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to feed longer when their baby is near, which in turn results in an increased and secure 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, you must check that it complies with all the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. Also, bedside crib that turns into cot should take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.