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

A bedside cot co sleeper is a bassinet that attaches to the side of your bed which allows you to reach for your baby during the night. This type of co-sleeping is recommended by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close by without risking SIDS.

Peace of Mind

Co-sleeping can be a good option for parents. 4-in-1 bedside crib are concerned that sleeping with their child increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those conducted by NHS suggest the opposite. Co-sleeping is sharing a sleeping space that can increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots with co sleepers have been designed to offer an appropriate space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas which allows parents to be able to reach out over their child and effortlessly to comfort or nurse them without leaving the security of their own bed.

Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed regularly However, exhausted parents may be unable to leave their beds to feed or soothe them. A bedside cot co sleeper lets parents keep their infant at arm's length and avoid having to leave their comfortable bedding. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, like the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to zip down and transform the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an extra layer of security which makes it easier for parents who are tired to watch their baby while still in their bed.

It is important to keep in mind that the chance of SIDS increases when a parent smokes (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or drugs are consumed even in small amounts. It's also not recommended to sleep in a crib with a baby if the father or mother have an history of having a snore. The NHS recommends ensuring that babies are sleeping on their backs in order to minimize the risk of accidental rolling and suffocation. The safest choice is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet, or cradle.

Safety

While co-sleeping is a common practice in a variety of countries However, the NHS advises that infants should be in their own cots rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the higher chance of suffocation and heat. Babies who sleep with their parents are more likely to be covered by blankets, pillows or sheets. This can lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be an ideal solution. Being close to parents will ensure that the baby is not being suffocated or overheated while still being able to be easily reached to feed at night and be comforted.

Parents around the world were eagerly anticipating the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became popular in 2004. They wanted to try safe cosleeping. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement, doctors aren't yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for an adult.

The main concern is the fact that a parent can roll onto the infant and cause strangulation or suffocation. This is especially true when the parent is asleep while drinking, smoking or taking drugs. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are other risks.

If you decide to opt for a bedside sleeper, it's 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. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for the sleeper.

All new bedside sleepers have to conform to a new safety standard that was introduced in November 2020 and replaces the previous standards. You may still see older models on sale in some shops, but these are slowly disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.

If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, make sure it's in good condition. Verify that the mechanism used to secure 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 bulges or gaps. The sheets must also 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 by their child's bed at night, but experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet is a better option. They are made to be attached to the sides of parents' bed, allowing baby to be within easy reach for night time feeding and providing comfort. This means that tired parents don't have to leave their own bed at night, and they can keep a close eye on their child while still sleeping well.

Babies who sleep in a separate room are more likely to experience pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are close to their parents. Having your baby in a co-sleeper means that you are able to swiftly respond to any issue and soothe them, so they feel more at ease.


The ideal bedside bassinet crib for your family will depend on several factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. For instance, if have a partner or housemate who may also want to use the bedside crib then it might be beneficial to consider convertible options that will grow into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child grows up. We recommend contacting us to learn more about this option.

Apart from being a secure and practical option for exhausted new parents, the most significant benefit of a crib that is placed near the bed is that it encourages bonding between mother and baby. Studies have shown that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to breastfeed longer when their infant is close, which in turn results in a stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.

A bedside cot is a great option for new mothers who want to keep their baby close to them. When purchasing a bassinet or co-sleeper, it is essential to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. Also, you should be aware of your budget, since there are a variety of options to choose from.