Bedside Baby Beds
Baby cribs that are placed close to the bed allows parents to keep their child close at night, without any risk to safety. They are specifically designed for infants and are suitable for use up to 4-6 months.
The Halo Bassinest is a swivel-over-the-parent's-bed that has the ability to be pushed down so that parents can take their baby into the crib during feeding times at night. However, the base won't fit under beds that are less than 4.5 inches high.
Safety features
A bedside crib lets parents keep their babies close for evening feedings, comforting and monitoring without leaving their own bed. This sleeping arrangement is perfect for mothers who are recovering from birth or for those with limited mobility. It may also help parents sleep better at night. It is important to consider the safety features when buying an infant crib.
bedside baby sleeper with this type of sleeping surface is that it is not a complete barrier between the bed of the parent and the baby's sleeping space which can lead to gaps that could pose dangers of suffocation to infants. Sharing bedside baby bed increases body heat of the parent, which can increase the chance of overheating. This could lead to SIDS.
Although some manufacturers claim that co-sleepers for bedside use to be safer than cribs, they aren't subject to the CPSC safety standards. They may feature slats that permit babies' legs or heads to become trapped, and their attachment mechanisms may be unstable and lead to separation.
Additionally, many of these mattress frames have loose bedding, which can cause suffocation. Babies don't have the muscle or coordination to remove themselves from the tangles of soft bedding and gaps between the mattress and the frame can cause a danger of suffocation. Some of these items have a hard base that could cause injuries to a baby if they fall onto it. One commenter suggested that CPSC include pictograms in its warnings on these products, which would reduce the chances of caregivers missing key elements. Moreover, bedside sleepers should have a smooth transition mechanism to stop the baby from falling off the parent's bed.
Bedding
A bedside crib (also known as a bassinet or co-sleeper) allows babies to sleep next to their parents' beds, while maintaining a separate space. This method of sleeping in a safe manner helps reduce the chance of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by keeping children close to their parents.
Baby bedding for a bedside sleeper can include crib sheets, bumpers, blankets, and stuffed animals. Be sure that the bedding you choose fits the bedside sleeping baby properly. This will prevent pockets or bulges from blocking the baby's airway. Make sure the mattress you choose for your baby's bed is sturdy and secure without any gaps around the edges.
When you are choosing a bedding set, look for something that's easy to wash and dry to keep it clean when your infant has accidents or spits up in the night. Consider a travel kit to simplify the process of packing and unpack your bedside sleeping set when you're on vacation or visiting grandparents.
When your child is no longer a bedside sleeper, you are able to move them to a separate toddler or crib. When you transition, make sure to remove the crib from the bed of your parent over several months or weeks to allow your child to be comfortable sleeping in their own space, while still feeling connected to their parents. Also, make sure you select a crib that you can fold easily for storage and transportation. Some models can even be converted into play yard or a larger bassinet. This makes them a great option for parents who frequently travel.
Tilt function
A bedside sleeper is a bassinet that connects to the side of the adult bed and has one side higher than the other and allows parents to reach out to tend their baby during the night. It may also have a tilt function to aid in easing reflux in babies. Some parents have reported that this feature can help their children sleep better. It is important to note that a slanted, or elevated, sleeping surface could cause your baby's chin to shift to the chest position. This can lead to death and should be avoided.
Choosing a suitable mattress is a different aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib. It must be firm, flat and breathable. The mattress should be the same size as the crib and fit snugly into the frame. A second-hand mattress can increase the chance of SIDS, so it is recommended to buy new crib mattresses. Some retailers offer mattresses designed specifically for specific bed frames therefore it is recommended to stick with these if possible.
Some bedside cribs, like the Halo BassiNest, are designed to be placed under your bed to make space while bringing your child closer. However, some beds are too low for this kind of crib. In addition, the BassiNest's splayed legs make it difficult to slide underneath certain beds. It's also a challenge to place it under a divan bed which could cause it to slide or sway out of alignment with the mattress.
Other cribs for bedside use, such as the Ingenuity Dream & Grow Bedside Bassinet, can be placed beside your mattress, but aren't able to tilt. CHOICE recommends parents to use these beds with a comfortable, firm mattress. The tilt of a bassinet or bedside crib could cause your child to slide into a risky position which increases the chance of the possibility of suffocation.
Foot-to-foot positioning
A bedside crib, also called a bassinet or co-sleeper is a crib that is attached to the side of a bed designed for adults. This allows parents to access their child easily during the night. The beds are typically larger than the traditional cots or bassinets. Some have a lower edge, which creates an obstacle between the sleeping spaces. They are usually made of durable materials, and some have wheels for easy transport around the home.
Some cribs with a bedside have tilt functions that can aid babies with digestive issues like colic or reflux. It is essential to use the tilt function with care and only at a very small angle to prevent suffocation. Talk to your doctor or health care professional if are unsure about using the feature.
Another crucial safety factor to consider when choosing a crib for a bedside is the mattress. The mattress must be firm, flat and breathable, to lower the risk of SIDS. A mattress that is too soft can lead to a trapped airway, which is dangerous for babies. A mattress that is breathable will help your child remain cool during the night, reducing the chance of overheating.
It is recommended to place your baby in a secure sleeping space - crib, cot or Moses basket. It could be tempting to share a bed as your infant, but this can lead to SIDS. It is recommended to wait until your baby is old enough to sleep independently before you attempt to sleep with them. If bedside baby sleeper have to, make sure that your bedroom is smoke-free to protect your child from secondhand smoke. If you're on a lower income, you could be eligible for help with a bassinet or a crib from Plunket.
Second-hand cribs
Parents who are frugal may be enticed to purchase or accept a second-hand crib, bassinet or cradle from a family member or friend. Cribs are one of many nursery products that can cause death, particularly in older cribs that have damaged or missing parts or have a wider space between the slats. Older mattresses may also develop dips and other issues that can be hazardous for your baby. If your crib is too old to meet the safety standards of today, it may be contaminated with lead paint or have other toxic chemicals.
Examine if the crib has been recalled. Check if the crib was coated with water-based paint since this is safer for infants. Also, ensure that the mattress is firm and secure. Babies can easily slide off mattresses that are soft, which also could pose a danger of suffocation.
In addition to cribs, pay special attention to any secondhand bassinets, cradles or play yards. They should all be JPMA certified and contain no sharp elements that your baby can scratch or poke at. Avoid putting pillows, toys or blankets with these products. They could pose an dangerous for entrapment.
Infants have died in cribs that were altered or interfered with. The majority of these deaths occurred when parents or caregivers attempted to make the cribs functional or more attractive by adding or modifying items. Since 1973, crib manufacturers and the CPSC have teamed up to establish standards that are mandatory for safer cribs, including things like side heights, slat spacing, corner posts, mattress fit and cutouts in end panels. As the result, deaths attributed to cribs have dropped from about 150 to 200 per year to less than 50.