Brady Streeton

Choosing Between a Baby Bedside Co Sleeper and a Bassinet

New parents face many options when it comes to newborn sleep. Some parents are considering co-sleeping, which the AAP warns against because of suffocation risk. Others would like to be capable of reaching their baby to change diapers or feeds in the middle of the night.

A baby bedside co sleeper is a great alternative to a crib or a bassinet that can be attached to the side of the parent's bed for safe and convenient access. MFM home testers were awed by the stylish, functional design of this alternative.

Safety

The bedside co-sleeper, sometimes known as a sidecar, is a safe option for infant sleep that allows newborns to sleep close to their parents without putting them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It's part of the rooming-in procedure, which is used in hospitals to help babies form a bond with their parents, even as they're still learning to soothe themselves. When choosing a sleep solution parents should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both bedside cot newborn co sleepers and regular bassinets.

The most important aspect of a baby bedside co sleeper is safety. Look for models with rigid frames that are breathable, with no loose parts that could create the risk of choking. Consider models that can be washed to ensure easy cleaning. Also, ensure that the mattress is level and firm, without any blankets or pillows, since this can reduce the chance of a risk of accidental suffocation.

The unit's accessibility from the bed of the parents is a further security factor. This will allow for feedings at night and easier monitoring of the baby's health while they sleep. In contrast, some regular bassinets are situated far enough from the parent's bed that they may require a step up to access the sleeping area.

The proximity of parents to their children is another factor that many are considering when deciding between a bedside co sleeper vs bassinet. Some parents like the close physical bond that co sleepers provide, while others are concerned about the risk of suffocation or roll-off risks associated with bed-sharing. Some of the highest-rated bedside sleepers, like the babybay bedside co sleeper and the Snoo smart sleeper are designed to alleviate these worries with a wood-slat design that mimics the cribs where infants were born, as well as a swaddle sack that prevents them from moving about in their sleep.

Take a look at the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Cosleeper if you're not sure about the dangers of co-sleeping. This bassinet-style co sleeper creates a safe and secure environment for sleeping by connecting directly to the side of your bed with a narrow barrier that lets you view and reach your baby.

Comfort

Regardless of what kind of sleeper you select it's crucial to ensure that your baby sleeps comfortably. That means ensuring that the crib is firm and flat with no gaps between the mattress and your baby's sleeping surface. Some bedside co sleepers use soft surfaces or fluffy padding which could put your baby at risk of SIDS. This is why we recommend using a mattress cover to help prevent any sagging or gaps.

Another crucial aspect to think about is breathability. Certain models we have tested for this review come with mesh sides that have breathable mesh that allows your baby to breathe while remaining secure. Other models, like the Baby Delight and HALO BassiNest Essentia, also offer excellent airflow.

If your bedside sleeper offers a tilt feature, this can be beneficial for babies with digestive issues or reflux. Some of the best choices we could find, such as the HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 have the option of a slight tilt that could be beneficial for your baby, while minimizing the risk of suffocation and falling.

Some parents prefer a bassinet attached to the bed, while others prefer a bed that is connected to the bed. These models can be attached to the parent's bed, allowing them to easily reach their baby during middle-of-the-night feedings and comforting. Bedside sleepers are also a possibility to use in the method of rooming-in, also known as co-sleeping. This reduces the chance of sudden infant death syndrome and helps parents and their babies to bond.

In the end, it's down to each family to decide which is best for them. However, we hope this guide has been helpful when you are searching for the perfect bedside sleeper for your infant. To stay clear of any dangers, no matter if you choose either a bassinet or bedside co-sleeper make sure you follow the AAP's safe sleeping guidelines. Good luck!

Design

A baby foldable bedside crib sleeper, also called a sidecar co-sleeper, bassinet or bedside bassinet--is a safe alternative to traditional cribs and allows parents to co-sleep with their newborn. It attaches to the side of a bed for parents, and essentially creates an extension of their mattress where babies can easily be reached for feeding or comforting at night. This type of room sharing reduces the chance of SIDS and other risks for infants as well as makes it much easier to keep an eye on baby.

There are many different co sleepers on the market, therefore it is important to select one that best suits the needs of your family. Some offer more features than others, and others are more budget-friendly. However, safety must be the primary consideration no matter what you decide to purchase. Make sure to research reviews and certifications as well as safety concerns for the particular model you're looking at.

The top picks for baby bedside co sleepers include the Snoo Smart Sleeper, Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer, and HALO BassiNest Essentia. These models are made of the breathable mesh and a minimal stretch 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 cot wooden sleeper is a great alternative, with an appearance similar to a crib that is traditional and some height adjustability for a "just right" size.

A bassinet, also known as a co-sleeper, can provide an environment that is safe for infants. The womb-like ambiance of the bassinet can help them sleep better and form bonds with their parents. A bedside sleeper can also allow parents to breastfeed or bottle feed their babies at night without needing to get out of bed. The models listed above all have a sleek and stylish look that works well with any bedroom decor. They're also easy to arrange and tidy, making them an ideal option for parents who need a convenient method of sleeping with their baby.

Value

A wooden bedside cot sleeper can be a wonderful method to keep your baby close throughout the night. It can help you build bonds that are stronger and improve the overall development of your child. It makes it easier for you to get up and feed your child and change diapers.

Choose a sleeper that folds easily and can serve multiple purposes. Certain models can be transformed into a play area or a deeper bassinet. It is also important to consider the quality of the sleep surface, as many models use polyurethane foam. Look for eco-health claims, such as low VOC and hypoallergenic or GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex certification.

You might also want to consider your long-term plans, as your baby will likely need to move to an infant crib within the next few months. A bassinet, or co-sleeper could be the best option as it allows you to be close to your baby, and it will make it easier to transition from your bed to your nursery. This kind of arrangement is also known as rooming in and is believed to improve baby's sleep habits as well as sensory acuity.