10 Healthy Bedside Cot Co Sleeper Habits
Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the bed's side which allows you to reach out 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 to keep your baby close, without risking SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great parenting option. Some parents worry that sleeping close to their infant increases the risk of SIDS. However, studies such as those published by NHS suggest the opposite. Co-sleeping is a form of sharing a bed that can increase the risk for SIDS. Co-sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide a safe middle ground between bed-sharing and separate sleeping areas, allowing a parent to be able to reach out 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, but exhausted parents can find it difficult to leave their beds to feed or comfort them. The bedside co sleeper allows parents the option of keeping their baby close and not need to leave their comfy bed. The innovative design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to zip down and turn the cot into a cradle with an extra layer of protection, making it easy for parents who are tired to keep an eye on their newborn while remaining in the bed.
It is worth bearing in mind that the risk of SIDS is increased when parents smoke (even with a co-sleeper) and when alcohol or drugs are consumed, even in small quantities. It's not a good idea to co-sleep with a baby if either the father or mother have a history of sleeping through the night. The NHS recommends ensuring that young babies are always sleeping on their back to minimise the risk of accidental rolling and suffocation. A bedside cot or bassinet is the safest way to ensure this.
Safety
While co-sleeping is widely practiced in a number of countries however, the NHS recommends that infants sleep in their own cot instead of sharing a bed. This is due to the higher risk of suffocation or overheating. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be covered by pillows, blankets or sheets, which can hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. A bedside crib can be an ideal solution. bedside travel crib is near the parents, preventing suffocation or overheating of the baby. It can be easily reached to feed the baby at night and also for providing comfort.
When the Dutch co-sleeping pod first became viral four years ago parents from all over the world were eager to acquire one to try out safe co-sleeping while their child was sleeping. Despite the excitement and enthusiasm, doctors aren't yet fully supportive of the idea of a sleeping cot which can be attached to the side of an adult bed.
The primary concern is that a parent could accidentally roll over an infant and cause strangulation or death. This is especially the case in the case of a parent who is asleep while smoking, drinking or taking drugs. Overheating, falling and maternal death are also a possibility.
If you choose to opt for a bedside sleeper, it is crucial to select one that is in line with the highest standards of safety. The mattress must fit snugly without gaps and must not be susceptible to sagging. Also, you should be familiar with the recommended weight and the age of the person sleeping.
All new bedside sleepers must comply with a new safety standard that was introduced in November 2020 and replaces previous standards. Some stores may still have older models on sale however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers shift to the new standards.
If you decide to purchase a used model, check that it's in good condition. Make sure that the mechanism that is used to anchor the bed to the mattress of the parent and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, make sure that the mattress fits in the sleeper in a proper way, without gaps or bulges. The sheets should be snug enough that the baby doesn't slide into a pocket and become stuck or suffocate.
Convenience
Sleep experts like Lullaby Trust advise against bed-sharing. A bedside crib or bassinet can be a safer option. They are made to be attached to the sides of a parent's bed, allowing the baby to remain close enough for night time feeding and providing comfort. This means that exhausted parents don't have to leave their sleeping areas during the night, and they can keep an eye on their child while still getting a goodnight's sleep.
Children who sleep in a separate bedroom are more likely than others to suffer breathing pauses (apnoea) and also are at higher risk of developing SIDS. Research has found that babies sleep better when they are in close proximity to their parents. The fact that your child is co-sleeping also means that you are able to swiftly respond to any issues and soothe them, so they will be more relaxed.
Selecting the ideal bassinet or bedside crib for your family will depend on a few factors, including living situation and long-term plans. If you share a home with a spouse or if your child will be using the crib as they grow in age, it might be beneficial to choose an adjustable crib that can transform into a solitary crib or toddlers beds. We recommend that you contact us to find out more about this feature.
The bedside crib helps foster bonding with the mother and baby. It's a convenient and safe option for parents who are exhausted. Studies have shown breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse longer when their baby's close. This leads to a stronger attachment between the two.
A bedside cot can be an excellent option for mothers who want to keep their baby close to them. But, prior to buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper, you must ensure that it is in compliance with all of the safe sleep and Lullaby Trust guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is, as there are options available at all price levels.