Co-Sleeping with a Breastfed Baby: What to Know for Safe, Restful Nights

May 21, 2025

Co-sleeping with your breastfed baby can feel natural, comforting, and deeply bonding — especially during those frequent nighttime feeds. But like many parenting decisions, it comes with questions, concerns, and the need for safety first.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of co-sleeping with a breastfed baby, what the experts say, and how to make your sleeping setup as safe and supportive as possible for both you and your little one. 🛏️👶💕

🤱 Why Many Breastfeeding Moms Choose to Co-Sleep

Breastfeeding and co-sleeping often go hand in hand. Here's why many new moms love this setup:

Easier nighttime feeding: No getting out of bed multiple times — your baby is right beside you.
More sleep for both: Studies show that co-sleeping moms and babies tend to wake less and fall asleep faster after feeds.
Strong bonding: Skin-to-skin contact and proximity strengthen the emotional connection.
Supports breastfeeding success: Frequent access to the breast encourages milk production and reduces the chance of weaning too early.

But, while there are many benefits, safe sleep practices must come first.

⚠️ Is Co-Sleeping Safe?

Co-sleeping can be done safely, but it requires intention and awareness. According to the La Leche League and various pediatric sleep experts, co-sleeping with a breastfed baby can reduce certain risks if the right conditions are met.

However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing as the safest sleep environment — especially in the first 6 months — to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

That said, many families still choose to co-sleep, so if you do, here’s how to do it safely.

✅ Safe Co-Sleeping Checklist for Breastfeeding Parents

To make co-sleeping safer, follow these guidelines (often called the "Safe Sleep Seven"):

Baby is exclusively breastfed (not formula-fed at night)
Both parents are non-smokers — even outside the home
No alcohol, sedatives, or drugs that impair awareness
Baby is full-term and healthy (no preemies or low birthweight)
Baby is placed on their back to sleep
Baby sleeps beside mom only, not between both parents
The bed is clear of pillows, heavy blankets, pets, or other children

Also: Use a firm mattress, no soft surfaces like sofas or recliners, and keep the bed away from walls or gaps where baby could get trapped.

💤 Best Positions for Night Feeds and Safe Sleep

The “C-shape” position is ideal for co-sleeping while breastfeeding. Here's how it works:

Mom lies on her side, curled around the baby like a protective "C"
Baby lies on their back or side facing the breast
Mom's lower arm is under her head and knees are bent to prevent rolling

This position allows for easy nursing and instinctive protection. Breastfeeding moms tend to be more alert to baby’s movements and sleep in lighter stages, enhancing safety.

❌ When NOT to Co-Sleep

Avoid co-sleeping if:

You or your partner smoke
You've consumed alcohol or medication that makes you drowsy
Baby was born premature or has health complications
You're sleeping on a couch, sofa, or waterbed
You're extremely exhausted and fear falling into a deep sleep

Your baby’s safety is the top priority. You can still enjoy closeness by room-sharing with a safe crib or bassinet nearby.

🌙 Final Thoughts: Follow Your Instincts, But Prioritize Safety

Co-sleeping with a breastfed baby can make nights more manageable, create a deeper bond, and support breastfeeding — as long as it’s done safely.

Every family is different, so choose the sleeping setup that works best for you, your baby, and your peace of mind. Whether that’s co-sleeping, room-sharing, or crib sleeping — you’ve got this, mama! ❤️

👶 Must-Have for Breastfeeding Moms: Try Our Teething & Feeding Set!

Make nighttime feeds and teething easier with our gentle Baby Teether & Fruit Feeder — it soothes sore gums and keeps baby satisfied day or night:
👉 Shop now at Omomly

Back to blog