Everything you should know about co-sleeping

Co-sleeping benefits

The ease of breastfeeding is the most popular motivation for co-sleeping. Compared to newborns who sleep alone, bed sharing babies are more likely to be nursed and to breastfeed more frequently.

Because you can react to your baby's needs more immediately when you're co-sleeping, breastfeeding usually goes more smoothly.

For the first six months, breastfed newborns who sleep with their parents typically do so in the same room, which has been shown to lower the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Disorder (SIDS). Additionally, co-sleeping gives you and your baby extra time together, which can be soothing for the both of you. Some families think it might even strengthen your bonds with one another.

Babies may cry in their cots because they find it difficult to go to sleep without their parents in close proximity. Co-sleeping can help you respond to your baby more quickly, calm them down more easily, and ideally get adequate sleep at the same time.

Cons of co-sleeping

There are a few things you need to take into consideration before choosing to co-sleep with your baby.

Even though SIDS is uncommon, the risk is significantly higher when you share a bed if you or your partner:

• Are under the influence of alcohol

• Smoke or use e-cigarettes

• Have consumed any drowsy-inducing medications

Additionally, stay away from sharing a bed if:

• Your newborn is less than three months old.

• Your child was born early (born earlier than 37 weeks)

• Your infant was born with a low weight (less than 2.5kg or 5.5lbs).

Although it's special to cuddle with or feed your baby next to you, sleeping with your infant on a sofa or armchair has been related to an increased risk of SIDS.

However, the scientific community is not entirely sure what is the best way to facilitate sleep for infants. For example, a study conducted in 2015 showed that mothers who practised co-sleeping reported more nocturnal awakenings and lower sleep quality in their infants than those who slept in their cots.

How to co-sleep safely

Babies should sleep in an area that is free of obstructions, which can be easily created in a crib or Moses basket. Although some families prefer to share, you should take extra care to make your bed a safer environment for your child whether you decide to or end up falling asleep together. To co-sleep more securely:

• Keep all objects that can impede your baby's breathing or cause them to overheat, such as pillows, sheets, and blankets, away from them. Many babies who pass away from SIDS are found with their heads covered in unsecured bedding.

• Don't allow animals or other youngsters to sleep in the bed.

• Ensure that the child won't roll off the bed or become wedged in between the mattress and a wall.

• Visit the NHS guidelines for safer co-sleeping.

Co-sleeping bedroom ideas

Create a separate sleeping area for baby

To make sure your baby's breathing is never hindered while co-sleeping, a safe sleep environment is necessary. For this reason we recommend a separate sleeping place.

The best solution for this is an "apart yet together" alternative, such as the next to me cots that most baby retailers offer and attach to your bed. Alternatively, you may set a Moses basket next to the bed.

Practise breastfeeding lying on your side

Breastfeeding while lying down is not only very comfortable, but it is also safer when co-sleeping. If you decide to breastfeed in bed, lie down. This will lessen the risk if you and baby fall asleep (the chances of SIDS are higher if you fall asleep while sitting).

Use a firm mattress 

Soft bedding and furnishings should be avoided when co-sleeping. The only choice is a firm mattress with a close-fitting sheet, this avoids any loose bedding obstructing the airways of your baby.

Sleep in a ‘C’ position

You may readily feel and see your baby when you co-sleep in a C-curl position. Your body also serves as a barrier of defence. You are much more likely to notice your baby moving if you are curled around them in this way, and being so near to them makes it easier for you to awaken when they need you.

Your infant will feel the most comfortable when sleeping in this posture. Imagine that your body is acting like a baby bouncer when you are sleeping in the c-curl posture. Your baby will feel secure and at ease enough to get a good night's sleep by being next to you, hearing and sensing your breathing, and feeling your touch.