It's Time To Expand Your Bedside Baby Bed Options
Bedside Baby Beds
Baby cribs that can be set next to the bed allow parents to keep their baby close during the night without compromising safety. They are designed specifically for newborns and are suitable for use up to 6 to 4-6 months.
The Halo Bassinest is a swivel-over-the parent's bed that has an end that can be lowered so that parents can take their baby into the crib during nighttime feedings. The base cannot be placed under beds that are less than 4.5" high.
Safety features
A crib at bedside allows parents to watch, comfort, and feed their babies throughout the night without having to leave their bed. This type of arrangement is ideal for new mothers recovering from childbirth or those with limited mobility and may help parents remain more rested throughout the night. It is important to consider the safety features when buying an infant crib.
The primary safety concern for this type of sleep surface is that it's not a complete barrier between the parent's bed and the infant sleeping area, resulting in gaps that could cause dangers of suffocation to infants. In addition sharing the bed with an infant increases the parent's body heat and raises the risk of overheating which could lead to SIDS.
While some manufacturers claim bedside co-sleepers have a higher safety rating than traditional cribs, these products aren't subject to the the safety standards of the CPSC. bedside cot for twins can have slats which allow the baby's head or legs to become trapped. Their attachment mechanisms may be unstable, leading to separation.
Additionally, many of these mattresses contain loose bedding that could cause the suffocation. Babies aren't strong enough or have the coordination to untangle themselves from bedding that is soft. The gaps between the frame and mattress can also create a suffocation risk. Some of these items have a hard base that could cause injury to a baby if they fall upon it. One commenter suggested the CPSC include pictograms as warnings on these products. This could reduce the chance that caregivers miss key elements. Bedside sleepers must have a smooth transition system that stops the baby from slipping off the mattress of their parents.
Bedding
A bedside crib (also called a bassinet or co-sleeper) allows infants to sleep beside their parents' beds while maintaining a separate space. This type of safe co-sleeping reduces the risks of entrapment, suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by keeping infants close to their parents and within arms' reach for middle-of-the-night feedings or for comforting.
Baby bedding to sleep on the bed could include bumpers and crib sheets. It could also include stuffed animals and blankets. Make sure the bedding you select fits the baby's bed properly. This will stop pockets or bulges from blocking the baby's airway. Make sure that the mattress you buy for your sleeping baby is firm and firmly fitted without gaps around the edges.
When choosing bedding sets, look for a set that is easy to wash and dry to keep it clean when your baby has accidents or spits during the night. You might also want to consider a travel kit for your bedside sleeper, so you can easily carry it around when you travel with your family or visit your grandparents' homes.
Once your infant outgrows their bedside sleeper, it is possible to change them to a stand-alone toddler or a crib. When transitioning, be sure to move the crib away from the bed of your parent over several weeks or months so that your infant can become comfortable sleeping in their own space while still feeling connected to their parents. Pick a crib that is able to be folded for storage and transportation. Some models can be converted into a play area or a more substantial bassinet. This makes them a great option for parents with young children who like to travel.
Tilt function
A bedside sleeper is a bassinet which attaches to the side of the adult bed and has one side higher than the other and allows parents to reach over to take care of their child during the night. It could also come with a tilt function that can aid in easing reflux in infants. Some parents find this feature helps their child sleep better. It is important to remember that a slanted or elevated, sleeping surface could stimulate your baby's chin into a the chest position. This can lead to death and should be avoided.
A good mattress is a key factor in choosing the right crib for your child's bed. It should be firm and flat and airy. The size should correspond to the dimensions of the crib and fit snugly within the frame. It is best to purchase a new mattress for the crib, as a second-hand mattress can increase the chance of SIDS. If you can, it's recommended to purchase mattresses that are designed specifically for specific bedframes.
Some bedside cribs are designed to be tucked under your bed to conserve space and keep your baby close, such as the Halo BassiNest. Some beds aren't tall enough to accommodate this kind of crib. The BassiNest's legs with splayed feet make it difficult to slide under some beds. It's also difficult to tuck it under a divan bed, which could cause it to rock or move out of alignment with the mattress.
Other cribs for bedside use like the Ingenuity Dream & Grow Bedside Bassinet, can be set up beside your mattress, but aren't able to tilt. CHOICE recommends that parents use these beds if they have a solid, breathable bed. The tilt of a bassinet can encourage your child to fall into a risky position, increasing their risk of suffocation.
Foot-to-foot positioning
A bedside baby bed, also called a co-sleeper, or bassinet, is a compact crib that attaches to the side of a bed for an adult. This allows parents to have access to their child at any time during the night. They are generally larger than traditional bassinets or cots. Some have a lower edge, which creates a barrier between the sleeping areas. They are constructed of solid materials and have wheels to make them easier to move around the home.
Some bedside cribs come with tilting features that help babies who suffer from digestive issues like colic or reflux. It is important to make use of this feature with utmost care and at a small angle to avoid being suffocated. If you're not sure whether you should make use of this feature, talk to your physician or health care professional for advice.
The mattress is another important safety factor to take into account when choosing a crib for your child's bedside. To minimize the risk of SIDS, the mattress must be flat, firm and breathable. A mattress that is too firm can result in an obstruction in the airway of newborns, which is dangerous. A mattress that is breathable can help your child remain cool at night, reducing the risk of overheating.
It is recommended that you place your baby in a safe sleeping space such as crib, cot, or Moses basket. It could be appealing to sleep in the same bed with your baby however this could lead to SIDS. It is recommended to wait until your baby is old enough to sleep independently before you attempt to co-sleep. If you must ensure that your bedroom is smoke-free to protect your child from second-hand smoke. If you're on a lower income, you may be eligible for assistance with a bassinet or a crib from Plunket.
Second-hand cribs
Frugal-minded parents may be tempted to purchase or take an old crib, bassinet or cradle for a gift from a relative or friend. However, cribs are one of the leading causes of death due to nursery products especially if they are damaged or missing parts or wider spaces between slats (which could create suffocation dangers). Additionally, older mattresses can develop dips and other issues that can be hazardous for your baby. If your crib is too old to meet current safety standards, it may be contaminated with lead paint or other harmful chemicals.
If you are considering purchasing a used crib, be sure to check if it has been recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. It's also a good idea to check whether the crib was painted with water-based paint, which is safer for babies than phthalic or oil paint. Make sure the mattress is firm and that it fits snugly. Babies are prone to slip out of soft mattresses and also could pose a danger of suffocation.
In addition to cribs, pay close attention to any secondhand bassinets, cradles, and play yards. They should all be JPMA certified and contain no sharp parts that your child can poke or scratch themselves on. Avoid adding toys, pillows or blankets with these products. They can become entrapment hazard.
Children have died in cribs that were altered or played with. Most of these accidents occurred when parents or caregivers attempted to make the cribs more functional or more attractive by adding or altering things. Since 1973, crib manufacturers and the CPSC have teamed up to set mandatory standards for cribs that are safer, and have addressed issues like side height, corner posts, mattress fit and cutouts in end panels. In the last few years the number of deaths attributed to cribs has decreased from 150 to 200 a year to just 50.
