Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet
New parents have a variety of options when it comes down to sleeping arrangements for their newborn. Some parents are considering co-sleeping (which the AAP cautions against due suffocation risks), while others want the convenience of having their infant at arm's reach for middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes.
A crib for the baby can be affixed to the side of a parent's bed for an easy and secure access. MFM home testers were awed by the stylish, functional design of this alternative.
Safety
A bedside co-sleeper or a sidecar bassinet, is a safe option for sleep for babies that allows babies to sleep next to their parents without placing them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's a part and parcel of the rooming-in practice which is used in hospitals to aid newborns establish a connection with their parents, even as they are still learning to self-soothe. Parents should consider the pros and cons of bedside co-sleepers as well as regular bassinets when choosing the best sleep solution.
Safety is the most important feature in a co-sleeper for the baby. Models with sturdy frames and breathable materials are the best. They should also not have any loose parts or parts that can pose a choking risk. A breathable mattress is essential and it is recommended to look for mattresses that can be machine-washed for simple cleaning. Make sure that the mattress is firm and flat without blankets or pillows. This will reduce the chance of suffocation.
Another important safety factor is whether the unit is easily accessible from the bed of the parent. This allows for nighttime feedings and easier monitoring of the baby's condition as they sleep. Contrary to this, some standard bassinets are located far enough away from the bed of the parent that they might require a step-up to reach the sleeping area.
Many parents also take into account the proximity of the bassinet to their bed when choosing between a co-sleeper and bassinet. Some parents prefer the close physical connection that co-sleeping provides and others are worried about the possibility of death or roll-off risk that can be associated with bed-sharing. Some of the most highly-rated bedside sleepers, such as the babybay bedside co sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper, are designed to eliminate the concerns by using an slat-like design that resembles the cribs where babies were born as well as a swaddle sack that prevents them from moving around in their sleep.
If you're considering co-sleeping but aren't sure about the risks, consider an option like the Arm's reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper. wooden bedside cot -style sleeper provides a safe and secure environment for sleeping by attaching directly to the side of your bed with a narrow barrier that allows you to be able to see and reach your baby.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby rests comfortably, no matter what kind of sleeper you choose. That means ensuring that the crib is solid and flat with no gaps between the mattress and the baby's mattress. Some co-sleepers have soft mattresses and fluffy padding which can put your child at risk of SIDS. This is why we recommend using a mattress cover to prevent any sagging or gaps.
Another important feature to consider is the breathability. Some of the models we have tested for this review include mesh sides that are air-tight mesh, which lets your baby breathe while remaining secure. There are other models too, such as the Baby Delight or HALO BassiNest essencetia also provide great ventilation.
If your bedside mattress has a tilt feature it could be beneficial to babies with digestive issues or reflux. Some of the top options we found, such as the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 offers 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 an infant bed. These models are attached to the bed of the parent which allows them to easily reach their baby during middle-of-the-night feedings and reassuring. Bedside sleepers can also be used as part of a safe sleep-sharing practice called rooming-in. This reduces the risks associated with sudden infant death syndrome and encourages bonding between parents and infants.
In the end, it's up to each family to determine what's best for them. We hope this guide will help in your search for the best baby bedside co-sleeper to sleep your baby. To avoid any possible risks, whether you opt for a bassinet or a bedside co-sleeper make sure to adhere to the AAP's safe sleeping guidelines. Good luck!
Design
The baby's bedside co-sleeper (also known as sidecar co-sleeper or bassinet) is a safe alternative for traditional cribs that allow parents to co-sleep safely with their infant. It is attached to the side of a parent's bed, and essentially 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 risk of SIDS and other dangers for infants, but also makes it much easier to monitor the baby.
There are a variety of different co sleepers available on the market, so it's important to choose one that best suits your family's needs. Some are more feature-rich than others, and others are more budget-friendly. However, safety must be the main consideration regardless of the model you pick. Be sure to look up certifications and reviews, and also safety concerns for the model you're considering.
The best co-sleepers that babies can sleep in are the Snoo Smart sleeper, Baby Delight's Beside Me Dreamer and HALO's BassiNest Essentia. These models have breathable mesh and minimal stretching of solid fabric to ensure that the baby's bed is comfortable. There are no gaps or compressions that could impede airflow. The babybay bedside sleep option is a great alternative. It is designed like a crib and can be adjusted in height to ensure the perfect fit.
Newborns feel more secure in smaller spaces, and the baby's womb-like appearance of co-sleepers and bassinets can help them sleep better and build a strong bond with their parents. A bedside sleeper also allows parents to breastfeed or bottle feed their babies at night, without needing to get out of their bed. All of the models mentioned above are sleek and stylish design that is compatible with any decor in the bedroom. These models are also simple to clean and set up and are a great choice for parents who want to snuggle with their infant.
Value
A bedside sleeper allows you to keep your baby close at night. It will help you form an even stronger bond and boost your child's overall development. It makes it easier to get up and feed your child and change diapers.
When you are choosing a bedside sleeper, choose one that folds easily and has multiple functions. Some options can be converted into a play space or a larger bassinet. Take into consideration the quality of the sleeping surface as a lot of models are made using polyurethane. Look for eco-health claims like low VOC and hypoallergenic. GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certified.
Consider your long-term plans as well, as you may have to move your baby to a crib in just a few months. A bassinet or co-sleeper is a good option, since you will be able to be close to your baby, and it can ease the transition from your bed to your nursery. This type of arrangement is also called rooming-in and is believed to improve the baby's sleep habits as well as sensory distinctions.