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

A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet attached to the side of your mattress that allows you to reach your baby during the middle of the night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS as well as the Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.

Peace of Mind

Co-sleeping is an excellent parenting option. Although some parents are concerned that sleeping close to their child could increase the risk of SIDS, research like those published by NHS suggest that the opposite is true. However, it's important to keep in mind that co-sleeping involves sharing a single sleeping surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS if not done so in a safe manner. Bedside cots with co sleepers are designed to provide a safe 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 comfort of their bed.


Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed regularly However, exhausted parents may find it difficult to leave their bed to feed or soothe them. A bedside cot co sleeper lets parents keep their infant at arm's length and not have to leave their bed. Some co sleepers feature an innovative design, like the SnuzPod. The four walls can be opened to convert the cot into a cradle, giving an additional layer of security. This allows tired parents to watch their newborns while they sleep.

It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS increases when smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and also if alcohol or other drugs are consumed, even in small quantities. It's not recommended to sleep with a baby if either the father or mother has a history of sleeping through the night. The NHS suggests that babies are sleeping on their backs in order to minimize the risk of accidental rolling and death. The safest choice is to utilize a cot at the bedside or bassinet, or cradle.

Safety

While co-sleeping is widely practiced in many countries, the NHS recommends that infants sleep in their own cot rather than sharing a bed. This is due to the higher chance of suffocation and heat. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets, which can restrict their breathing and contribute to SIDS. This is why a bedside crib is a fantastic solution. The crib is located close to the parents, preventing the baby from overheating or suffocating. baby. It can still be easily reached to feed the baby at night and also for soothing.

Parents across the globe were eagerly anticipating the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became popular in 2004. They wanted to experience safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement and interest doctors aren't yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for adults.

The most significant concern is that a parent may accidentally roll over the infant and cause strangulation or the child to suffocate. This is especially true when the parent is asleep when drinking, smoking or using drugs. Other dangers include overheating, the risk of falling and the risk of a maternal death during pregnancy and following the birth of a child.

If you decide to choose a bedside sleeper it is crucial to select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be prone to sliding. You should also be familiar with the weight limitations and age-related recommendations for the sleeper.

All new bedside sleepers must comply with the new safety standard that was launched in November 2020. It replaces the old standards. Some stores may offer older models for sale, but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers make the switch to the new standards.

Before you buy a used model, check that it's in good condition. Verify that the mechanism that secures the mattress to the parent's bed is robust and does not leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress fits in the sleeper without any gaps or bulges. The sheets must also fit comfortably so that the baby doesn't slide into a pocket and get trapped or even suffocate.

Convenience

Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer choice. They are designed to attach to the side of a parent's bed, keeping baby within easy reach for night time feeding and relaxing. This means that tired parents do not have to leave their own bed at night and can keep a close eye on their child while still sleeping well.

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

The best bedside bassinet or crib for your family is dependent on many factors, such as the existing situation and plans for the future. For instance, if live with a partner or household member who may prefer to use the bedside crib, it may be beneficial to consider convertible options that can be converted into separate cribs or toddler beds as your baby grows up. We recommend that you contact us to find out more about this option.

In addition to being a safe and convenient choice for new parents, the primary benefit of a bedside crib is the fact that it fosters bonding between mother and baby. Cots 4 Tots has shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to breastfeed longer when their baby is close which results in a stronger and more secure bond between them.

This is why a bedside cot has become so well-liked and is a great choice for any new mum who wants to keep their baby close by. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper, it is essential to ensure that it meets all the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It is also important to be aware of your budget, since there are numerous options to choose from.