Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the bed's side which allows you to reach for baby during the 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 being at risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good option for parents. While some parents are concerned about the possibility that sleeping close to their child increases the risk of SIDS, research like those conducted by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a bed, which can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping beds in cots have been designed to provide an appropriate middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces that allow parents to hold their child and easily nurse or comfort them without leaving the security of their own bed.
It is crucial to feed and reassure your baby regularly. However, parents who are exhausted might have difficulty to get up from their bed to do so. A bedside cot co-sleeper lets parents keep their infant in a safe distance and not have to leave their comfy bed. Some co sleepers feature an innovative design, for instance the SnuzPod. The four walls can be closed to convert the cot into a cradle. This provides an additional layer of security. This allows tired parents to keep an eye on their infants while they sleep.
It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases when smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and if any alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small quantities. It's also not recommended to sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has an history of sleeping through the night. The NHS suggests that young babies are always put to sleep on their back to minimise the chance of rolling and the risk of suffocation. A bedside cot or bassinet is the safest way to ensure this.
Safety
While co-sleeping is a common practice in a variety of countries however, the NHS advises that infants should sleep in their own cot rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the higher chance of suffocation and heat. Babies who sleep with their parents are more likely covered by pillows, blankets or sheets. This could lead to SIDS. A crib for bed is a great solution. Being close to parents ensures that the baby is not being suffocated or overheated, while being accessible for night-time feedings and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first went viral four years ago parents from all over the world were eager to get their hands on one to experience safe co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the excitement and interest, doctors aren't yet adamant about the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of an adult bed.
The primary concern is that a parent could roll on the infant and cause strangulation or suffocation. The risk of this is particularly high if a parent smokes, drinks alcohol or taking drugs while asleep. Overheating, falling and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it's vital to choose one that is in line with the highest standards of safety. The mattress should fit comfortably without gaps and must not be susceptible to sagging. You should also be aware of the recommended weight and the age of the person sleeping.
All new bedside beds must comply with a new safety standard that was launched in November 2020 and replaces the previous standards. Some stores may still have older models on sale however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.
If you choose to purchase a second-hand mattress, make sure that it is in good condition prior to purchasing it. Check that the mechanism used to fix the bed to the parent's mattress is strong and does not leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. The sheets should also fit comfortably so that the baby won't get into a pocket, and become trapped or choke.
Convenience
Many new parents experience a natural urge to be by their baby's side at night, however sleep experts like Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer option. cot bedside are made to be attached to the sides of a parent's bed, keeping baby within easy reach for feeding at night and providing comfort. This means that tired parents do not have to leave their own sleeping areas during the night and can keep a close eye on their child while getting a good night's rest.
Babies who have a separate bedroom are more likely to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and are also at a higher risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they are in close proximity to their parents. The fact that your child is a co-sleeper also allows you to quickly respond to any issue and calm them, which means they will be more relaxed.
Selecting the ideal bassinet or bedside crib for your family will depend on a few aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. For example, if you are living with a spouse or household member who might also want to use the bedside crib then it might be beneficial to consider convertible options that can be converted into standalone cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. A lot of our cribs have this option, and we suggest 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 bedside crib is that it encourages bonding between mother and child. Studies have proven that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed more frequently when their baby is near, which in turn results in an increased and secure bond between the two.
A bedside cot can be a great option for new mothers who want to keep their infant nearby. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. You should also take into consideration your budget, as there are many options available.