Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet
New parents have many choices when it comes to newborn sleep. Some parents are considering co-sleeping, which the AAP warns against because of the risk of suffocation. Others want to be in a position to reach their child for diaper changes or feedings in the middle of the night.
A co-sleeper for the baby can be affixed to the side of a parent's bed to give them secure and easy access. MFM home testers praised the stylish, functional design of this option.
Safety
A bedside sleeper, also known as a sidecar bassinet is a safe baby sleep option that allows newborns to sleep next to their parents without being at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's an element of rooming-in which is a practice used in hospitals that helps newborns establish a bond with their mom or dad while they're still learning how to self-soothe to sleep. Parents must take into consideration the pros and cons of bedside co-sleepers as well as regular bassinets when choosing a sleeping solution.
Safety is the most crucial feature in a co-sleeper for the baby. Look for models with rigid frames with breathable materials, and no loose parts that could create the risk of choking. Look for models that are machine washable to make cleaning easy. Make sure that the bed is firm and flat and free of pillows or blankets. This will decrease the risk of suffocation.
The unit's accessibility from the bed of the parents is an additional security consideration. This makes it easier to take advantage of feeding at night, and better surveillance of the baby as they sleep. Some bassinets are so far from the bed of the parents that they require a step in order to get to the sleeping area.
The proximity of parents to their children is another factor that many consider when deciding on co-sleeping at the bedside vs. bassinet. Some parents prefer the close physical bond that co-sleeping provides, while others are concerned about the risk of suffocation or roll-off risks associated with sharing a bed. Some of the most highly-rated bedside sleepers like the babybay co sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper, are designed to eliminate the concerns by using a wood-slat design that mimics the cribs in which infants were born, as well as a swaddle sack that prevents them from moving around in their sleep.
Think about the Arm's reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper if not sure about the dangers of co-sleeping. This bassinet-style co sleeper offers an environment that is safer for co-sleeping by connecting directly to the side of your bed with a narrow barrier that lets you see and reach your baby.
Comfort
It's crucial that your baby rests comfortably, regardless of the kind of sleeper you choose. It is essential to make sure that the crib is flat and solid with no gaps between the mattress of your baby and the sleep surface. Some co-sleepers have soft surfaces and fluffy padding which can put your child at risk of SIDS. For this reason, we recommend using a mattress protector to prevent any sagging or gaps.
The ability to breathe is a further factor to think about. Some of the top models we have reviewed in this review, such as the Babybay Bedside Sleeper and Snoo Smart Sleeper, have ventilated mesh sides that provide great ventilation while still keeping your newborn secure. Other models like the Baby Delight or HALO BassiNest essencetia also have excellent ventilation.
A final consideration is whether or not your sleeper includes a tilt feature which is beneficial for babies with problems with digestion or reflux.
travel cot bedside crib of the top sleepers we found, like the HALO Swivel BassiNest Sleeper 3.0 have a slight tilt that can help your baby while minimizing the risk of suffocation or falling.
While some parents may opt for a regular bassinet, many prefer the bedside sleeper. These models are attached to the parents' bed and allow them to reach their infant for mid-night feedings and for comforting. Bedside sleepers can be employed as a part of a secure co-sleeping practice known as rooming-in. It reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome and encourages bonding between parents and babies.
In the end, it's up to each family to determine what's best for them. However, we hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect bedside co-sleeper for your baby. To stay clear of any dangers, no matter if you choose a bassinet or a bedside co-sleeper, make sure to follow AAP's recommended safe sleeping guidelines. Good luck!
Design
A baby bedside co-sleeper, also called a sidecar co-sleeper or bassinet for bedside--is a safer alternative to traditional cribs and allows parents to co-sleep with their baby. It is affixed to the opposite side of the parent's bed and creates a mattress extension where babies can be easily reached for feeding and comfort at night. This type of room sharing reduces the risk of SIDS and other risks for infants but can also make it easier to keep baby in sight.
There are a variety of co-sleepers on the market. It's important to pick one that meets your family's requirements. Some are more expensive and have more features. Others are more budget-friendly. However, safety should be the primary consideration no matter the model you choose to purchase. Make sure to research certifications and reviews, as well as safety issues for the particular model you're looking at.
The best co-sleepers that babies can sleep in are the Snoo Smart sleeper, Baby Delight's Beside Me Dreamer and the HALO BassiNest Essentia. The breathable mesh and minimal expanses of solid fabric on these models ensure that the bed is comfortable for baby without gaps or compression which could block airflow. The babybay bedside option is another great choice. It is designed that resembles a crib and it can be adjusted in height for the ideal fitting.
Newborns feel more secure in small spaces, and the baby's womb-like appearance of co-sleepers and bassinets can aid them in sleeping better and build a strong bond with their parents. In addition, having a bedside sleeper gives the convenience that many parents need to breast feed or bottle feed at the end of the night without having to get out of bed. The models mentioned above all have a sleek, stylish design that is compatible with any style of bedroom. These models are also simple to clean and set up, making them the ideal option for parents who want to sleep with their child.
Value
A bedside sleeper is a great method to keep your baby close throughout the night. It can help you build a stronger bond and enhance your child's overall development.
travel cot bedside crib makes it easier for you to get up and feed your child and also change diapers.
Choose a sleeper that folds easily and can serve multiple purposes. Some options can be converted into a play yard or deeper bassinets, for instance. You should also take into consideration the quality of the sleep surface, as many models use polyurethane foam. Be sure to look for claims about eco-friendly such as low VOC, hypoallergenic and GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certified.
You may also need to think about your long-term plans because your baby may need to be moved to a crib within a few months. A bassinet, or co-sleeper is a good option, since you will be able to be close to your baby, and it can ease the transition from your bed to your nursery. This type of arrangement is also known as rooming-in and is believed to improve baby's sleep habits and sensory differences.