Where Should Newborns Sleep?

Sleep is important for babies, and we often put them to sleep based on our judgment. Parents are always told to let your baby sleep wherever they get sound sleep. But is that really good advice? If you have just given birth, have you given much thought as to where your little munchkin would sleep? Would it be on your bed, in the same room, or have you arranged a different room with a beautiful bassinet for your baby?

Let’s Look At The Facts

An estimated 3,500 babies die every year in the United States due to sleep-related deaths (1). It could be due to accidental suffocation or strangulation. So what can you do to reduce the risk of Sleep-Related Infant Deaths?

The American Academy of Pediatrics states that babies should sleep in the same room as you, but on a different surface such as a bassinet or a crib. You should never let your baby sleep on a soft surface, couch or an armchair. This is to reduce the risk of Sleep-Related Infant Deaths. They further recommend that it’s best to let your baby share your bedroom for at least 6 months to optimally a year after birth.

Some Options For You And Your Baby

Now that you know where your baby is going to sleep, here are a few options for you to choose from:

Play Yards

Play yards are generally safe for babies. They come with breathable mesh fabric on the sides. If your play yard comes with a softer surface, it’s best to avoid them. Make sure that the mattress is thick and firm. You can also purchase a separate mattress and place it in the play yard. Just make sure that it fits the play yard without leaving any gaps on the sides. If there are any toys, make sure they are attached properly and positioned in a place where the baby cannot reach.

Bassinets

There are different varieties of bassinets for you to choose from. You can purchase a traditional design with frills or choose a modern one that looks sleek. Many latest designs come with breathable fabric on the side, like mesh. Avoid buying bassinets with wheels that you cannot lock. It poses the risk of being rolled over or pushed by a sibling.

Cradle

Cradles are a classic. But their rocking feature can pose a threat as your baby can roll over and sleep on their stomach or side. If you are a cradle lover, buy one that has a locking system where you can stop the cradle from rocking while your little one is asleep. Also, make sure that you never leave your baby alone in a rocking cradle.

Rocking Sleepers

Rocking sleepers are quite popular among parents as they offer several features like rocking, music, or vibration to calm your little one. But it’s best to avoid them when you put your baby to sleep. Babies will have a hard time transitioning to a non-rocky sleep environment if they are accustomed to it. So it’s best to use it to calm your baby when they are crying or to entertain them.

Cribs

Unlike bassinets, play yards, and rocky sleepers, your baby won’t outgrow a crib. So, if you are looking for an investment in the long run, cribs are the way to go. Look for a crib that has a thick firm mattress. Also, make sure that the sheets are fitted properly and are not loose anywhere.

Before we sign off, here are a few things to keep in mind (2):

• When putting your precious one to sleep, place them on their back

• Make sure that the sleeping surface is firm and thick, where the sheets are tucked in tightly

• Avoid using pillows, blankets or soft toys

• Avoid exposing the baby to smoke, alcohol or drugs

Babies need their sleep just like us, but it also calls for making sure that you are not putting them in a sleeping environment that can cause hazards in your absence. We hope that with little help from our side, you will be able to provide the right sleeping environment for your baby that is both cozy and safe.

One last tip: If you are feeling sleepy when feeding your baby and there’s a possibility of you falling asleep, make sure to move to your bed instead of a couch or a chair.

Take care and sleep tight!

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