Bedsharing is a very nuanced subject - which can make it difficult to speak about online (where little nuance exists!). Whether you agree with bedsharing or not, education regarding bedsharing safety and how to mitigate risk is so important.
The point of this blog post is to continue to share safer bedsharing information, and direct you to other resources where you can get evidenced based information and make an informed decision for your family.
Note that the guidelines may be slightly different depending on where you are in the world. Always look up guidelines in your home country.
1. Bedsharing Safety - Clothing Hazards
The clothes you wear to bed can present potential strangulation or suffocation hazards. Here’s what to avoid:
Singlets with thin straps – These can slip down and create a hazard around the baby’s face or neck.
Dressing gown belts – Loose belts can become tangled, posing a strangulation risk.
Heavy or thick outer layers – Items like plush robes, thick sweaters, or snuggy-style tops can increase the risk of overheating or accidental suffocation if they shift during sleep.
What to wear instead:
Instead, choose breathable fabrics with thick shoulder straps (that do not fall down) or tops with sleeves.
Avoid heavy or thick blanket-type fabrics on your top half. If you need to stay warm, choose a warm close fitting layer e.g thermal wear (you can always cut holes for boob access.
If you want to wear a light breathable robe, remove any belts.
2. Bedsharing Safety - Other Children and Pets
While bedsharing can work for many families, it’s important to be mindful of who is in the bed.
Older babies and children can pose an unintentional risk to younger babies due to their movements during sleep.
Pets should not share a sleeping space with a baby due to the risk of accidental suffocation or overheating.
How to reduce risk:
If you are bedsharing with multiple children, always place a responsible and aware adult between the older child and the younger baby.
Keep pets out of the bed and provide them with a separate sleeping space nearby.
3. Bedsharing Safety - Hair and Jewelry Hazards
Long hair and certain accessories can become entanglement or strangulation hazards.
Long hair can wrap around a baby’s neck or fingers.
Long necklaces can pose a similar risk if they get caught around the baby.
Simple fixes:
Always tie long hair up before bed.
Remove any long necklaces or dangling jewelry before sleep.
Check buttons and ensure they're intact.
4. Bedsharing Safety - Charger Cables
We’ve all been there, scrolling through our phones in bed, only to drift off mid-scroll. But charger cables can pose a strangulation hazard if left in the sleeping space.
Safer alternatives:
Keep chargers out of the bed while in use.
Consider charging your phone during the daytime if you often fall asleep while holding it.
The points listed in this blog are the risks I've found aren't spoken of enough. Below, I'll link resources you can get the rest of the guidelines for safer bedsharing.
Book: Safe Infant Sleep: Expert Answers to Your Cosleeping Questions by James Mckenna
Dr. Jessica Guy, Founder Infant Sleep Scientist
Hey there! I hope you enjoyed the blog.
I strive to provide as much free and high-quality evidence-based content as possible! I also offer products and services for more in depth education or support to optimise your and your baby’s sleep and well-being in a responsive and attuned way.
Signature Sleep Program: Baby Sleep Without the BS (0-18) HERE
Struggle Free Toddler Sleep Mini Course HERE
Gentle Night Weaning Guide HERE
Book 1:1 support HERE
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