Baby won't sleep in own bed — only in our bed

Co-Sleeping vs. Own Bed — Both Can Be Right

In short: If your baby sleeps better with you and you all get more rest, that's okay. What matters is SAFETY, not where your baby sleeps.

Why Babies Sleep Better in Parents' Bed

• Proximity regulates: Baby's heartbeat, breathing, and temperature are stabilized by closeness
• Evolutionarily normal: In 90% of cultures worldwide, babies sleep with their parents
• Lower cortisol: Studies show lower stress hormones when babies are physically close
• Practical for nursing: Nighttime feeding is much easier

Safe Co-Sleeping (the 7 Rules)

If you sleep together, do it SAFELY:

1. Firm mattress — no waterbeds, no sagging mattresses
2. No blankets/pillows near baby — baby in a sleep sack
3. Not on the couch — that's the most dangerous sleep environment
4. No substances — no alcohol, no sleeping pills, no cannabis
5. Don't smoke — smoking households have increased SIDS risk
6. Baby between mother and wall — not between both parents
7. Bedside sleeper as a compromise — separate sleep surface but right next to your bed

Gentle Transition if Desired

• Bedside sleeper as an intermediate step (own space, same closeness)
• Gradually: Start with naps in own bed, nights still with you
• Worn t-shirt in baby's bed (your scent is calming)
• Timing: Many families successfully transition around 1-2 years old

What Other Moms Say

"We stopped fighting it and got a bedside sleeper. Now everyone finally sleeps."

This information does not replace medical advice.