Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet
New parents have a variety of options when it comes down to baby sleep. Some consider co-sleeping (which the AAP recommends against due to the risk of suffocation), while others want the comfort of having their child within reach for diaper changes and feedings.
A crib for the baby can be attached to the side of a parent's bed to provide safe and convenient access. MFM home testers were awed by the practical, stylish design of this option.
Safety
The bedside co-sleeper, sometimes known as a sidecar, is a secure option for infant sleep that allows newborns to rest close to their parents without putting them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's an element of rooming-in, a method employed in hospitals to help newborns bond with their mom or dad as they learn to self-sooth to sleep. Parents should weigh the pros and con of bedside co-sleepers as well as regular bassinets when deciding on the best sleep solution.
The most important thing to consider when choosing a co-sleeper for a baby is safety. Models that have rigid frames and breathable materials are the best. They should also not have any loose parts or loose parts that could pose an choking risk. Consider models that can be washed to ensure easy cleaning. Also, make sure the sleeping surface is flat and firm without blankets or pillows, since this will reduce the risk of an accidental suffocation hazard.
The unit's proximity to the bed of the parents is a further safety consideration. This allows for easier feeding at night, and better monitoring of the baby while they sleep. In contrast, some regular bassinets are situated far enough from the parent's bed that they may require a step-up to reach the sleeping area.
Many parents also take into account the proximity of the bassinet to their bed when making a decision between a co-sleeper and a bassinet. Some parents prefer the close physical bond that co-sleeping provides and others are worried about the risk of suffocation or roll-off risks associated with sharing a bed. Some of the best-rated bedside sleepers are the Snoo smart sleeping bag and the Babybay bedside co-sleeper. They feature a wood-slat construction that mimics cribs in which babies were born and a swaddle-sack which stops them from moving during their sleep.
If you're considering co-sleeping but aren't sure about the risk, think about an option like the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Cosleeper. This bassinet-style co sleeper offers an environment that is safer for co-sleeping by connecting directly to the bed's side with a narrow barrier that allows you to view and reach your baby.
Comfort
It's crucial that your baby sleeps comfortably, no matter what kind of sleeper you pick. This means making sure that the crib is firm and level, with no gaps between the mattress and your baby's bed. Some co-sleepers in bed use soft surfaces or fluffy padding which could put your baby at risk of SIDS. We suggest using a mattress protector to prevent any sagging.
Another important feature to consider is breathability. Some of the models we have tested for this review have mesh sides with air-tight mesh that lets your baby breathe while remaining secure. Other models, such as the Baby Delight and HALO BassiNest Essentia, also offer excellent airflow.
The final thing to consider is whether or not your bedside mattress has a tilt option, which can be helpful for babies who have reflux or digestive issues. Some of the top options we've found, such as the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 have an incline that is slight, which can be helpful for your baby, while minimizing the risk of suffocation or falling.
While some parents may opt for a regular bassinet, a lot of parents prefer a bedside sleeper. These models can be attached to the parent's bed which allows them to easily reach their newborn for middle-of-the-night feedings and for comforting. Bedside sleepers can also be used as part of a secure co-sleeping practice known as rooming-in. It reduces the risk of sudden infant deaths and fosters bonding between parents and their babies.
It's ultimately up to the individual family to decide what's best for their family. However, we hope this guide has been helpful as you search for the ideal baby bedside co-sleeper for your baby. If you decide to go with a bedside sleeper or a regular bassinet, be sure to follow the recommended safe sleeping guidelines as suggested by the AAP, to avoid any dangers. Good luck!
Design
The cribside baby co-sleeper (also called a sidecar co-sleeper or bassinet) is a secure alternative to traditional cribs that allow parents to sleep together with their infant. It is attached to the sides of the parent's bed and creates a mattress extension so that babies can be reached easily for comforting and feeding during the night. This type of room-sharing reduces the risk for SIDS and other risks for infants as well as makes it easier to monitor the baby.
There are a myriad of co-sleepers to choose from. It is crucial to select one that suits your family's needs. Some are more feature-rich than others and some are more affordable. Safety should always be your top priority, regardless of the product you choose to buy. Check out certifications and reviews, as well as safety concerns for the model you're considering.
The top choices for baby bedside co sleepers include the Snoo Smart Sleeper, Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer, and HALO BassiNest Essentia. These models have 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 could hinder airflow. The babybay bedside option is a great alternative. It is designed like a crib and it is adjustable in height to ensure the ideal fit.
Newborns feel most secure in smaller spaces, and the likeness of a womb in co-sleepers or bassinets can aid them in sleeping better and build a strong bond with their parents. Additionally, having a bedside sleeping device gives ease of access that parents often require to breastfeed or bottle feed their babies at night without getting out of bed. The models listed above all have a sleek, stylish look that works well with any style of bedroom. They're also easy to set up and clean which makes them a great choice for parents who need a convenient method of sleeping with their newborn.
Value
A bedside sleeper can be a wonderful method to keep your baby close throughout the night. It can help you establish an improved relationship with your child and enhance their overall development. It also makes it easier to get up to feed your child and change diapers and can help you sleep more as well.
When choosing a bedside sleeper, choose one that folds effortlessly and can be used for multiple purposes. Some models can be converted into a play space or a larger bassinet. You should also take into consideration the quality of the sleep surface since many models make use of polyurethane foam. Look for eco-health claims like low VOC, hypoallergenic and GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certified.
Take into bedside cot newborn -term plans as well, since you could have to move your baby to a crib within the next few months. If this is the case, a co-sleeper bassinet may be the most suitable option, as it lets you stay close to your infant and eases the transition from sleep in your bed to the nursery. This kind of arrangement is also known as rooming-in and is believed to improve baby's sleep habits and sensory differences.