.png)
March 10th - 16th 2025 is Safe Sleep Week so it felt like a good time to talk about co-sleeping
In the past co-sleeping was something that was generally advised against due to the potential risks associated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, this is outdated advice and recent studies have found that co-sleeping does not pose any additional risk to your little one so long as it is done safely. Around 50% of parents will co-sleep at some stage and so nowadays talking about co-sleeping and educating parents on how to co-sleep is much safer than pretending it doesn’t happen or advising people to avoid doing it.
For some co-sleeping, or bed sharing is an instinctual choice as a way of nurturing your baby and creating a close bond. For other parents it is perhaps not something that was intended but becomes a necessity due to frequent night feeds or wakes and is simply more practical. Regardless of your reasons the main thing is ensuring you follow safe sleep practices to keep your baby safe.
In the UK it is recommended to follow the evidence-based safe sleep guidelines from The Lullaby Trust, a UK-based charity that focuses on reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). You can find all the latest safe sleep advice on their website: https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk
Why might parents choose to co-sleep?
Improved bonding: Co-sleeping can help babies form a secure attachment and creates a close bond with their parent/caregiver. Having your baby close by can promote emotional security, especially during the early months when your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb (plus tiny cuddles are magical).
It can be more convenient: For breastfeeding mums particularly, having your baby in the same bed can make those night feeds (or cluster feeds) easier, reducing the need for you to fully wake up or get out of bed.
Comfort for baby: Babies love to be snuggled into their parents and as a result will often sleep better when they are all cosy next to you. If you are an exhausted parent you will likely go with whatever option is going to result in the most sleep.
Better sleep for parents: Some parents find they get better sleep because they are not as worried about hearing their baby cry or having to get up frequently.
What are the potential risks of co-sleeping?
While the emotional and logistical benefits of co-sleeping are clear, there are risks associated with it that every parent should be aware of, especially in the first year of life:
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS): The primary concern with co-sleeping is the risk of SIDS, especially in babies under 6 months. Research has shown that the risk of SIDS is higher when babies share a bed with an adult, particularly if the adult is a smoker, has been drinking, or is excessively tired.
Accidental suffocation: Babies can sometimes become accidentally suffocated if a parent rolls over onto them or if blankets or pillows obstruct their breathing.
Falls: Babies who are co-sleeping are at risk of falling from the bed, which could cause injury.
Overheating: Babies may overheat if bedclothes or adult body temperature rise too much during co-sleeping. Overheating has been linked to an increased risk of SIDS.
When should you avoid co-sleeping?
If you smoke or drink: If you or your partner smoke, or have been drinking alcohol or taking drugs (including sedatives), it is not safe to co-sleep with your baby. These substances impair your ability to respond to your baby and increase the risk of suffocation.
If your baby was premature or had low birth weight <5.5lbs/2.5kg: A premature or low birth weight baby is likely to have an immature cardiorespiratory system meaning their heart and lungs may not be as strong or adaptable and they may be less likely to wake automatically if struggling to breathe.
If you don’t have an appropriate sleep set up - Never sleep with your baby on a couch or chair - this significantly increases the risk of suffocation, overheating and falls.
How to Co-Sleep Safely: The Lullaby Trust Guidelines
If you choose to co-sleep with your baby, it’s essential to follow safe sleep practices to minimise risks. The Lullaby Trust offers evidence-based guidelines for creating a safe co-sleeping environment. Here’s a summary of their recommendations:
Place baby on their back to sleep: Whether co-sleeping or sleeping in a cot/crib, always place your baby on their back to sleep. This is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Create a safe sleep environment:
No pillows, blankets, or duvet near the baby: Keep the baby’s sleep area free from pillows, heavy blankets, or duvets that could accidentally smother them. Use a firm mattress without any gaps or soft bedding.
Keep the baby close but separate: The safest option is to use a next to me crib that attaches to your bed, keeping your baby close but in their own separate space. This reduces the risks of accidental suffocation while still allowing for easy access during the night.
Ensure baby cannot fall out of bed: Ensure that your baby cannot roll off the bed. Using bed rails or placing the baby in the center of the bed, with no gaps, can help prevent falls.
Room sharing is safer than bed sharing: The Lullaby Trust recommends room-sharing with your baby for the first 6 months rather than bed-sharing. This means having your baby sleep in a crib or bassinet next to your bed. It allows you to respond quickly to your baby’s needs without the added risks of co-sleeping.
Get the temperature right: Overheating is a known risk factor for SIDS. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature (between 16–20°C) and dress your baby in light layers, avoiding heavy blankets or clothing.
Avoid baby falling asleep on you: Particularly if you’re breastfeeding, you may bring your baby into bed for night feeds. Just be sure to return your baby to their own sleep space once the feed is finished, rather than letting them sleep in your arms.
If in doubt remember ABC: Always sleep your baby on their Back in a Clear cot or sleep space
If you’re unsure about how to implement safe sleep practices in your home, or if you’d like personalised advice, feel free to reach out and together, we can create a safe, peaceful sleep routine for you and your little one.
Please follow these links for further information:
When babies start to roll: lullabytrust.org.uk/ sleepingposition
Premature babies: lullabytrust.org.uk/premature
Slings: rospa.com/home-safety/ advice/product/baby-slings
For guidance on safer sleep for twins, triplets or more: twinstrust.org
Comments