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 reach baby in the middle night. This kind of co-sleeping has been suggested by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close by without the risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting choice. While some parents are concerned about the possibility that sleeping close to their child will increase the risk of SIDS, research like those conducted by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. But, it's important to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleeping surface and can therefore increase the risk of SIDS if not carried out correctly. Bedside cots designed for co-sleeping are made to provide a secure, middle space between the two sleeping areas. They permit parents to reach out and provide comfort to their child without having to leave their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured frequently However, exhausted parents may find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort them. A bedside cot co-sleeper lets parents keep their infant in a safe distance and avoid the need to leave their comfy bed. The innovative design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to slide down and turn the crib into a cradle, providing an additional layer of protection which makes it easier for parents who are tired to keep an eye on their newborn while remaining in bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the risk of SIDS is increased when smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and when drinks or substances are consumed, even in small quantities. Co-sleeping with children is not recommended in the event of a parent with a history of snoring. The NHS suggests that young babies are always placed to sleep on their backs in order to minimize the risk of accidental rolling and death. The safest choice is to use a bedside cot or bassinet.
Safety
While co-sleeping is commonly practiced in many countries However, the NHS advises that infants should be in their own cots rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. Children who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which can obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib that is placed near the bed is an ideal solution. The close proximity of parents ensures that the baby isn't being suffocated, or overheated while still being able to be easily reached for feedings at night and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became to the internet four years ago, parents around the world were eager to get their hands on one to try out safe co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement doctors do not support the idea of a sleeping bed that is attached to the side of a adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent may accidentally roll over an infant and cause strangulation or death. The risk of this happening is particularly high if the parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or using drugs while asleep. best bedside cot of overheating, falling or even death are also a possibility.
If you choose to purchase a bedside mattress, it is crucial to select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and must not be prone to sagging. Also, you should be aware of the recommended weight and the age of the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to be compliant with the new safety standard that was launched in November 2020 and replaces the previous standards. You may still see older models available for sale in a few stores however, they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers transition to the new safety standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, ensure that it is in good condition. Check that the mechanism used to secure the bed to the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits into the sleeper properly without any gaps or bulges. The sheets should also fit comfortably so that the baby doesn't slide into a pocket and get trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Many new parents feel an instinctual desire to be by their baby's side at night, but experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer choice. They are made to be attached to the side of a parent's bed, keeping baby within easy reach for night time feeding and relaxing. Parents can rest peacefully at night without leaving their bed.
Babies who sleep in separate bedrooms are more likely than other children to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea), and are also at higher risk of developing SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they're close proximity to their parents. You can also respond quickly to any issue or concern your baby to make them feel more comfortable.
Selecting the ideal bassinet or bedside crib that is suitable for your family will depend on a few aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. For instance, if you live with a partner or household member who might also wish to use your bedside crib, it may be a good idea to consider convertible options that can grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child grows up. Many of our products have this feature, and we recommend getting in touch with us for more information.
Aside from being a safe and practical option for exhausted new parents, the primary benefit of a crib that is placed near the bed is that it encourages bonding between mother and baby. Studies have proven that breastfeeding mothers tend to feed longer when their baby is close which results in a stronger and more secure bond between them.
This is the reason why a bedside cot has become so popular, and a good choice for any new mum who wishes to keep their baby close. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper, you need to make sure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It is also important to be aware of your budget, since there are numerous options to choose from.