Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet
New parents face many options when it comes down to newborn sleep. Some parents are considering co-sleeping (which the AAP cautions against due the risk of suffocation), while others want the convenience of having their baby close to them for feedings and diaper changes.
A baby's co-sleeper can be affixed to the parent's bed for secure and easy access. The MFM home testers were impressed by the stylish and functional look of this option.
Safety
A bedside co sleeper, also known as a sidecar bassinet is a safe baby sleep option that allows babies to sleep next to their parents without placing them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's part of the rooming-in procedure that is utilized in hospitals to help babies establish a connection with their parents as they are still learning how to soothe themselves. When choosing a solution for sleep, parents need to weigh the advantages and cons of both bedside co sleepers and standard bassinets.
The most important feature of a co-sleeper for a baby is safety. Models with sturdy frames and materials that breathe are ideal. They should also not have any loose parts or parts that can pose an choking risk. A breathable mattress is essential and it is recommended to look for mattresses that can be machine-washed for easy cleaning. Also, make sure the mattress is level and firm, without any blankets or pillows, as this will reduce the risk of an accidental suffocation hazard.
Another factor to consider is whether the unit is easily reached from the parent's bed. This will allow for feedings at night and better monitoring of the baby's status while they sleep. Some bassinets can be located far enough away from the bed of the parents that they require a step in order to get to the area where they sleep.
Many parents also consider the proximity of the bassinet to their bed when deciding between a co-sleeper and a bassinet. bedside cot used prefer co-sleeping due to the close physical connection it offers however, others are concerned about the possibility of suffocation and rolling off that comes with bed sharing. The top-rated bedside sleepers are the Snoo smart sleeping bag and the Babybay bedside co-sleeper. They have a wood-slat construction that mimics cribs where babies were born, and a swaddle-sack that prevents them moving in their sleep.
If you're considering co-sleeping but are hesitant about the risk, think about an option like the Arm's reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper. This bassinet-style co sleeper creates an environment that is safer for co-sleeping by connecting directly to the bed's side and a barrier that lets you see and reach your baby.
Comfort
No matter what type of sleeper you choose it's crucial to ensure that your baby sleeps comfortably. This means making sure that the crib is firm and level, with no gaps between the mattress and the baby's bed. Some co-sleepers in bed use soft padding or soft surfaces that can put your baby at risk of SIDS. To prevent this, we suggest using a mattress cover to stop any sagging or gaps.
Breathability is another important feature to think about. The models we tested for this review include mesh sides that are air-tight mesh, which lets your baby breathe while remaining safe. Other models, like the Baby Delight and HALO BassiNest Essentia, offer great ventilation.
A final consideration is whether or not your bedside sleeper has a tilt option, which can be helpful for babies who have digestive issues or reflux. Some of the best sleepers we've seen, like the HALO Swivel BassiNest Sleeper 3.0, have a slight tilt that can be beneficial to your baby, while reducing the chance of suffocation and falling.
While some parents might prefer a traditional bassinet, many parents prefer the bedside sleeper. These models attach directly to the mattress of the parent which makes it simple to reach their baby for feedings or comforting in the middle of night. Bedside sleepers can also be used as the method of rooming-in, also known as co-sleeping. This decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome and also encourages parents and infants to bond.
Ultimately, it's up to the individual family to decide what's best for their family. However, we hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect baby bedside co-sleeper for your infant. No matter if you opt for a bedside co-sleeper or a standard bassinet, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines that are recommended by the AAP, to avoid any dangers. Good luck!
Design
A baby bedside co sleeper--also known as a sidecar co-sleeper, bassinet or bedside bassinet--is a safer alternative to cribs that are traditional and allows parents to safely co-sleep with their newborn. It attaches on the opposite side of the parent's bed and creates an extension of the mattress where babies can be easily reached for comforting and feeding during the night. This kind of room-sharing reduces the risk for SIDS and other dangers for infants, but also makes it easier to monitor baby.
There are a myriad of co-sleepers on the market. It is crucial to select one that is suitable for your family's requirements. Some co-sleepers are more expensive and come with more features. Others are more budget-friendly. However, safety must be the top priority regardless of the model you choose to purchase. Make sure to research certifications and reviews, as well as safety concerns for the model you're looking at.
The top choices for baby co-sleeping at the bedside include the Snoo Smart Sleeper, Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer, and HALO BassiNest Essentia. These models are made of breathable mesh and minimal stretching of solid fabric to ensure that the baby's sleep surface is comfortable. There are no gaps or compressions that can hinder airflow. The babybay bedside sleeper is a fantastic alternative, with a design that looks similar to a traditional crib and a height adjustability to ensure a "just right" fit.
A bassinet, or co-sleeper, can be a secure space for infants. The womb-like feeling of the bassinet will allow babies sleep better and form bonds with their parents. In addition, having a bedside sleeper provides the convenience that many parents need to breastfeed or bottle feed their babies at night without leaving their the bed. The aforementioned models all come with a sleek, elegant design that is compatible with any bedroom decor. They're also quick and easy to set up and clean and make them a good choice for parents who require a simple method of sleeping with their newborn.
Value
A bedside crib allows you to keep your baby close at night. It can help you develop an improved bond with your child as well as improve their overall development. It helps you wake up to change diapers and feeds which can help you to sleep better as well.
When you are choosing a bedside sleeper, look for one that folds up easily and has multiple functions. There are a few options that can be transformed into play yard or a deeper bassinet, for example. It is also important to consider the quality of the sleep surface as a lot of models utilize polyurethane foam. Be sure to look for claims about eco-health, such as low VOC and hypoallergenic or GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certification.
Make sure to think about your long-term plans well, as you might need to transition your baby to a crib in a few months. If you do, a co-sleeper or bassinet might be the best option, as it allows you to remain near your infant and helps ease the transition from sleep in your bed to the nursery. This kind of arrangement for sleeping is also known as rooming-in, is believed to improve a baby's sensory perception and sleeping habits.