Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that is attached to the mattress's side which lets you reach your baby during the middle of the night. This type of co-sleeping is suggested by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close by without being at risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a crucial parenting choice. Many parents are concerned that sleeping with their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. Co-sleeping is sharing a sleeping space that can increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cot co sleepers are designed to provide a safe place to rest between bed sharing and separate sleeping areas, allowing a parent to reach over their child and easily to comfort or nurse them without leaving the security of their bed.
It is crucial to feed and soothe your baby regularly. However, tired parents might find it difficult to get up from their bed to feed their child. The bedside co sleeper allows parents to keep their infant close to them and not have to leave their bed. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to zip down and turn the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an additional layer of protection, making it easy for parents who are tired to watch their newborn while remaining in the bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the risk of SIDS increases when a parent smokes (even with a co-sleeper) and also if alcohol or other drugs are consumed, even in small amounts. Co-sleeping with children is not recommended in the event of a parent with an 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 method to make sure this is done.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs rather than share your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets, which could obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib that is placed near the bed is a fantastic solution. The crib is located close to the parents, which prevents overheating or suffocation of the baby. It can be easily accessible to feed the baby at night and also for comforting.
Parents around the world were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became viral in 2004. They wanted to try safe cosleeping. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement, however, doctors are not yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of an adult bed.
The primary concern is that a parent may accidentally roll over an infant, causing strangulation or death. This is especially true if the parent is sleeping while smoking, drinking or taking drugs. Other dangers include overheating, the risk of falling and the risk of a maternal death during pregnancy or after childbirth.
If you decide to choose a bedside sleeper it is essential to choose one that is in compliance with all safety standards. The mattress must fit snugly without gaps and shouldn't be prone to sliding. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to comply with a new safety standard that was announced in November of 2020 and replaces previous standards. Some stores might still have older models on sale however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers make the switch to the new standards.
If you decide to purchase a used model, make sure it's in good condition. Verify that the mechanism used to fix the bed on the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, make bedside cot newborn that the mattress fits inside the sleeper properly without any bulges or gaps. The sheets must also fit comfortably so that the baby won't get into a pocket, and become stuck or suffocate.
Convenience
Many new parents feel the natural desire to be by their baby's bed at night, but experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer option. They are made to be attached to the sides of parents' bed, keeping baby within easy reach for night time feeding and relaxing. This allows parents to sleep well at night without leaving their bed.
Babies who sleep in separate rooms are more likely to experience pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are more prone to SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are near their parents. Having your baby in a co-sleeper means that you can quickly respond to any problems and reassure them, so they are more comfortable.
Selecting the ideal bassinet or bedside crib for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including your living environment and long-term plans. For instance, if you live with a partner or household member who might also wish to use your bedside crib then it might be best to look at convertible options that can be converted into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child develops. We suggest contacting us to inquire about this option.
In addition to being a safe and convenient choice for new parents, the most significant benefit of a bedside crib is the fact that it fosters bonding between baby and mother. Studies have shown breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse longer when their baby is close. This creates a stronger attachment between the two.
A bedside cot could be a great option for new mothers who want to keep their baby close to them. When buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper, you need to make sure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. You should also consider your budget, as there are numerous options to choose from.