Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper consists of a bassinet welded to the side of your mattress which lets you be able to reach your baby during the middle of night. This type of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS as well as the Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an excellent parenting option. While some parents are concerned that sleeping in close proximity to their child will increase the risk of SIDS, studies like those conducted by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. But, it's crucial to remember that co-sleeping is sharing the same sleeping surface and can therefore increase the risk of SIDS if not done so in a safe manner. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide an appropriate middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces, allowing a parent to hold their child and easily nurse or comfort them without leaving the safety of their own bed.
It is important to feed and reassure your infant regularly. However, parents who are tired might have difficulty to get out of their beds to feed their baby. A bedside cot co-sleeper allows parents to keep their infant at arm's length and not have to leave their comfortable bedding. The unique design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to slide down and transform the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of security which makes it easier for tired parents to keep an eye on their newborn while remaining in bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the chance of SIDS is increased when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small quantities. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs to limit the risk of suffocation as well as accidental rolling. The safest option is to utilize a cot at the bedside, bassinet or cradle.
Safety
While co-sleeping is commonly practiced in many countries however, the NHS recommends that infants sleep in their own cot rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the increased 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 could lead to SIDS. A crib for bed is an ideal solution. The close proximity to parents will ensure that the baby isn't suffocated or overheated. Moreover, the baby is able to be easily reached for feedings at night and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became viral in 2014 parents across the globe were eager to own one to test the safest co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement, however, doctors are not yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for adults.
The main concern is that a parent can roll onto the infant and cause suffocation or strangulation. This is particularly true when the parent is asleep when drinking, smoking or using a drug. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are also a possibility.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it's essential that you choose a model that meets the highest safety standards. The mattress should fit comfortably without gaps and should not be susceptible to sliding. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and age of the person sleeping.
All new bedside sleepers will be required to conform to the new safety standard, which was introduced in November of 2020. It replaces the previous standards. You may still see older models on sale in a few stores, but these are gradually disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, ensure that it is in good condition. Make sure that the mechanism that holds the mattress to the parent's bed is robust and doesn't leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress fits properly inside the sleeper with no any gaps or bulges. Sheets should also fit snugly in order that the child can't squiggle around and end up in a pocket or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. travel cot bedside or bedside crib can be a safer option. These cribs are designed to connect directly to the parent's bed to allow the baby to be easily reached for feeding or comforting at night. Parents can rest comfortably at night without leaving their bed.
Babies who sleep in a separate bedroom are more likely than others to experience pauses in their breathing (apnoea), and are also at a higher risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are with their parents. The fact that your child is a co-sleeper means that you are able to swiftly respond to any problems and reassure them, so they will be more relaxed.
Choosing the best bassinet or bedside crib for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including living situation and long-term plans. For example, if you have a partner or housemate who may also want to use the bedside crib, it could be best to look at convertible options that can grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child develops. We suggest contacting us to find out more about this feature.
In addition to being a safe and practical option for exhausted new parents, the most significant advantage of the bedside crib is the fact that it fosters bonding between baby and mother. Research has shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to nurse for longer if their baby's close. This leads to a stronger attachment between the two.
This is why the bedside cot is well-liked and is a great option for any new mom who wishes to keep their baby close by. When purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is because there are options at all price levels.
