Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the side of your bed, allowing you to reach for your baby in the middle of the night. This type of cosleeping is been recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping can be a good parenting choice. Some parents are concerned that sleeping with their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those published by NHS suggest the reverse. But, it's crucial to remember that co-sleeping is sharing the same sleep surface, which can increase the risk of SIDS if not done so in a safe manner. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide an appropriate space between bed-sharing and separate sleeping surfaces, allowing a parent to reach over their child and gently nurse or comfort them, without leaving the comfort of their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and soothed frequently however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort their children. The bedside sleeper gives parents the option of keeping their infant close to them and not leave their comfy bed. Some co sleepers have an innovative design, for instance the SnuzPod. The four walls can be closed to turn the cot in a cradle, giving an extra layer of safety. This allows parents who are exhausted to watch their newborns while they sleep.
Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended when the parent has an 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 the risk of suffocation. The safest choice is to use a bedside cot, bassinet or cradle.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies be placed in their own cribs rather than share your bed. This is because of the increased risk for overheating or suffocation. Children who sleep with their parents are more likely to be surrounded by pillows, blankets or sheets, which can hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib that is placed near the bed is such a great solution. The crib is close to the parents, which prevents suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can still be easily reached for nighttime feedings and providing comfort.
When the Dutch co-sleeping cot image first became viral in 2014, parents around the world were eager to acquire one to experience safe co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the enthusiasm and excitement however, doctors are not yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of a bed for adults.
The primary concern is the fact that a parent could fall over the infant, causing suffocation or strangulation. The risk of this is particularly high if a parent is smoking, drinking alcohol or taking drugs while asleep. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are other risks.
If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it's crucial to select one that is in line with the highest standards of safety. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be prone to sliding. You should also be familiar with the recommended weight and age for the person sleeping.
All new bedside sleepers will be required to meet the new safety standard which was introduced in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. Some stores may have older models available however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.
If you choose to purchase a second-hand model ensure that it is in good working order before purchasing it. Make sure that the mechanism used to secure the bed on the mattress of the parent and does not leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits into the sleeper in a proper way, without bulges or gaps. The sheets should be snug enough that the baby can't wriggle into a pocket, and become stuck or suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bassinet or bedside crib can be a safer option. They are designed to attach to the sides of a parent's bed, keeping baby in reach to feed at night and relaxing. This allows parents to sleep well at night without having to leave their bed.
Babies sleeping in separate rooms are more likely to suffer from breathing pauses (apnoea) and are more prone to SIDS. Research has proven that babies sleep better when they are in close to their parents. Being a co-sleeper means that you can quickly respond to any issues and calm them, which means they are more comfortable.
The ideal bedside bassinet or crib for your family depends on several factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. For instance, if live with a partner or housemate who may also 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 develops. Many of our range include this feature, and we recommend getting in touch with us for more information.
The bedside crib encourages bonding with the baby and mother. It's a convenient and safe option for parents who are exhausted. Studies have proven that breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse for longer if their baby's close. This results in greater bonding between the two.
A bedside cot could be an ideal option for new mothers who want to keep their infant close to them. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it meets all the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. bedside cot sale is also important to consider your budget, as there are numerous options to choose from.
