An Arms' Reach Away!

I knew that I wanted an Arm's Reach Co-Sleeper during my pregnancy. I knew that I would breastfeed and would need/want access to my child frequently. I also knew that I did not want him in another room to have to schlep during the night to feed him! Enter the co-sleeper!

This ingenious devices *securely* attaches to your bed via a long fabric insert that goes between your mattress and comes out on the other side and has vertical clippy things that keep it from slipping. You can position it to fit on either the left or right side of the bed. The child has his own space to sleep in, yet is within "Arm's Reach" (hence the name) during sleep. The sleeper has three sides and the fourth side opens to your bed for easy accessibility.

The manufacturer states that the bed is safe and recommended for children up to about four months (or sitting up age). Many people might balk at spending $160 - 180 for something that will only last 4 months. However, it also converts into a changing station *and* play pen, thereby prolonging its usefulness to you and your investment dollars.

The only drawback is that it really isn't all that portable. You can do it, but it's cumbersome. It does come with a durable carrying case (along with instructions, naturally!)

I really, really enjoyed this piece of equipment, and if I had it to do over again, I would definitely use this instead of a crib.