Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet

When it comes to newborn sleeping, parents of newborns have a variety of options. Some parents are considering co-sleeping (which the AAP cautions against due suffocation risks) and others prefer the convenience of having their baby close to them for feedings and diaper changes.

A baby bedside co sleeper is an alternative to a crib or a bassinet that attaches to the side of the parent's bed for safe and convenient access. The MFM home testers loved the stylish and functional look of this alternative.

Safety

A bedside co-sleeper is also referred to as a sidecar bassinet is an ideal baby sleep solution that allows newborns to sleep next to their parents without putting 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 develop a bond with their parents, even as they are still learning to self-soothe. 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 feature of a baby amazon bedside cot co sleeper is safety. Models with sturdy frames and materials that breathe are ideal. They must also be free of loose parts or parts that could create a choking risk. Consider models that are machine washable to make cleaning easy. Also, make sure the sleeping surface is flat and firm, without any blankets or pillows, since this can reduce the chance of an accidental suffocation hazard.

Another important safety factor is whether the unit is easily accessible from the parent's bed. This allows for easier evening feedings and better supervision of the baby as they sleep. In contrast, some regular bassinets are placed far enough away from the parent's bed that they may require a step to reach the sleeping area.

Many parents also consider the proximity of the bassinet to their bed when choosing between a co-sleeper or a bassinet. Some parents prefer the close physical bond that a co sleeper provides and others are worried about the risk of suffocation or roll-off risks associated with sharing a bed. Some of the most highly-rated bedside sleepers like the babybay bedside sleeper cot co-sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper are designed to remove these concerns with the wood-slat design, which resembles the cribs where infants were born, as well as an swaddle bag that stops them from moving around in their sleep.

If you're considering co-sleeping but are hesitant about the risks, consider an option like the Arm's reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper. This bassinet-style co sleeper offers a safer co-sleeping environment by connecting directly to the side of your bed, with a short barrier that lets you view and reach your baby.

Comfort

It's crucial that your baby rests comfortably, no matter what kind of sleeper you choose. It's essential to ensure that the crib is flat and firm with no gaps between the mattress of your baby and the bed. Some co-sleepers have soft surfaces and fluffy padding which could put your baby at risk of SIDS. This is why we suggest using a mattress cover to prevent any sagging or gaps.

Breathability is another aspect to consider. The top models we have reviewed in this review, such as the Babybay bedside crib with wheels Sleeper and Snoo Smart Sleeper, feature ventilated mesh sides that provide excellent ventilation while keeping your newborn secure. Other models like the Baby Delight or HALO BassiNest essencetia also provide great ventilation.

If your bedside mattress has tilting features it can be beneficial to babies with digestive issues or reflux. Some of the top sleepers we've seen, like the HALO Swivel BassiNest Sleeper 3.0 has an incline that may help your baby, while reducing the chance of suffocation and falling.

While some parents might choose to use a standard bassinet, many prefer an infant bed. These models are attached directly to the mattress of the parent which makes it simple to reach their baby for feedings or to snuggle during the night. bedside cot reviews sleepers can be employed as a part of a secure co-sleeping practice called rooming-in, which reduces the risk of sudden infant deaths and promotes bonding between parents and their babies.

Ultimately, it's up to the individual family to determine what is best for their family. However, we hope this guide has been helpful as you search for the perfect bedside co sleeper for your infant. To avoid any possible risks, whether you opt for an infant bassinet or a bedside co-sleeper, be sure you follow the AAP's safe sleeping guidelines. Good luck!

Design

The baby bedside co-sleeper (also called a sidecar co-sleeper or bassinet) is a safe alternative to traditional cribs that allows parents to co-sleep safely with their newborn. It attaches to the sides of the bed a parent sleeps in and creates an extension of their mattress so that babies can easily be reached for feeding and sleeping. This kind of room-sharing reduces the risk for SIDS and other risks for infants, but also makes it much easier to keep an eye on the baby.

There are a variety of co-sleepers to choose from. It is important to choose one that suits your family's requirements. Some 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 pick. Research certifications, reviews and safety concerns for every model you're considering.

The top choices for co-sleepers for infants are the Snoo Smart sleeper, Baby Delight's Beside Me Dreamer, and HALO's BassiNest Essentia. The mesh is breathable and has minimal stretch of solid fabric in these models ensure that the sleeping surface is comfortable for baby without compression or gaps which could block airflow. The babybay bedside sleep option is another excellent option. It has a design like a crib and can be adjusted in height to ensure the perfect fit.

Newborns feel more secure in small spaces. The womb-like nature of co-sleepers or bassinets can aid them in sleeping better and form a strong bond with their parents. In addition, a bedside sleeping device gives ease of access that many parents need to breast feed or bottle feed their babies at the end of the night without having to get out of the bed. The models listed above have a sleek and stylish design that is compatible with any style of bedroom. These models are also simple to clean and set up, making them a great choice for parents who want to snuggle with their infant.

Value

A bedside crib allows you to keep your child close during the night. It can help you build an even closer relationship with your child and improve their overall development. It also makes it easier to get up to feed your child and change diapers, helping you to sleep better as well.

When selecting a bedside co sleeper, choose one that folds up easily and can be used for multiple purposes. There are a few options that can be transformed into play yard or a deeper bassinet, for example. Take into consideration the quality of the mattress as many models are made using polyurethane. Be sure to look for claims about eco-friendly like low VOC and hypoallergenic. GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certified.

Consider your long-term plans as well, as you might need to transition your baby to a crib in just a few months. If you do, a co-sleeper or bassinet could be the best option, as it lets you stay close to your baby and helps ease the transition from sleep in your bed to the nursery. This type of sleeping arrangement is also called rooming-in and is believed to improve the baby's sleep habits as well as sensory acuity.