The Do's and Don'ts of Room Sharing: A Guide for Parents

As a Sleep Sense Consultant, I know that room sharing with your baby can feel both comforting and, at times, exhausting. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room sharing for at least the first 6 months—ideally up to one year—for safety reasons. But to make it work for your whole family, it’s important to strike the right balance between closeness and quality sleep.

Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do when room sharing.

✅ The Do's of Room Sharing

✔️ Use White Noise

If every little sound seems to wake your baby—or you—a white noise machine can help. It masks background noises (like your partner snoring or floorboard creaks) and mimics the womb's soothing environment.

✔️ Create a Gentle Barrier

Once your baby is around 6 months, they may become more aware of your presence, which can disrupt their sleep. A simple curtain, screen, or divider between your bed and theirs can reduce visual stimulation and promote longer stretches of sleep.

✔️ Stick to a Routine

Consistency is key. A predictable bedtime routine—bath, book, lullaby—signals to your baby that sleep is coming, even in a shared space. Over time, this helps them learn to fall asleep more independently.

✔️ Consider an Earlier Transition

While the AAP recommends room sharing up to 12 months, many babies (and parents!) sleep better when they move to their own room around 6 months. If your baby is waking frequently just from sensing you nearby, it might be time to consider the switch.

🚫 The Don'ts of Room Sharing

✖️ Don’t Co-Sleep (Same Surface)

Room sharing does not mean bed sharing. Co-sleeping (sharing the same bed) increases the risk of SIDS. Your baby should always sleep in their own crib or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress and no loose bedding.

✖️ Don’t Ignore Sleep Disruptions

If your baby is waking more often due to your presence—maybe they hear you, smell you, or see you—it’s okay to reevaluate the setup. More frequent night wakings can lead to overtiredness and impact everyone’s well-being.

✖️ Don’t Sacrifice Your Own Sleep

Your sleep matters, too. If you're waking constantly from baby noises or feeling burnt out, it might be time to explore other arrangements that help you recharge. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

✖️ Don’t Rely on Room Sharing Alone for Safety

Room sharing helps reduce SIDS risk, but it's just one piece of safe sleep. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, use a firm sleep surface, and keep soft objects out of the crib.

💤 Finding the Right Balance

Room sharing can be a beautiful way to bond and feel close in those early months—but it should work for you, not against you. With tools like white noise and visual barriers, many families find a rhythm that supports sleep for both baby and parents.

And when it feels right to move your baby into their own room, know that it can be a positive and empowering transition—for everyone. You’ve got this.

As your Sleep Sense Consultant, I’m here to help you navigate every step, from room sharing to independent sleep and beyond.