Safe sleep for babies: Tips for contact sleeping, co-sleeping, and bed safety

What is contact sleep?

When it comes to a baby's sleep, parents want the best and safest — but it is not always easy to know how to achieve that. From contact sleep to bed-sharing with your little one, it is important to understand how to keep your child safe while also getting enough rest.

Contact sleep refers to a situation where your baby sleeps while touching or being held by a caregiver — most often on your chest or in your arms. Many parents rely on contact naps, especially with newborns who are comforted by closeness.

Advantages:

• Helps regulate the baby's temperature and heart rate
• Supports bonding
• Often leads to longer and calmer sleep

Disadvantages:

• Can be exhausting for parents
• Is not safe if you fall asleep during the sleep
• Difficult transitions of the child into the crib

Safety tip: If you practice contact sleep, make sure you are fully awake and alert, and that your baby is in a safe sleeping position.

Is bed-sharing safe?

Bed-sharing (the baby sleeping in the same bed as the parents) is a common practice around the world — but it can raise safety concerns.

Properly done bed-sharing can support easier breastfeeding and improve sleep for both parents and baby. However, safe bed-sharing practices are essential:

• Use a firm mattress with tightly fitted sheets
• No pillows, heavy blankets, or soft toys near the baby
• Always place the baby on their back to sleep
• Make sure there are no gaps where the baby could get trapped

Safer bed-sharing with bed barriers

One of the best ways to share a bed safely is to create a protected space on the bed. Products such as side barriers or guards can offer peace of mind.

Complete bed safety setup for families that share a bed

If you are planning long-term bed-sharing, creating a safe crib-like sleep zone on your bed may be the solution.

This setup provides a 360-degree safety barrier, which is ideal for toddlers or children who move a lot during sleep.

Quick checklist: Baby bed safety

Whether you practice contact sleep, bed-sharing, or are transitioning to crib sleep, use this checklist:

• Baby sleeps on their back
• Only a firm mattress
• No loose bedding or pillows
• Keep the bed surface free of clutter
• Avoid falling asleep with the baby on sofas
• Consider using safety guards or barriers

Final thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for a baby's sleep. Whether you are in the contact sleep stage or looking for safe bed-sharing solutions, the key is to be informed and put safety first.

Your baby's sleep should bring peace — to them and to you.