Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that attaches to the side of your bed, allowing you to reach out for your baby during the night. This type of cosleeping has 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 a vital parenting choice. Although some parents are concerned that sleeping in close proximity to their infant increases the risk of SIDS, research like those conducted by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. However, it's important to keep in mind that co-sleeping requires 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 secure, middle ground between the two sleeping surfaces. They allow parents to reach over and soothe their child without having to leave their bed.
It is crucial to feed and reassure your baby frequently. However, parents who are tired might find it difficult to get out of their bed to feed their child. A bedside cot with a co sleeper lets parents keep their baby at a distance and avoid the need to leave their bed. Some co sleepers have an innovative design, for instance the SnuzPod. The four walls can be zipped down to convert the cot into a cradle, providing an extra layer of safety. This allows exhausted parents to watch their newborns while they sleep.
Even small amounts of alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. It is also not a good idea to sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has a history of snoring. The NHS suggests that young babies are always sleeping on their backs to reduce the chance of rolling and the risk of suffocation. The most secure option is to utilize a cot at the bedside, bassinet or cradle.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs instead of having to sharing your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. When a baby is in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can cause SIDS. This is why a bedside crib 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 to feed at night and be comforted.
When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first went to the internet four years ago parents across the globe were eager to get their hands on one to experience safe co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement doctors don't support the idea of a bed that connects to the sides of an adult bed.
The primary concern is that a parent could roll over the infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. This is particularly true if the parent is sleeping while smoking, drinking or taking drugs. Falls, overheating and maternal death are additional risks.
If you decide to opt for a bedside sleeper it is important that you select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress must fit snugly without gaps and should not be susceptible to sliding. You should also be aware of the recommended weight and age of 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 have older models available but they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.
If you choose to purchase an older model be sure it is in good shape prior to purchasing it. Make sure that the mechanism that secures the mattress to the parent's bed is robust and doesn't leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress fits in the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should also fit snugly to ensure that the baby is unable to wiggle inside and get stuck in a pocket or be at risk of being suffocated.
Convenience
Many new parents experience an instinctual desire to be at their baby's side at night, but sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib or bassinet is a safer option. large bedside cot are made to be attached to the sides of a parent's bed, allowing baby to be close enough for feeding at night and comforting. This lets parents rest comfortably at night without leaving their bed.
Babies who have a separate bedroom are more likely than others to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and are also at a higher risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they're in close to their parents. You can also react quickly to any issue or concern your baby and make them feel more at ease.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family is dependent on many aspects, including the location of your home and the plans for the future. If you live with a partner or if your child will be using the crib as they grow, it may be best to select a convertible crib that will be converted into solitary cribs or toddlers beds. We suggest contacting us to find out more about this option.
Aside from being a safe and practical option for exhausted new parents, the most significant advantage of the bedside crib is that it promotes bonding between baby and mother. Research has shown that mothers who breastfeed tend to nurse for longer if their baby is close. This creates greater bonding between the two.
This is why a bedside cot is so well-liked and is a great choice for any new mum who wishes to keep their baby close by. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it meets all the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is, as there are options available at all prices.