Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that attaches to the side of your bed, allowing you to reach out for your baby in the middle of the night. This kind of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS as well as the Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close, without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting choice. Although some parents are concerned about the possibility that sleeping close to their infant will increase the risk of SIDS, research like those published by NHS suggest otherwise. However, it's important to keep in mind that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleeping surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS when not executed in a proper manner. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide a secure space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas that allow parents to be able to reach out over their child and gently nurse or comfort them without leaving the security of their bed.
It is essential to feed and soothe your baby frequently. However, tired parents might have difficulty to get up from their bed to feed their child. The bedside sleeper gives parents the option of keeping their infant close to them and not have to leave their comfy bed. The unique design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to slide down and turn the crib into a cradle, providing an additional layer of protection that allows parents who are tired to keep an eye on their baby while still in the bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with children is not recommended when the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS recommends ensuring that infants are sleeping on their backs in order to minimize the risk of accidental rolling and death. The safest option is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs instead of having to share your bed. This is due to the higher risk of suffocation and overheating. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets, which may obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. A bedside crib can be a great solution. The close proximity to parents will ensure that the child is not being suffocated or overheated while still being capable of being easily reached for night-time feedings and comforting.
Parents from all over the world were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became viral in 2004. They wanted to try safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement and interest, however, doctors are not yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of a bed for an adult.
The main concern is that a parent could accidentally roll over an infant and cause strangulation or death. The risk of this happening is particularly high if a parent is drinking, smoking, alcohol or using drugs while asleep. Overheating, falling and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you decide to choose a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select one that is in compliance with all safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and must not be prone to sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for sleepers.
All new bedside sleepers must comply with a new safety standard that was announced in November of 2020 and replaces previous standards. Some stores might still offer older models for sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.
If you opt for a second-hand model ensure that it is in good shape before you purchase it. Verify that the mechanism that secures the mattress to the parent's bed is robust and doesn't leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress fits properly within the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too to ensure that the baby is unable to wiggle inside and end up in a pocket or be at risk of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a safer 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. bedside crib to cot allows parents to rest peacefully at night without having to leave their bed.
Babies who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely than others to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and also are at an increased risk of SIDS. Research has shown that babies sleep better when they're in close to their parents. The fact that your child is a co-sleeper also means that you are able to swiftly respond to any problems and soothe them, so they are more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family is dependent on a variety of aspects, including the existing situation and plans for the future. If you share a home 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 grow into solitary cribs or toddler beds. A lot of our cribs have this feature, and we recommend contact us for more details.
The bedside crib encourages bonding between the mother and baby. It's a practical and safe option for new parents who are exhausted. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to feed longer when their baby is near which creates an even stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.
This is why a bedside cot has become so well-liked and is a great choice for any new mum who wants to keep their baby close by. But, prior to buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper, you must ensure that it is in compliance with all of the safe sleeping and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It's also worth assessing what your budget is, since there are options at all price levels.