Bed sharing

Some care givers choose to sleep in a bed with their baby, perhaps to support breastfeeding, or to provide reassurance to baby. Whatever the reason for bed sharing, there are some important things to remember:

• Keep baby free from pillows, loose sheets, blankets or any other items that could obstruct your baby’s breathing or cause them to overheat. A high proportion of babies who die while sleeping are found with their head covered by loose bedding.
• Do not let pets or other children in the bed with baby.
• Make sure baby won’t fall out of bed or get trapped between the mattress and the wall.
• Never leave a baby alone in the bed as they are at risk of falling out or wriggling into a dangerous position.

• If you bring baby into the bed during the night wake anyone else in the bed to let them know what you are doing to help stop them accidently rolling on to baby.

The safest place for a baby to sleep is in their own clear, flat, separate sleep space, such as a cot or Moses basket. Sharing a bed with an adult is a significant risk for babies born prematurely or at a low birthweight, which is common in multiples.