Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
bedside cot 6 months plus -sleeper is a bassinet that is attached to the side of your mattress which lets you reach your baby during the middle of the night. This kind of co-sleeping has been recommended by the Lullaby Trust and NHS as it allows you to keep your baby close without the risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting decision. Many parents are concerned that sleeping close to their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. However, it's important to keep in mind that co-sleeping is sharing a single sleeping surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS when not carried out correctly. Bedside cot co sleepers are designed to provide a safe space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces which allows parents to be able to reach out over their child and effortlessly nurse or comfort them without leaving the safety of their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed frequently however exhausted parents might be unable to leave their bed to feed or comfort their children. A bedside cot with a co sleeper lets parents keep their baby at a distance and avoid the need to leave their bed. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, like the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to zip down and turn the co-sleeper into a cradle that has an extra layer of security which makes it easier for tired parents to keep an eye on their newborn while remaining in their bed.
It is important to keep in mind that the risk of SIDS increases if smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and when drinks or substances are consumed, even in small amounts. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended if the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS suggests that babies sleep on their backs in order to minimize the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. The most secure option is to use a bedside cot or bassinet, or cradle.
Safety
The NHS suggests that babies sleep in their own cribs, rather than share your bed. This is due to the increased risk of overheating or suffocation. When a baby is in bed with their parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets. This could lead to SIDS. A bedside crib can be an ideal solution. The crib is near the parents, preventing suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can still be easily accessible to feed the baby at night and also for comforting.
When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first went to the internet four years ago parents across the globe were eager to get their hands on one to try out safe co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement, however, doctors are not yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of a bed for adults.
The main concern is that a parent could accidentally roll over an infant, causing strangulation or suffocation. The risk of this is especially high if the parent is drinking, smoking, alcohol or taking drugs while asleep. Other dangers include overheating, the chance of falling, and the risk of maternal death during pregnancy or after childbirth.
If you choose to go with a bedside sleeper, it's essential that you choose one that is in line with the highest safety standards. The mattress should fit tightly without gaps and should not be prone to sagging. It is also important to be familiar with the recommended weight and the age of the sleeper.
All new bedside sleepers have to conform to the new safety standard which was announced in November of 2020 and replaces the previous standards. Some stores might still have older models available however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers make the switch to the new standards.
If you are considering purchasing a secondhand model, make sure 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 into the sleeper with no gaps or bulges. The sheets must also fit comfortably so that the baby can't wriggle into a pocket, and become trapped or even suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet is a better option. These cribs are designed to attach directly to the parent's bed so that the baby can be easily reached for feeding or sleeping. This means exhausted parents do not have to leave their bed at night, and they can keep a close eye on their child while still sleeping well.
Babies who sleep in a separate bedroom are more likely to have breathing pauses (apnoea) and also are at higher risk of developing SIDS. According to research that babies sleep better when they are close to their parents. Being a co-sleeper means that you can quickly respond to any issue and calm them, which means they are more comfortable.
Selecting the ideal bedside crib or bassinet for your family will depend on a number of aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. If you share a house with a spouse, or if your child is likely to be using the crib as he grows and develops, it is best to select a convertible crib that can transform into a solitary crib or toddler beds. Many of our products have this option, and we suggest contacting us for more information.
The bedside crib helps foster bonding between the baby and mother. It's a convenient and safe option for parents who are tired. Studies have proven that mothers who are breastfeeding tend to feed longer when their baby is close, which in turn leads to an even stronger and more secure attachment between the pair.
A bedside cot could be a great option for new mothers who wish to keep their child nearby. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to make sure that it meets all the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is, as there are options available at all price levels.