Room-Share, Don’t Bed-Share for Infant Safety
Key takeaway
Room-sharing (same room, separate crib/bassinet) is recommended and can support safer infant sleep; bed-sharing (same sleep surface) is not recommended by the AAP because it increases SIDS and suffocation risk.
- Room-sharing means the infant sleeps nearby on a separate crib or bassinet; bed-sharing means sharing the adult mattress or sofa.
- Prefer room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first six months, ideally through the first year.
| Arrangement | Scientific Observation | Guidance | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Room-sharing (separate surface) | Associated with lower SIDS risk vs solitary room | Recommended (AAP 2022) | ||
| Bed-sharing (same surface) | Raises SIDS/suffocation/entrapment risk | Not recommended | ||
| Soft bedding / sofa sharing | Especially high risk | Avoid for infant sleep | ||
| Source | AAP Pediatrics 2022 | doi:10.1542/peds.2022-057990 |