Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper cot is a bassinet which attaches to the bed's side which allows you to reach out for your 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 keep your baby close without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a crucial parenting decision. Some parents are concerned that sleeping with their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However newborn bedside cot like those published by NHS suggest the opposite. It is important to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleeping surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS if it's not carried out correctly. Bedside cots designed for co-sleeping are made to provide a safe middle space between bed sharing and separate sleeping surfaces. They allow parents to reach over and soothe their child without having to leave their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured regularly however exhausted parents might be unable to leave their beds in order to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot with a co sleeper lets parents keep their infant at arm's length and avoid having to leave their comfortable bedding. Some co sleepers come with an innovative design, such as the SnuzPod. The four walls can be closed to transform the cot into a cradle, giving an extra layer of safety. This allows parents who are exhausted to keep an eye on their infants while still lying in bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or drugs are consumed, even in small amounts. It's not a good idea to sleep in a crib with a baby if either the father or mother has a history of sleeping through the night. The NHS recommends that babies rest on their backs to reduce the risk of suffocation as well as accidental rolling. 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 However, the NHS suggests that infants be in their own cots instead of sharing a bed. This is due to the increased risk for suffocation or overheating. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be surrounded by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which may obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib that is placed near the bed is a fantastic solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the child is not being suffocated or overheated while still being able to be easily reached for feedings at night and comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first went to the internet four years ago parents across the globe were eager to acquire one to try out safe co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement and interest however, doctors are not yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for adults.
The primary concern is that a parent could fall on the infant and cause suffocation or strangulation. The risk of this happening is particularly high if a parent is drinking, smoking, alcohol or taking drugs during sleep. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are additional risks.
If you decide to purchase a bedside sleeper, it's essential that you choose one that is in line with the highest safety standards. The mattress must fit snugly without gaps and must not be prone to sliding. Also, you should be aware of the recommended weight and age for the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to comply with the new safety standard which was introduced in November of 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. Some stores may still have older models on sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers make the switch to the new standards.
If you opt for a second-hand mattress, make sure that it is in good condition prior to purchasing it. Verify that the mechanism used to fix the bed on the mattress of the parent is sturdy and does not leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits in the sleeper properly without any gaps or bulges. The sheets must also be snug enough that the baby doesn't slide into a pocket, and become trapped or choke.
Convenience
Many new parents feel a natural urge to be by their baby's side at night, however sleep experts like Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet is a better option. These cribs are designed to attach directly to the parent's bed so that the baby can be easily accessible for feeding and sleeping. This means that tired parents don't have to leave their sleeping areas during the night and can keep an watch on their child while still sleeping well.
Children who sleep in a separate bedroom are more likely than others to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea), and also are at a higher risk of SIDS. According to research babies sleep better when they are with their parents. You can also react quickly to any issue or concern your baby, making them more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family is dependent on a variety of factors, such as the living situation and future plans. For example, if you live with a partner or household member who may want to use the bedside crib, it could be beneficial to consider convertible options that will grow into standalone cribs or toddler beds as your child grows up. Many of our range include this feature, and we suggest contact us for more details.
Apart from being a secure and convenient option for tired new parents, the primary benefit of a bedside crib is that it promotes bonding between mother and child. Studies have proven that breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse longer when their infant is close. This leads to an increased bond between the two.
A bedside cot could be an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their infant close. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to check that it complies with all of the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. You should also be aware of your budget, since there are many options available.