Bedside Co-Sleeper – What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?

A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that attaches to the side of your bed which allows you to reach out for your baby during the night. This type of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you to keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.

Peace of Mind

Co-sleeping can be a good parenting option. Some parents worry that sleeping close to their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. However, it’s important to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing the same sleep surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS if it’s not done so in a safe manner. Bedside cots co-sleepers are designed to provide a safe middle space between bed sharing and separate sleeping areas. They allow parents to reach out and comfort their child without leaving their bed.

Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed frequently However, exhausted parents may find it difficult to leave their beds in order to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot with a co sleeper allows parents to keep their baby at a distance and not have to leave their comfortable bedding. The innovative design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to zip down and transform the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an extra layer of security which makes it easier for parents who are tired to keep an eye on their baby while still in the bed.

It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases if a parent smokes (even with a co-sleeper) and if any alcohol or drugs are consumed, even in small amounts. It is also not a good idea to co-sleep with a baby if the father or mother has a history of having a snore. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs to reduce the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. A bassinet or cot at the bedside is the best method to ensure this.

Safety

While co-sleeping is a common practice in a number of countries however, the NHS advises that infants should be in their own cots rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the higher risk of overheating or suffocation. Babies who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is an ideal solution. The close proximity to parents will ensure that the child is not being suffocated or overheated, while being capable of being easily reached to feed at night and be comforted.

When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became viral in 2014, parents around the world were eager to get their hands on one to test the safest co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement, doctors do not fully support the idea of a sleeping bed that is attached to the side of an adult bed.

The most significant concern is that a parent could fall on the infant and cause strangulation or death. This is especially the case if the parent is sleeping while smoking, drinking or using drugs. Falls, overheating and maternal death are other risks.

If you decide to opt for a bedside mattress, it is important that you select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and not be prone to sagging. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for sleepers.

All new bedside sleepers will be required to conform to the new safety standard, which was launched in November 2020. It replaces the previous standards. There are still older models on sale in some shops, but these are gradually disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.

If you choose to purchase a second-hand model, make sure that it is in good shape prior to purchasing it. Check that the mechanism that holds the mattress to the parent’s bed is sturdy and doesn’t leave a gap, and that the mattress is placed in the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too, so that the baby is unable to wiggle inside and get stuck in a pocket or be at risk of suffocation.

Convenience

Many new parents experience an instinctual desire to be at their baby’s side at night, but sleep experts like Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer option. They are designed to attach to the side of a parent’s bed, allowing baby to be in reach for feeding at night and comforting. newborn bedside cot means that tired parents don’t have to leave their bed at night, and they can keep an eye on their baby whilst still sleeping well.

Children who sleep in separate rooms are more likely to suffer from pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are more prone to SIDS. According to research that babies sleep better when they are close to their parents. You can also quickly respond to any problems or reassure your baby and make them feel more at ease.

The best bassinet or bedside crib for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including your living environment and long-term plans. If you share a house with a partner or if your child is likely to be using the crib as they grow and develops, it is best to choose a convertible crib that will transform into a solitary crib or toddlers beds. We recommend contacting us to learn more about this option.

Aside from being a safe and convenient option for tired 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 mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed longer when their baby is near, which in turn results in an even stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.

A bedside cot is a great option for new mothers who wish to keep their child close to them. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to ensure that it is in compliance with all of the safe sleeping and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It’s also worth considering what your budget is because there are options at all price levels.