Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that can be attached to the bed's side and allows you to reach for baby in the middle of the night. This kind of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great parenting option. Many parents are concerned that sleeping next to their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those published by NHS suggest the opposite. It is important to keep in mind that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleep surface and can therefore increase the risk of SIDS if it's not executed in a proper manner. Bedside cots with co sleepers are designed to provide a secure middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas which allows parents to hold their child and easily to comfort or nurse them, without leaving the comfort of their bed.
It is important to feed and soothe your baby regularly. However, parents who are exhausted might find it difficult to get out of their bed to feed their child. The bedside co sleeper allows parents to keep their baby close and not leave their bed. The unique design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to slide down and turn the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of security, making it easy for tired parents to keep an eye on their infant while they are in their bed.
Even small amounts of alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. It's also not a good idea to co-sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has a history of having a snore. The NHS recommends ensuring that young babies are always put to sleep on their back to minimise the risk of accidental rolling and death. A bedside cot or bassinet is the most secure method to make sure this is done.
Safety
While co-sleeping is a common practice in many countries, the NHS recommends that infants sleep in their own cribs rather than sharing a bed. This is because of the higher risk of suffocation or overheating. Babies in bed with parents are more likely to be surrounded by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which could hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is a fantastic solution. The crib is near the parents, which prevents overheating or suffocation of the baby. It can still be easily accessible for nighttime feedings and soothing.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became viral in 2014 parents across the globe were eager to acquire one to test the safest co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the excitement doctors don't believe in a bed that connects to the side of an adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent could roll over the infant, causing suffocation or strangulation. This is particularly true if the parent is sleeping while drinking, smoking or taking drugs. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are other 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 be susceptible to sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limitations and age guidelines for sleepers.
All new bedside beds must comply with the new safety standard that was announced in November of 2020 and replaces the previous standards. Some stores may still have older models on sale however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you opt for a second-hand model be sure it is in good working order prior to purchasing it. Make sure the mechanism used to secure the mattress to the parent's bed is sturdy and doesn't leave a gap. You should also ensure that the mattress fits properly inside the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too, so that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and become trapped in a pocket or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer choice. They are designed to be attached to the sides of parents' bed, allowing baby to be in reach for feeding at night and relaxing. This means exhausted parents do not have to leave their bed at night and can keep an eye on their baby whilst getting a good night's rest.
Babies who have a separate bedroom are more likely than other children to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and are also at higher risk of developing SIDS. According to research that babies sleep better when they are near their parents. Being a co-sleeper also means that you can quickly respond to any problems and reassure them, so they feel more at ease.
bedside crib that turns into cot Cots For Tots for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. For example, if you have a partner or household member who may prefer to use the bedside crib, it could be beneficial to consider convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. Many of our range include this option, and we suggest getting in touch with us for more information.
The bedside crib encourages bonding between the mother and baby. It's a convenient and safe option for parents who are tired. Studies have shown breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse longer when their baby is close. This leads to greater bonding between the two.
This is why a bedside cot has become so popular and is a good choice for any new mum who wants to keep their baby close by. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to make sure that it meets all the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. Also, you should take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.