Safe Cosleeping: 💛 From Your Homesteading Doula
I remember when my first was six months old. I was so tired I could hardly function. Sleep deprivation was real, and I felt like I couldn’t keep up with the demands of motherhood. So, I asked a mom of four kiddos if she had any tips on how to get my baby to sleep better. She laughed and replied, “Get a king-size bed and let your baby sleep with you.”
What? How? I thought. Of course, there were no Safe 7 tips for cosleeping back then, but when I look back, her advice was rooted in common sense, which, when you break it down, really teaches the same thing.
Now, as a mama myself, I want to share how you can cosleep safely, confidently, and without guilt. You don’t have to suffer from sleepless nights or feel torn about the decision. Cosleeping, done safely, can be a beautiful, peaceful practice that strengthens your bond and helps you both get the sleep you deserve.
The beauty of safe cosleeping is that it improves sleep for both you and your baby. When your baby sleeps close to you, they feel more secure and comforted, which means fewer wake-ups. You’ll also find that breastfeeding at night is easier, and you won’t need to go in and out of another room. This means better, more restful sleep for everyone—something we all need and deserve!
To help you feel confident, here’s a breakdown of the "Safe 7" guidelines for cosleeping:
1. No Smoking: Make sure your sleep environment is smoke-free. Smoking increases the risk of SIDS and should be avoided at all costs. Do NOT sleep with your baby if you have been drinking or taking any medication that may affect your sleep. Even some cold medicines may make a person sleep deeper.
2 Firm Mattress: Choose a firm mattress for your baby. Soft surfaces increase the risk of suffocation, so avoid pillows, blankets, or soft mattresses.
3. No Loose Bedding: Keep your sleep area free of loose blankets, pillows, and plush toys. These can create a suffocation hazard.
4. Healthy Baby: Make sure your baby is healthy enough for cosleeping. If your baby has health concerns or was born prematurely, talk to your healthcare provider before bed-sharing.
5. Baby Sleeping on Their Back: Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This significantly reduces the risk of SIDS.
6. No Co-Sleeping on Couches or Armchairs: Avoid co-sleeping on soft furniture. Babies can easily become trapped or suffocated in these environments.
7. Baby in Close Reach: Keep your baby within arm’s reach but avoid any gaps or spaces where they could get trapped.
The C-Curl: A Loving and Safe Sleeping Position
For safe cosleeping, try the C-curl position. Lie on your side with your baby curled in the space between your arm and body. This position allows you to stay connected to your baby while preventing any rolling over or accidental covering. It’s natural, safe, and also makes nighttime breastfeeding easier.
You’re Not Alone in This Journey
I really hope this helps you feel safe and confident about sleeping with your baby. Your baby wants you close—they see you as their safe spot, their comfort, and their source of peace. I suggest you go ahead and get a king-size bed, and let your baby sleep with you. It can be done safely, and it can make a world of difference for both of you.
So, yes, go ahead, get that king-size bed, and let your baby sleep close to you. It can be done safely, and I promise, it’s worth it.
If you’re feeling ready to make cosleeping work for your family, I’d love to help you with any questions or concerns you might have. Please feel free to reach out for a Coaching Call, if you want to dive deeper into safe cosleeping practices or need any guidance along the way. Here’s to better nights and more peaceful sleep for you and your baby!
