Key takeaways: The AAP recommends that babies sleep in the parents’ room, in their own crib or bassinet, ideally for at least the first 6 months, because room-sharing is linked to a lower risk of SIDS. After that, the timing is a family decision. When you move your baby, keep the same safe sleep rules and a consistent routine.
Many parents wonder when to move their baby into their own room. Here’s what the guidance says.
What the AAP Recommends
In its 2022 safe sleep guidance, the AAP recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing, ideally for at least the first 6 months. The risk of SIDS is highest in the first 6 months.
Why Room-Sharing Helps
- Parents can respond quickly.
- Breastfeeding is easier.
- It may lower SIDS risk.
What Research Says About Moving Later
A 2017 study by Paul and colleagues found that babies who slept in their own rooms at 4 and 9 months had somewhat longer stretches of sleep than room-sharing babies, but they were also more likely to have unsafe items in the crib or be moved to the parents’ bed overnight. Families make different choices based on their needs.
Signs You Might Be Ready
- Your baby is over 6 months.
- Everyone is sleeping poorly due to noises.
- Your baby has outgrown the bassinet and a crib won’t fit in your room.
How to Make the Move
- Set up a safe crib: firm mattress, fitted sheet, nothing else.
- Practice naps in the new room first.
- Keep your bedtime routine the same.
- Use a baby monitor if it gives you peace of mind.
- Keep the room comfortable, dark, and quiet.
Safety Reminders
- Back to sleep.
- No bumpers, pillows, blankets, or toys.
- Anchor furniture to the wall.
- Keep cords from blinds and monitors out of reach.
The Bottom Line
Room-share, ideally for at least the first 6 months. When you move your baby, keep sleep safe and routines consistent.
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Sources
- Moon RY, Carlin RF, Hand I; Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome; Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Sleep-related infant deaths: updated 2022 recommendations for reducing infant deaths in the sleep environment. Pediatrics. 2022;150(1):e2022057990.
- Paul IM, Hohman EE, Loken E, et al. Mother-infant room-sharing and sleep outcomes in the INSIGHT study. Pediatrics. 2017;140(1):e20170122.
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Safe to Sleep campaign. https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
