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

A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet attached to the mattress's side that allows you to reach your baby during the middle of 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 can be a good parenting choice. While some parents are concerned about the possibility that sleeping close to their child increases the risk of SIDS, research like those conducted by NHS suggest otherwise. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a sleeping space that can increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots co-sleepers are designed to be a safe, middle space between beds that share and separate sleeping areas. They permit parents to reach over and provide comfort to their child without leaving their bed.

It is essential to feed and comfort your baby regularly. However, tired parents may find it difficult to get up from their bed to do so. A bedside cot co sleeper allows parents to keep their baby at a distance and not have to leave their comfy bed. The innovative design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod also allows the four walls to slide down and transform the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of protection, making it easy for parents who are tired to keep an eye on their newborn while remaining in their bed.

It is worth bearing in mind that the chance of SIDS increases if parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or drugs are consumed, even in small amounts. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS recommends ensuring that infants are put to sleep on their backs in order to minimize the chance of rolling and the risk of suffocation. The safest choice is to use a bedside cot or bassinet, or cradle.

Safety

The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs rather than sharing your bed. This is due to the increased risk for suffocation or overheating. When a baby is in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets. This can lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be a great solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the child isn't suffocated or overheated while still being accessible for night-time feedings and comforting.


When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first went to the internet four years ago, parents around the world were eager to own one to experience safe co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the excitement and interest, however, doctors are not yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of an adult bed.

The most significant issue is that a parent can roll onto the infant and cause strangulation or suffocation. This is especially true in the case of a parent who is asleep while drinking, smoking or using drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are additional risks.

If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it is vital to choose a model that meets the highest standards of safety. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be susceptible to sagging. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and the age of the sleeper.

All new bedside sleepers be required to meet the new safety standard which was launched in November of 2020. bedside crib to cot replaces the previous standards. Some stores may still have older models on sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.

If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, check that it's in good condition. Verify the mechanism used to secure the mattress to the parent's bed is robust and does not leave a gap. You should also ensure that the mattress fits in the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too to ensure that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and end up in a pocket, or be at risk of being suffocated.

Convenience

Many new parents feel the natural desire to be by their baby's side at night, but experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer option. These cribs are designed to attach directly to the parent's bed so that the baby can be easily reached for feeding and resting at night. This means exhausted parents don't have to leave their sleeping areas during the night, and they can keep an watch on their child while getting a good night's rest.

Babies who sleep in a separate room are more likely to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they're in close proximity to their parents. You can also respond quickly to any issues or concerns, or even reassure your baby to make them feel more comfortable.

The best bassinet or bedside crib that is suitable for your family will depend on a few aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. For instance, if have a partner or household member who might also wish to use your bedside crib, it may be beneficial to consider convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows older. A lot of our cribs have this option, and we suggest getting in touch with us for more information.

The bedside crib helps foster bonding with the mother and baby. It is a convenient and safe choice for new parents who are exhausted. Research has shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to breastfeed longer when their infant is close which leads to a stronger and more secure bond between them.

A bedside cot could be a great option for new mothers who wish to keep their child close to them. When purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it meets all the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. You should also consider your budget, as there are many options available.