The AAP’s stance is clear: Never bed-share with your baby.
However, real-world studies suggest that bed-sharing is very common—and, when done carefully, it can be made safer.
📌 Here’s what research tells us:
✔️ In countries where bed-sharing is normalized (Japan, Sweden), SIDS rates are among the lowest in the world.
✔️ Hazardous sleep environments—not bed-sharing alone—are the biggest risk factors.
✔️ Breastfeeding + safe bed-sharing has been shown to help regulate infant breathing & temperature.
🚨 Bed-Sharing Is More Dangerous If:
❌ A parent smokes, drinks, or uses sedatives.
❌ Baby sleeps on a soft mattress, couch, or armchair.
❌ Parents are excessively overtired and less aware of baby.
📌 If You Choose to Co-Sleep, Follow These Safer Bed-Sharing Guidelines:
✔️ Firm mattress, no pillows or loose blankets near baby.
✔️ Baby sleeps on their back, close to a parent but not between two adults.
✔️ No smoking, alcohol, or medications that cause drowsiness.
✔️ Make sure baby cannot fall off the bed or get trapped.
📌 Pro Tip: The “Cuddle Curl” position (parent sleeps in a protective C-shape around baby) is commonly used in safe co-sleeping cultures.
💡 Related Post: Newborn Sleep Deprivation: How to Cope & Get More Rest
Common Sleep Products That Are Actually Dangerous
Many sleep-related products marketed to parents are not actually safe.
🚨 Unsafe Sleep Products:
❌ DockATot / Snuggle Me Organic – These loungers are NOT safe for sleep.
❌ Inclined Sleepers (Rock ‘n Play, Bouncers) – Can cause positional asphyxia.
❌ Crib Bumpers & Weighted Blankets – Increased suffocation risk.
❌ Soft or Memory Foam Mattresses – Baby’s face can sink in, increasing SIDS risk.
📌 Safe Sleep Surfaces:
✔️ Cribs & Bassinets with flat, firm mattresses.
✔️ Pack ‘n Plays that meet safety standards.
✔️ Bedside Sleepers (for parents who want close proximity but separate sleep space).
💡 Related Post: Newborn Jaundice: What to Watch For & When to Seek Help
What About Contact Naps?
📌 Holding your baby while they sleep is NOT dangerous—but be mindful of how and where.
✔️ Safe: Baby sleeping on a parent while they’re awake and alert.
❌ Risky: Parent falling asleep with baby on a couch, recliner, or bed with soft bedding.
📌 If You’re Falling Asleep Holding Baby:
✔️ Lie down in a safe environment rather than risking falling asleep in a chair.
✔️ Set an alarm to wake you in case of accidental dozing.
✔️ Have a backup caregiver if you’re extremely sleep-deprived.
💡 Related Post: Newborn Bonding: How to Build a Strong Connection with Your Baby
When to Worry About Sleep Issues
🚩 Call Your Pediatrician If:
❌ Baby stops breathing or turns blue while sleeping.
❌ Baby always prefers to sleep in an upright position (could indicate reflux or airway issues).
❌ Baby has irregular breathing or pauses longer than 10 seconds.
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re worried about SIDS risk, consider using a breathing monitor (such as the Owlet or Nanit) for peace of mind—just know that these do not replace safe sleep practices.
💡 Related Post: Cluster Feeding Explained: What It Is & Why It’s Normal
Birthify’s Expert Support for New Parents
💛 Confused by conflicting sleep advice? Wondering if bed-sharing is right for you? Birthify’s newborn specialists provide real-time sleep guidance so you can make informed decisions that work for your family.
👉 Join Birthify today and get expert-led newborn support! Sign up here