Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper consists of a bassinet welded to the side of your mattress that allows you to reach your baby during the middle of the night. This type of co-sleeping is recommended by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close without the risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good parenting option. Although some parents are worried about the possibility that sleeping close to their baby could increase the risk of SIDS, studies like those conducted by NHS suggest otherwise. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a bed that can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping beds in cots have been designed to offer a safe place to rest between bed sharing and separate sleeping surfaces which allows parents to hold their child and effortlessly soothe them without leaving the security of their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured frequently however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their bed to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot co-sleeper allows parents to keep their baby at a distance and avoid having to leave their comfortable bedding. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to zip down and turn the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an additional layer of protection which makes it easier for tired parents to watch their infant while they are in the bed.
Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has a history of snoring. The NHS recommends that babies rest on their backs to reduce the risk of suffocation and accidental rolling. The most secure option is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet, or cradle.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies be placed in their own cribs rather than share your bed. This is due to the increased risk of overheating and suffocation. Children who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which may restrict their breathing and contribute to SIDS. A bedside crib can be a great solution. The crib is near the parents, which prevents overheating or suffocation of the baby. It can be easily reached for feedings at night and for providing comfort.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became viral in 2014 parents across the globe were eager to get their hands on one to experience safe co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the excitement doctors do not agree with the idea of a sleeping bed that attaches to the side of an adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent may roll onto an infant and cause strangulation or the child to suffocate. The risk of this is particularly high if a parent smokes, drinks alcohol or using drugs while asleep. Other dangers include overheating, the possibility of falling, and the possibility of maternal death during pregnancy or after childbirth.
If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it's vital to choose a model that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and be prone to sagging. It is also important to be familiar with the recommended weight and age for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to be compliant with the new safety standard that was announced in November of 2020 and replaces the previous standards. Some stores may have older models on sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you opt for a second-hand mattress ensure that it is in good shape before purchasing it. Check that the mechanism that holds the mattress to the parent's bed is sturdy and doesn't leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress fits 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 like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer option. They are made to be attached to the sides of a parent's bed, allowing the baby to remain in reach to feed at night and providing comfort. Parents can rest comfortably at night without leaving their bed.
Children who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely than others to experience pauses in their breathing (apnoea) and also are at an increased risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are with their parents. Being co-sleeping also means that you are able to swiftly respond to any issue and soothe them, so they feel more at ease.
Selecting the ideal bassinet or bedside crib for your family will be contingent on a few factors, including your living environment and long-term plans. For instance, if live with a partner or household member who might also prefer to use the bedside crib, it may be beneficial to consider convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. A lot of our cribs have this feature, and we suggest getting in touch with us for more information.
The bedside crib fosters bonding between the mother and baby. It is a convenient and safe choice for new parents who are tired. Studies have proven that breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse for longer if their baby is close. This leads to an increased bond between the two.
A bedside cot is a great option for new mothers who want to keep their infant close. When purchasing bedside crib with changing table or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth assessing what your budget is since there are options at all price levels.