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

A bedside cot co sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the bed's side, allowing you to reach for baby in the middle of the night. This type of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS and the Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close, without risking SIDS.

Peace of Mind

Co-sleeping is an important parenting decision. Many parents are concerned that sleeping next to their baby increases the risk of SIDS. However studies like those conducted by NHS suggest the reverse. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a sleeping space that can increase the risk for SIDS. Bedside cot co sleepers have been designed to offer a secure middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces which allows parents to hold their child and easily nurse or comfort them without leaving the security of their bed.

Babies sleep best when they are fed and comforted frequently However, exhausted parents may be unable to leave their beds in order to feed or soothe them. The bedside co-sleeper gives parents the option of keeping their baby close and not have to leave their comfy bed. Some co sleepers come with an innovative design, like the SnuzPod. The four walls can be opened to turn the cot in a cradle, giving an additional layer of security. This allows tired parents to keep an eye on their infants while lying in bed.

It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases if a parent smokes (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or drugs are consumed even in small quantities. It is also not recommended to co-sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has a history of snoring. The NHS recommends that babies sleep on their backs to limit the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. The safest choice is to use a bedside cot or bassinet.

Safety

While co-sleeping is commonly practiced in a variety of countries however, the NHS recommends that infants be in their own cots rather than sharing a bed. This is because of the higher risk of overheating or suffocation. When a baby is in bed with their parents are more likely covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is such a great solution. The close proximity of parents will ensure that the baby isn't being suffocated, or overheated, while being able to be easily reached for night-time feedings and comforting.

Parents across the globe were eagerly awaiting the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became viral in 2004. They wanted to try safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement doctors do not support the idea of a sleeping bed that attaches to the side of an adult bed.

The most significant concern is that a parent could fall on an infant and cause strangulation or the child to suffocate. This is especially the case in the case of a parent who is asleep when drinking, smoking or taking drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are also a possibility.

If you decide to opt for a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select one that meets all safety standards. The mattress must fit snugly without gaps and should not be prone to sliding. You should also be aware of the recommended weight and the age of the sleeper.

All new bedside sleepers be required to conform to the new safety standard, that was announced in November of 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. You may still see older models available for sale in some stores however, they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers make the transition to the new safety standards.


If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, check that it's in good shape. Verify that the mechanism that is used to anchor the bed on the parent's mattress is strong and doesn't leave gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper properly without any gaps or bulges. The sheets should be snug enough that the baby can't wriggle into a pocket and get trapped or even suffocate.

Convenience

Many new parents experience an instinctual desire to be at their baby's bed at night, but sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer choice. They are designed to be attached to the sides of parents' bed, allowing the baby to remain close enough for night time feeding and providing comfort. This means that exhausted parents do not have to leave their own bed at night and can keep a close eye on their child while still getting a goodnight's sleep.

co sleeper bedside cot sleeping in a separate room are more likely to suffer from pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are more at risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are close to their parents. Being a co-sleeper allows you to quickly respond to any issues and calm them, which means they will be more relaxed.

The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family depends on many factors, including your existing situation and plans for the future. For example, if you have a partner or household member who might also prefer to use the bedside crib then it might be best to look at convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows up. Many of our range include this feature, and we suggest contacting us for more information.

In addition to being a safe and convenient choice for new parents, the main benefit of a bedside crib is that it encourages bonding between mother and child. Research has shown that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed longer when their baby is close which leads to an increased and secure bond between them.

A bedside cot is an ideal option for new mothers who wish to keep their child nearby. When purchasing Recommended Reading or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is because there are options at all price levels.