How To Tell The Bedside Cot Co Sleeper That's Right For You

How To Tell The Bedside Cot Co Sleeper That's Right For You

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

A bedside cot co sleeper is a bassinet that attaches to the side of your bed which allows you to reach out for your baby in the middle of the night. This kind of cosleeping has been recommended by the NHS and the Lullaby Trust as it allows you keep your baby close without risking SIDS.

Peace of Mind

Co-sleeping is a vital parenting choice. Some parents are concerned that sleeping with their child increases the risk of SIDS. However studies such as those conducted by NHS suggest the reverse. It is important to remember that co-sleeping involves sharing a single sleeping surface and can therefore increase the risk of SIDS if not carried out correctly.  Continue Reading -sleeping beds in cots are designed to provide a safe place to rest between bed sharing and separate sleeping surfaces which allows parents to be able to reach out over their child and gently nurse or comfort them, without leaving the comfort of their own bed.

Babies sleep best when they are fed and reassured frequently however exhausted parents might find it difficult to leave their bed to feed or soothe them. A bedside cot with a co sleeper lets parents keep their baby at a distance and not have to leave their comfortable bedding. The innovative design of some co sleepers, like the SnuzPod, also allows 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 exhausted to watch their baby while still in their bed.

It is important to keep in mind that the risk of SIDS is increased when smoking by a parent (even with a co-sleeper) and if any alcohol or other drugs are consumed even in small amounts. Co-sleeping with children is not recommended if the parent has an history of snoring. The NHS recommends ensuring that young babies are always sleeping on their backs to reduce the risk of accidental rolling and the risk of suffocation. The most secure option is to utilize a cot at the bedside, bassinet or cradle.

Safety

While co-sleeping is widely practiced in a number of countries, the NHS recommends that infants sleep in their own cot instead of sharing a bed. This is due to the increased risk of overheating and suffocation. Babies who sleep with parents are more likely to be surrounded by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which may hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be a great solution. The crib is close to the parents, preventing overheating or suffocation of the baby. It can still be easily accessible to feed the baby at night and also for providing comfort.

When the Dutch co-sleeping pod image first became viral four years ago parents across the globe were eager to own one to try out safe co-sleeping with their baby. Despite the excitement, doctors do not fully support the idea of a sleeping bed that is attached to the side of an adult bed.

The main issue is that a parent could roll on the infant and cause suffocation or strangulation. The risk is especially high if the parent is drinking, smoking, alcohol or taking drugs while asleep. Other dangers include overheating, the risk of falling and the possibility of maternal death during pregnancy and following the birth of the child.

If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper, it is vital to choose one that meets the highest safety standards. The mattress must be fitted without gaps and should not be susceptible to sagging. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for sleepers.



All new bedside beds must be compliant with the new safety standard that was announced in November of 2020 and replaces previous standards. Some stores may still have older models available however they are slowly disappearing as manufacturers switch to the new standards.

If you opt for a second-hand model ensure that it is in good condition before purchasing it. Verify that the mechanism used to secure the bed to the parent's mattress is strong and does not leave any gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits in the sleeper with no bulges or gaps. The sheets should 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 can be a safer choice. These cribs are made to be attached directly to the bed of the parent so that baby can be easily accessible for feeding and sleeping. This means that exhausted parents aren't forced 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 separate bedrooms are more likely than others to experience pauses in their breathing (apnoea) and are also at higher risk of developing SIDS. Research has proven that babies sleep better when they're close proximity to their parents. Being a co-sleeper means that you can quickly respond to any issues and calm them, which means they feel more at ease.

The best bedside bassinet or crib for your family will depend on several factors, including your location of your home and the plans for the future. If you share a home with a partner or if your child is likely to be using the crib as they grow and develops, it is best to pick a convertible crib that will transform into a solitary crib or toddlers beds. We suggest contacting us to learn more about this feature.

Aside from being a safe and practical option for exhausted new parents, the most significant benefit of a crib that is placed near the bed is that it promotes bonding between baby and mother. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers tend to feed longer when their baby is close and this creates an even stronger and more secure bond between them.

This is why the bedside cot is well-liked and is a great choice for any new mum who would like to keep their baby close by. When buying a bassinet, or co-sleeper, you need to ensure that it complies with the Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. It's also worth considering what your budget is, since there are options at all price levels.