Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet

New parents have many options when it comes down to sleeping arrangements for their newborn. Some parents consider co-sleeping, which the AAP cautions against due to the risk of suffocation. Some parents want to be able to reach their baby for diaper changes or feedings during the night.

A baby bedside co sleeper is an alternative to a crib or bassinet that can be attached to the side of the parent's bed to provide secure, easy access. MFM home testers were awed by the practical, stylish design of this alternative.

Safety

The bedside co-sleeper, also known as a sidecar is a secure option for infant sleep that allows newborns to rest with their parents without the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's a component of rooming-in, the practice employed in hospitals to help newborns form bonds with their dad or mom as they learn to self-sooth to sleep. When choosing a sleep solution, parents need to consider the advantages and cons of both travel cot bedside co sleepers and regular bassinets.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a baby bedside co sleeper is safety. Look for models with rigid frames with breathable materials, and no loose parts that could present a choking hazard. Look for models that are machine washable to ensure easy cleaning. Also, ensure that the mattress is flat and firm without blankets or pillows, as this will reduce the risk of a suffocation accident that could happen accidentally.

The unit's accessibility from the bed of the parents is a further security consideration. This will allow for feedings at night and baby bedside co sleeper easier monitoring of the baby's condition as they sleep. Some bassinets are so far from the parents' bed that they require a step to reach the sleeping area.

Proximity to the parents is another aspect that parents are considering when deciding between a bedside crib or cot co sleeper vs bassinet. Some parents like the close physical connection that co sleepers provide, while others are concerned about the possibility 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 travel cot bedside co-sleeper. They have wooden slats that resemble cribs where babies were born and a swaddle-sack which prevents them moving in their sleep.

If you're looking to co-sleep but are unsure about the risk, think about an option like the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Cosleeper. This bassinet-style co sleeper offers a safe and secure environment for sleeping by connecting directly to the bed's side with a narrow barrier that ensures you can view and reach your baby.

Comfort

It's important that your baby rests comfortably, no matter what kind of sleeper you choose. It is essential to ensure that the crib is level and sturdy, with no gaps between the mattress of your baby and the sleeping surface. Some co-sleepers are using soft surfaces and fluffy padding, which could put your baby at risk of SIDS. For this reason, we recommend using a mattress protector to prevent any sagging or gaps.

Breathability is another aspect to take into consideration. Some of the best models we have reviewed in this review, such as the babybay Bedside Sleeper as well as Snoo Smart Sleeper, have ventilated mesh sides that provide excellent ventilation, while keeping your newborn secure. Several other models, like the Baby Delight and HALO BassiNest Essentia, also offer excellent breathability.

Another consideration is whether or not your sleeper offers a tilt option which is beneficial for babies who have reflux or digestive issues. Some of the top choices we could find include the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 have an incline that is slight, which can be beneficial to your baby, while minimizing the risk of suffocation or falling.

While some parents may choose to use a standard bassinet, a lot of parents prefer an infant bed. These models attach to the parent's bed and allow them to reach their baby during middle-of-the-night feedings and comforting. Bedside sleepers can also be used in 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 connect.

It's ultimately up to the individual family to decide what's best for them. However, we hope this guide was helpful as you search for the ideal baby bedside sleeper for your baby. No matter if you opt for a bedside co-sleeper or a standard bassinet be sure to follow the recommended safe sleeping guidelines as suggested by the AAP to avoid any potential hazards. Good luck!

Design

A baby bedside sleeper, also known as a sidecar co-sleeper or bassinet for bedside cot mattress--is an alternative that is safe to cribs that are traditional and allows parents to co-sleep with their baby. It is affixed to the side of the bed that parents sleep in and creates a mattress extension where babies can be easily reached to feed and comfort them during the night. This kind of room sharing reduces the chance of SIDS and other infant hazards but can also make it easier to keep the baby within reach.

There are a myriad of co-sleepers available. It is crucial to select one that suits your family's requirements. Some are more expensive and come with more features. Others are more budget friendly. Safety is the main priority, no matter what product you choose to buy. Be sure to look up reviews and certifications, and also safety concerns for the particular model you're considering.

The top picks for infant bedside co sleepers include the Snoo Smart Sleeper, Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer, and HALO BassiNest Essentia. These models feature breathable mesh and minimal stretching of solid fabric to ensure that the baby's sleeping surface is comfortable. There aren't any gaps or compressions that could impede airflow. The babybay bedside crib with changing table sleep option is another great choice. It has a design similar to a crib, and can be adjusted in height for the perfect fitting.

A bassinet, also known as a co-sleeper, can provide a safe space for newborns. The womb-like feeling of the bassinet will allow them to sleep better and form an even stronger bond with their parents. Additionally, having a bedside sleeper provides the convenience that parents often require to breastfeed or bottle feed at the end of the night without having to get out of bed. The models mentioned above all have a sleek, stylish appearance that blends well with any decor in the bedroom. These models are also simple to clean and set up and are a great option 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 develop an even closer bond with your child as well as enhance their overall development. It helps you wake up to change diapers and feeds and can help you get more sleep as well.

Look for a co-sleeper that folds easily and has many functions. Some models can be converted into a play area or a more spacious bassinet. Take into consideration the quality of the sleeping surface as a lot of models are made with polyurethane. Be sure to look for claims about eco-health, such as low VOC and hypoallergenic or GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certification.

You might also want to think about your long-term plans because your baby may need to move to an infant crib within the next few months. If so, a co-sleeper or bassinet might be the best option, as it allows you to stay near your infant and eases the transition from sleep in your bed to the nursery. This type of sleeping arrangement is also known as rooming-in and is believed to improve baby's sleep habits and sensory differences.