Why Bedside Cot Co Sleeper Is Still Relevant In 2024
Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper cot is a bassinet that can be attached to the side of your bed, allowing you to reach for your 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 and not risk SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is an important parenting decision. Many parents are concerned that sleeping next to their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those conducted by NHS suggest the reverse. But, it's important to keep in mind that co-sleeping is sharing the same sleeping surface, and could increase the risk of SIDS when not carried out correctly. Bedside cots co-sleepers are designed to provide a safe middle ground between the two sleeping surfaces. They permit parents to reach out and provide comfort to their child without having to leave their bed.
Babies sleep best when they are fed and comforted frequently, but exhausted parents can find it difficult to leave their beds in order to feed or comfort them. A bedside cot co-sleeper allows parents to keep their infant in a safe distance and not have to leave their bed. The innovative design of a few co sleepers, like the SnuzPod, also allows the four walls to slide down and turn the crib into a cradle, providing an extra layer of protection, making it easy for parents who are exhausted to watch their baby while still in bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS is increased when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and also if alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small quantities. It's not recommended to co-sleep with a baby if the mother or father have an history of sleeping through the night. The NHS recommends that babies sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of suffocation and accidental rolling. A bassinet or cot at the bedside is the safest method to ensure this.
Safety
The NHS suggests that babies sleep in their own cribs rather than share your bed. This is because of the increased risk of overheating or suffocation. Babies in bed with parents are more likely to be surrounded by pillows, blankets or sheets, which could obstruct their breathing and lead to SIDS. This is why a crib for bed is an ideal solution. The close proximity to parents ensures that the baby isn't being suffocated, or overheated. Moreover, the baby is accessible to feed at night and be comforted.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod image first went viral four years ago parents across the globe were eager to own one to try out safe co-sleeping with their child. Despite the excitement, doctors do not fully support the idea of a bed that connects to the side of a adult bed.
The main concern is that a parent could fall on an infant and cause strangulation or the child to suffocate. check is especially the case when the parent is asleep while drinking, smoking or using drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you decide to opt for a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select a model that meets all safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and be prone sagging. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and age of the sleeper.
All new bedside beds must comply with the new safety standard that was introduced in November 2020 and replaces previous standards. There are still older models on sale in some stores, but these are slowly disappearing as manufacturers make the transition to the new safety standards.
If you decide to buy a second-hand mattress, make sure that it is in good working order before purchasing it. Check that the mechanism that secures the bed to the parent's bed is sturdy and doesn't leave a gap. Also, ensure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper with no any gaps or bulges. Sheets should fit snugly too in order that the child can't squiggle around and end up in a pocket, or be at risk of suffocation.
Convenience
Sleep experts such as Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer choice. These cribs are designed to connect directly to the parent's bed so that the baby can be easily reached for feeding and resting at night. This means that exhausted parents don't have to leave their own bed at night and can keep a close watch on their child while still getting a goodnight's sleep.
Children who sleep in a separate room are more likely to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and are at greater risk of SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they're close proximity to their parents. You can also react quickly to any problems or reassure your baby, making them more comfortable.
Choosing the best bedside crib or bassinet for your family will be contingent on a few factors, including your living environment and long-term plans. For instance, if live with a partner or housemate who may also want to use the bedside crib, it may be a good idea to consider convertible options that can be converted into standalone cribs or toddler beds as your child grows older. Many of our products have this option, and we suggest contact us for more details.
The bedside crib fosters bonding between the mother and baby. It's a convenient and safe choice for new parents who are exhausted. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to breastfeed longer when their baby is near which creates an increased and secure bond between the two.
This is the reason 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. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to ensure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth assessing the cost of your purchase, because there are options at all price points.