Bedside Co-Sleeper - What is a Bedside Co-Sleeper?
A bedside co-sleeper is a bassinet that can be attached to the bed's side and allows you to reach for baby during the night. This kind of co-sleeping is recommended by The Lullaby Trust and NHS as it lets you keep your baby close without the risk of SIDS.
Peace of Mind
Co-sleeping is a great option for parents. Many parents are concerned that sleeping next to their baby increases the risk of SIDS. However studies like those conducted by NHS suggest the reverse. Co-sleeping refers to sharing the same sleeping surface which could increase the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots co-sleepers are designed to provide a secure, middle space between bed sharing and separate sleeping areas. They allow 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 regularly However, exhausted parents may be unable to leave their beds in order to feed or comfort them. The bedside co-sleeper gives parents the option to keep their infant close to them and not have to leave their comfy bed. The innovative design of some co sleepers, such as the SnuzPod also permits the four walls to slide down and transform the crib into a cradle, providing an additional layer of protection which makes it easier for tired parents to keep an eye on their baby while still in their bed.
Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs could increase the risk of SIDS. Co-sleeping with a child is not recommended in the event of a parent with an history of snoring. The NHS recommends that babies rest on their backs in order to minimize the chance of suffocation or accidental rolling. A bassinet or bedside cot is the most secure way to ensure this.
Safety
The NHS recommends that babies sleep in their own cribs, rather than share your bed. This is due to the increased chance of suffocation and heat. Babies in bed with parents are more likely to be surrounded by blankets, pillows, or sheets, which could hinder their breathing and lead to SIDS. A crib that is placed near the bed can be a great solution. Being close to parents will ensure that the child isn't being suffocated, or overheated. Moreover, the baby is accessible to feed at night and be comforted.
Parents around the world were eagerly anticipating the Dutch cosleeping pod when it first became viral in 2004. They wanted to experience safe cosleeping. Despite the excitement and interest doctors aren't yet completely in support of the idea of a sleeping cot that can be fixed to the side of a bed for adults.
The main issue is that a parent could fall onto the infant and cause strangulation or suffocation. This is particularly true in the case of a parent who is asleep when drinking, smoking or taking drugs. The risk of overheating, falling or even death are additional risks.
If you choose to purchase a bedside sleeper, it is vital to choose one that meets the highest safety standards. The mattress should be snugly fitted without gaps and should not be susceptible to sliding. You should also familiarise yourself with the weight limits and age recommendations for sleepers.
All new bedside beds will be required to meet the new safety standard, which was launched in November 2020. It replaces the earlier standards. There may be older models available for sale in some stores but they are gradually disappearing as manufacturers move to the new safety standards.

If you opt for a second-hand model, make sure that it is in good condition before you purchase it. Verify that the mechanism used to fix the bed to the parent's mattress is strong and doesn't leave any gaps. Also, ensure that the mattress fits inside the sleeper with no bulges or gaps. Sheets should be snugly fitted too, so that the baby cannot wriggle down inside and become trapped in a pocket or be in danger of suffocation.
Convenience
Many new parents feel an instinctual desire to be at their baby's side at night, however experts in sleep such as Lullaby Trust recommend avoiding bed-sharing. Using a bedside crib, or bassinet is a safer alternative. They are made to be attached to the sides of a parent's bed, keeping baby close enough to feed at night and comforting. This lets parents rest comfortably at night without leaving their bed.
Children who sleep in separate rooms are more likely to experience pauses in breathing (apnoea) and are more at risk of SIDS. According to research, babies sleep better if they are near their parents. You can also respond quickly to any issues or concerns, or even reassure your baby, making them more comfortable.
Choosing the best bassinet or bedside crib for your family will be contingent on a variety of aspects, such as your living situation and long-term plans. For instance, if are living with a spouse or housemate who may also want to use the bedside crib, it could be beneficial to consider convertible options that can be converted into separate cribs or toddler beds as your child grows older. We suggest contacting us to learn more about this option.
The bedside crib fosters bonding between the baby and mother. It's a convenient and safe option for new parents who are exhausted. Studies have shown breastfeeding mothers tend to nurse for longer if their infant is close. cots4tots results in greater bonding between the two.
This is the reason why a bedside cot is so popular and is a good option for any new mom who would like to keep their baby close. When you purchase a bassinet or co-sleeper it is important to make sure that it is in compliance with Lullaby Trust and safe sleep guidelines. Also, you should take into consideration your budget, as there are a variety of options to choose from.