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 due to the risk of suffocation. Others would like to be capable of reaching their baby to change diapers or feeds during the night.

A baby bedside co sleeper is an alternative to a crib or a bassinet that is attached to the side of the parent's bed for safe, convenient access. The MFM home testers loved the sleek and practical design of this alternative.

Safety

A bedside sleeper is also referred to as a sidecar bassinet, can be an ideal baby sleep solution that lets newborns sleep right next to their parents without placing them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's a component of rooming-in which is a practice used in hospitals that helps newborns establish a bond with their mom or dad while they're still learning to self-sooth themselves to sleep. When choosing a solution for sleep parents should consider the pros and cons of bedside co-sleepers and standard bassinets.

The most important feature of a baby bedside co sleeper is safety. Models with rigid frames and materials that breathe are ideal. They must also be free of loose parts or parts that could pose a choking risk. Consider models that can be washed to ensure easy cleaning. Also, make sure the mattress is level and firm, without any blankets or pillows, since this reduces the likelihood of a risk of accidental suffocation.

Another safety consideration is whether the unit can be easily reached from the parent's bed. This allows for nighttime feedings and easier monitoring of the baby's status as they sleep. Some bassinets can be located so far away from the parents' bed that they require a step to access the area where they sleep.

Many parents also take into account the proximity of the bassinet to their bed when making a decision between a co-sleeper or a bassinet. Some parents like 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 sharing a bed. Some of the most highly-rated bedside co sleeper cot sleepers, such as the babybay bedside co sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper are designed to alleviate these concerns with an slat-like design that resembles the cribs in which babies were born as well as the swaddle sack, which prevents the infants from moving around during their sleep.

Consider the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper if you are uncertain about the risks associated with co-sleeping. This bassinet-style co sleeper creates an environment that is safer for co-sleeping by attaching directly to the bed's side and a barrier that allows you to see and reach your baby.

Comfort

It is essential that your baby rests comfortably, no matter what type of sleeper you select. This means making sure that the crib is firm and flat with no gaps between the mattress and your baby's sleeping surface. Some co-sleepers are using soft surfaces and fluffy padding which could put your baby at risk of SIDS. To prevent this, we recommend using a mattress protector to prevent any gaps or sagging.

Another aspect to consider is breathability. Some of the top models we have reviewed for this review, like the Babybay Bedside Sleeper and Snoo Smart Sleeper, feature breathable mesh sides that offer great ventilation while still keeping your newborn secure. Several other models, such as the Baby Delight and HALO BassiNest Essentia, also offer excellent ventilation.

If your bedside sleeper has tilt options it could be beneficial for babies suffering from digestive issues or reflux. Some of the best options we've found include the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 offers an incline that is slight, which can be beneficial to your little one while minimizing the risk of suffocation and falling.

While some parents might opt for a regular bassinet, many prefer a bedside sleeper. These models attach directly to the mattress of the parent, making it easy to reach the baby for feedings or comforting in the middle of night. Bedside sleepers may also be employed as a part of a safe co-sleeping practice known as rooming-in. It reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome and encourages bonding between parents and their babies.

In the end, it's up to each family to determine what's best for them. We hope that this guide has been useful when you are searching for the ideal baby bedside sleeper for your infant. No matter if you opt for a bedside co sleeper or a standard bassinet ensure you adhere to the recommended safe sleep guidelines that are recommended by the AAP to avoid any possible 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 allows parents to sleep in a safe environment with their infant. It attaches to the sides of a parent's bed, and essentially creates an extension of their mattress so that babies can easily be reachable for feeding and resting at night. This kind of room-sharing reduces the risk for SIDS and other risks for infants, but also makes it easier to keep an eye on the baby.

There are a number of different co-sleepers available on the market, so it's important to choose one that best suits the needs of your family. Some have more features than others, and some are more budget-friendly. However, safety must be the primary consideration no matter the model you pick. Find reviews, certifications and safety concerns for each model you are thinking about.

The top choices for baby co sleeper bedside cot-sleepers at bedtime include the Snoo Smart Sleeper, Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer and HALO BassiNest Essentia. These models feature air-tight 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 hinder airflow. The babybay bedside sleeper is a great alternative, featuring the same design to a crib that is traditional and some height adjustability for an "just right" fit.

Newborns feel more secure in smaller spaces, and the baby's womb-like appearance of a bassinet or co-sleeper can help them sleep better and form a strong bond with their parents. In addition, having a bedside crib vs cot sleeper provides the ease of access that many parents require to breastfeed or bottle feed their babies at the end of the night without having to get out of 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 which makes them the ideal option for parents who wish to sleep with their child.

Value

A bedside rocking crib sleeper can allow you to keep your baby close during the night. It will help you form bonds that are stronger and improve your child's overall development. It helps you to get up and feed your child, and also change diapers.

When selecting a bedside co sleeper, look for one that folds up easily and serves multiple purposes. Certain models can be transformed into a play space or a more spacious bassinet. Consider the quality of the sleeping surface since a lot of models are constructed using polyurethane. Be sure to look for claims about eco-friendly such as low VOC and hypoallergenic. GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certified.

You might also want to consider your long-term plans because your baby may need to be moved to an infant crib within the next few months. A bassinet, or co-sleeper, may be the best option, since you will be able to remain close to your baby, and it will ease the transition from your bed to your nursery. This kind of arrangement is also called rooming-in and is believed to improve the baby's sleeping habits and sensory differences.