One of the most common questions that parents ask us is, “Where should my baby sleep?” If you’ve already asked friends, scrolled through social media, or just talked with your pediatrician, you know there are a lot of different opinions out there. It can feel confusing at times. Who’s right? Learn where your baby should sleep in this article based on my 15+ years as a pediatric sleep consultant.
In this article:
Where Should Baby Sleep?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that the safest place for your newborn to sleep is in your room, but in their own sleep space. That could be a crib, bassinet, co-sleeper, or even a portable play yard. Having your baby nearby makes nighttime feedings and wake-ups easier to manage, while also giving you peace of mind knowing your little one is just an arm’s reach away.
The AAP recommends room-sharing for at least the first six months, and ideally for the first year, since this lowers the risk of SIDS. TO read more about room sharing, take a peek at our article, How Room-Sharing Affects Your Baby’s Sleep.
What About Co-Sleepers?
If you love the idea of being extra close but want your baby in their own space, a co-sleeper (or bedside sleeper) can be a wonderful option. These attach to your bed or sit right next to it, giving your baby a firm, flat surface of their own while still making feedings more convenient. For my family? A co-sleeper was the best option! We felt like we had the best of both worlds: closeness and safety.
Here’s a gentle reminder: if you try one sleep space and it doesn’t work for your baby (or for you!), try a different option. Sometimes it takes a few tries to find the sleep arrangement that fits best.
Where Should Baby NOT Sleep?
In those bleary, middle-of-the-night hours, it might feel easier to let your baby nap in a car seat after a drive, doze in a swing, or curl up on the couch. But these surfaces are not safe. Babies need firm, flat surfaces that protect their airway and prevent falls.
We get a lot of questions about bedsharing! The AAP does not recommend it, but we hear from so many families from around the world who choose to co-sleep or share a sleep space for closeness, convenience, and/or breastfeeding. If you do, make it safer by: using a firm mattress, keeping ALL loose bedding and pillows out of the bed, always placing your baby on their back, and never co-sleep or bedshare on a couch, recliner, or armchair. Avoid bedsharing if you or your partner have had alcohol, smoke, or are on any sedating medication.
Safe Sleep Tips
Here’s a quick list of safe sleep reminders to keep in mind:
- Always place your baby on their back for every sleep — naps and nighttime.
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface covered only by a fitted sheet.
- Keep cribs, bassinets, and co-sleepers completely free of loose items.
- Room-share for at least the first six months.
- If you choose to bedshare, follow safer bedsharing practices.
- Dress your baby in a wearable blanket or sleep sack instead of using loose blankets.
- Avoid overheating — light, breathable layers are best.
You can bookmark our Safe Sleep Tips for Baby article as a handy reference whenever you need a refresher
Choosing where your baby sleeps is deeply personal, and it’s okay if it takes a little trial and error. Whether your little one ends up in a crib, a co-sleeper, or occasionally in your bed, the goal is always the same: safe, peaceful sleep for everyone. So, if one option doesn’t feel right, you’re allowed to change course. You’re not alone! You’re doing an amazing job, and better rest is ahead for you and your baby.
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