As you prepare for your baby, you may start wondering where your baby will sleep. Should you get a baby nest, a bedside sleeper or a crib? Do you need all of them?
Different families choose different sleep arrangements, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s a guide to the most common options and current safe sleep recommendations.
Baby nest or “lounger”
A baby nest (sometimes called a baby lounger or sleep pod) is a padded infant insert with soft raised sides designed to create a cozy space for a baby to rest nearby.
Some parents use them during supervised awake time or while feeding. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against using baby nests, loungers or padded sleep products for routine infant sleep because they may increase the risk of suffocation or unsafe positioning.
If you choose to keep your baby close during sleep or feeding, safer sleep recommendations include:
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface.
- Keep pillows, blankets, bumpers and loose bedding away from the baby.
- Avoid overheating.
- Make sure your baby cannot become trapped or fall.
- Avoid smoking or nicotine exposure.
- Never bed-share if you have used alcohol, sedating medications or drugs, or if you are extremely tired.
- Breastfeeding and pacifier use are associated with a lower risk of SIDS.
Bedside sleeper
A bedside sleeper (also called a bedside bassinet) attaches safely next to an adult bed while still giving the baby their own separate sleep space.
Many parents appreciate this option during the newborn period, especially for nighttime feeding and recovery after birth.
Some models can also be used as standalone bassinets.
Crib
A crib is considered the safest long-term sleep option for infants and young children. Compared with smaller newborn sleep products, cribs are:
- stable and durable
- designed for safe infant sleep
- adjustable as your baby grows
Many cribs have adjustable mattress heights and can later convert into toddler beds.
So what should you choose?
It’s difficult to know ahead of time exactly what your baby or family will prefer.
Some babies settle best close to a parent, while others sleep comfortably in their own crib from the beginning. Your feeding plans, recovery, home setup and comfort all play a role.
The most important thing is that your baby has:
- a safe sleep environment
- a firm, flat sleep surface
- a smoke-free environment
- close and responsive care
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