Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside cot co sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the side of your bed, allowing you to reach for your baby in the middle of the night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS as well as the Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close, without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting decision. Cots For Tots worry that sleeping with their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those published by NHS suggest the opposite. It is important to remember that co-sleeping requires sharing the same sleeping surface and can therefore increase the risk of SIDS if not executed in a proper manner. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide a safe space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces which allows parents to reach over their child and easily to comfort or nurse them without leaving the safety of their own bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured frequently however exhausted parents might be unable to leave their bed to feed or soothe them. A bedside cot with a co sleeper allows parents to keep their infant in a safe distance and not have to leave their comfortable bedding. The unique design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to zip down and turn the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of protection which makes it easier for tired parents to watch their newborn while remaining in the bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the chance of SIDS increases if smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small quantities. It is also not a good idea to co-sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has an history of sleeping through the night. The NHS recommends ensuring that infants are sleeping on their back to minimise the risk of accidental rolling and death. The safest choice is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs, rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. Baby's in bed with their parents are more likely to be to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This could lead to SIDS. A crib for bed is a great solution. The crib is located close to the parents, preventing suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can be easily reached to feed the baby at night and also for providing comfort.
Parents from all over the world were eagerly anticipating the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first went viral in 2004. They wanted to test safe cosleeping. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement, however, doctors are not yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot that fixes to the side of a bed for adults.
The most significant concern is that a parent might accidentally roll over an infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. The risk is especially high if the parent smokes, drinks alcohol or using drugs while asleep. Other risks include overheating, the risk of falling and the possibility of maternal death during pregnancy and after childbirth.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is essential that you choose a model that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be prone sagging. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and the age of the person sleeping.
All new bedside sleepers be required to meet the new safety standard which was launched in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. Some stores might still have older models on sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you choose to purchase a second-hand model, make sure that it is in good shape before purchasing it. Make sure that the mechanism used to fix the bed to the mattress of the parent is sturdy and does not leave any gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits in the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. The sheets should also fit comfortably so that the baby can't wriggle into a pocket and become trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet is a better option. They are designed to be attached to the sides of parents' bed, allowing the baby to remain within easy reach for feeding at night and comforting. This means exhausted parents aren't forced to leave their beds during the night, and they can keep a close watch on their child while still getting a goodnight's sleep.
Babies sleeping in a separate room are more likely to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and are more at risk of SIDS. Research has proven that babies sleep better when they're in close proximity to their parents. You can also react quickly to any problems or reassure your baby and make them feel more at ease.
The best bedside bassinet or crib for your family will depend on a variety of factors, including your existing situation and plans for the future. If you live with a person who is a friend, or if your child is likely to be using the crib as they grow, it may be best to select a convertible crib that can be converted into solitary cribs or toddler beds. We recommend contacting us to learn more about this option.
In addition to being a safe and convenient choice for new parents, the main benefit of a crib that is placed near the bed is that it promotes bonding between baby and mother. Studies have proven that breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse longer when their baby is close. This results in an increased bond between the two.
This is why a bedside cot has become so popular, and a good choice for any new mum who would like to keep their baby close by. However, when it comes to buying a bassinet or co-sleeper, it's important to check that it complies with all of the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is because there are options at all prices.