Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet
New parents have a variety of options when it comes to sleeping arrangements for their newborn. Some parents may consider co-sleeping which the AAP warns against because of the risk of suffocation. Others want to be able to reach their baby for diaper changes or feedings in the middle of the night.
A co-sleeper for the baby can be affixed to the parent's bed to provide secure and easy access. MFM home testers were awed by the functional, stylish look of this option.
Safety
The bedside co-sleeper, sometimes called a sidecar, is a secure option for sleep-deprived babies that allows newborns to rest with their parents without the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's an element of rooming-in, the practice used in hospitals that helps newborns bond with their mom or dad while they're still learning how to self-soothe to sleep. Parents must weigh the pros and con of bedside co-sleepers as well as regular bassinets when choosing a sleep solution.
Safety is the most crucial aspect of a co-sleeper a baby. Models with sturdy frames and materials that breathe are ideal. They should also not have any loose or loose parts that can pose the risk of choking. A mattress that is breathable is crucial and you should look for models that can be machine-washed for simple cleaning. Also, ensure that the mattress is flat and firm without pillows or blankets, since this can reduce the chance of an accidental suffocation hazard.
Another safety consideration is whether the unit is easily accessible from the bed of the parent. This will allow for feedings at night and easier monitoring of the baby's health as they sleep. In contrast, some regular bassinets are situated far enough away from the bed of the parent that they might require a step up to access the sleeping area.
Proximity to the parents is another aspect that parents are considering when deciding between co-sleeping at the bedside vs. bassinet. Some parents prefer a co-sleeper due to the close physical connection it creates however, others are concerned about the risk of suffocation or roll-off that comes with bed sharing. Some of the highest-rated bedside sleepers like the babybay co sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper are designed to alleviate the concerns by using the wood-slat design, which resembles the cribs where infants were born, as well as the swaddle sack, which prevents the infants from moving around during their sleep.
If you're considering co-sleeping but aren't sure about the risk, think about an option such as the Arm's reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper. This bassinet co-sleeper creates a more secure environment for co-sleeping. It is attached directly to your bed. It also has a small barrier that allows you can see your baby and reach him.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby sleeps comfortably, regardless of the kind of sleeper you choose. This means making sure that the crib is solid and level, with no gaps between the mattress and your baby's bed. Some co-sleepers have soft surfaces and fluffy padding which can put your baby at risk of SIDS. We suggest using a mattress protector to prevent any sliding.
Breathability is another important feature to take into consideration. Some of the top models we've reviewed for this review, like the babybay Bedside Sleeper as well as Snoo Smart Sleeper, feature breathable mesh sides that offer excellent ventilation, while protecting your baby's safety. A number of other models, such as the Baby Delight and HALO BassiNest Essentia, also offer excellent ventilation.
If your bedside sleeper offers a tilt feature, this can be beneficial to babies with digestive issues or reflux. Some of the best sleepers we've found, such as the HALO Swivel BassiNest Sleeper 3.0 has a slight tilt that can be helpful to your baby while minimizing the chance of suffocation as well as falling.
While some parents may opt for a regular bassinet, many parents prefer the bedside sleeper. These types of beds are attached directly to the mattress of the parent, making it easy to reach your baby for feedings or to snuggle during the night. Bedside sleepers are also a possibility to use in the method of rooming-in, also known as co-sleeping. This helps reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome, and encourages parents and babies to connect.
In the end, it's down to each family to decide what's best for them. We hope that this guide will help in your search for the ideal baby bedside sleeper for your baby. Whether you choose a bedside co sleeper or a standard bassinet, be sure to adhere to the recommended safe sleep guidelines, as recommended by the AAP to avoid any potential hazards. Good luck!
Design
A baby bedside co sleeper --also called a sidecar co-sleeper or bassinet for bedside--is an alternative that is safe to cribs that are traditional and allows parents to co-sleep with their newborn. It is attached to the side of the bed a parent sleeps in and creates an extension of their mattress, where babies can be easily reachable for feeding and resting at night. This kind of room sharing reduces the chance of SIDS and other infant hazards but is also a great way to keep the baby within reach.
There are a number of different co sleepers on the market, and it is important to select one that meets your family's needs. Certain co-sleepers are more expensive and include more features. Others are more budget friendly. But safety is the top priority regardless of the model you pick. Research certifications, reviews and safety concerns for every model you are thinking about.
The top choices for co-sleepers for infants are the Snoo Smart sleeper, Baby Delight's Beside me Dreamer and the BassiNest from HALO Essentia. These models have the breathable mesh and a minimal stretch of solid fabric to ensure that the baby's bed is comfortable. There aren't any gaps or compressions that could impede airflow. The babybay bedside sleeping option is another great choice. It has a design that resembles a crib and it is adjustable in height to ensure the ideal fitting.
A bassinet or co-sleeper, can provide a secure space for infants. The womb-like feeling of the bassinet can help them to sleep better and create a stronger bond with their parents. Additionally, having a bedside sleeper provides the convenience that many parents require to breastfeed or bottle feed at night without leaving their bed. The models mentioned above all have a sleek, stylish appearance that blends well with any bedroom decor. These models are also easy to clean and set up and are a great option for parents who wish to snuggle with their infant.
Value
A bedside sleeper is a great way to keep your baby close throughout the night. It can help you establish an improved connection with your child and increase their overall development. It can also make it easier to wake up for diaper changes and feedings which can help you sleep more as well.
When you are choosing a bedside sleeper, look for one that folds easily and serves multiple purposes. Some options can be transformed into a play yard or deeper bassinets, for instance. You should also take into consideration the quality of the sleep surface as a lot of models utilize polyurethane foam. Be sure to look for claims about eco-friendly like low VOC and hypoallergenic, as well as GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certified.
You may also need to think about your long-term plans, as your baby may need to move to a crib within a few months. A co-sleeper, or bassinet could be the best option as it allows you to stay close to your baby, and it will ease the transition from your bed to your nursery. This kind of arrangement for sleeping also referred to as rooming-in, is believed by some to enhance a baby's senses and sleeping habits.