Room-Sharing Without Bed-Sharing: The Six-Month Rule
Discover why the AAP recommends your baby sleep in your room for at least six months—cutting SIDS risk in half.
The AAP recommends your baby sleep in the same room as you, but in their own crib or bassinet, for at least the first six months of life—ideally the first year. Research shows room-sharing without bed-sharing can reduce SIDS risk by as much as 50%.
When your baby is close but on a separate sleep surface, you can respond quickly to distress without the hazards of bed-sharing—soft bedding, pillows, or the risk of rolling over. Your baby benefits from your proximity while remaining safe on their own firm surface.
Room-sharing also has practical benefits. You can monitor your baby throughout the night and respond immediately to any signs of distress. For breastfeeding families, room-sharing makes nighttime feeds far easier and supports milk supply.
As your baby grows past six months, you can gradually transition them to their own room when both of you are ready. Some families room-share longer, and that is perfectly fine. The key is starting with proximity during this critical early period.
Based on guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, and CDC. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
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