Why should baby sleep in their own bed?

Categories: Advice

While it's often recommended to keep the baby with you after birth, it's also important that your child can sleep in their own bed and in their own room. The problem is that it's not always easy to know how to reassure a baby when you decide to put them in their own bed. Discover why it's important for a baby to sleep in their own bed and how to make the transition smooth.

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Why keep baby with you after birth?

When returning from the maternity ward, a few days after birth, it's often recommended to sleep in the same room as the baby. This helps reassure them in this new environment and not cut the bond with the mother too radically after the 9-month fusion that occurred during pregnancy. Moreover, breastfeeding is also greatly facilitated when baby is next to their mother during the night.

According to the WHO, it's recommended that baby occupies the parental bedroom until they are 6 months old. As the risk of suffocation is too high when letting baby sleep in the parents' bed, you can use a special co-sleeping crib which is designed for this purpose. You can also opt for a bassinet which is also designed to accommodate a child under 6 months, to be placed near your bed. When baby feels ready and you want to reclaim your space and parental privacy, you can then consider a new transition for your child to sleep in their own room (discover here an article on when to have baby sleep in their own room).

Why should baby sleep in their own bed?

It's entirely possible for your child to share your room after 6 months. Each baby has their own rhythm. Nevertheless, it's important to find a balance that works for the whole family. Baby needs to learn to feel reassured even when their parents are not in the same room and thus to find sleep peacefully. Parents can reclaim their room and thus regain intimacy in their relationship.

It is therefore important, at some point, for the baby to be able to sleep in their own room. While some children transition easily, for others it can be more complicated. Therefore, you can postpone this project if you feel your child isn't ready. You can also try different methods that will allow you to support this change gently.

    Preparing baby's bed

    The first step is, of course, to prepare the baby's bed so that they feel comfortable and safe in it. Most often, the baby's room is already ready before their arrival, but you'll still have 6 months after birth to fine-tune the details. 

    Choosing the bed

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    Start by choosing your child's bed. At Chambrekids, we recommend opting for a convertible crib. Indeed, the convertible crib is a baby bed with bars that can be transformed into a child's bed. This way, you keep your furniture for as long as possible to save money and opt for a more eco-friendly choice. The wooden convertible crib is particularly interesting, as you can choose one made from PEFC certified wood, low formaldehyde panels, and water-based paint.

    You can also choose a twin baby bed which is most often a convertible crib designed to accommodate two children. If you want to opt for an original baby bed, why not choose a plexiglass baby bed or a vintage convertible crib?

    The dimensions of a baby bed are generally 60x120 cm or 70x140 cm (this is the standard dimension for a convertible crib, for example).

    Another solution is to opt for a combination baby bed. This is a convertible crib that is combined with other storage furniture to save space in the room.

    Choosing the mattress

    Whether you choose a convertible crib or any other type of baby bed, you'll also need to select the right baby mattress. You'll need to consider the dimensions of the crib. Then, you can focus on the materials used. It's generally recommended to opt for natural materials and look for Oeko-Tex certification.

    How to get baby to sleep in their own bed?

    There are several tricks to help your baby find sleep and sleep in their bed. You can start by having them play in their room to familiarize them with this new space. You can also begin simply with naps in the crib so they can also discover this environment.

    Don't forget about comforting rituals such as a stuffed toy, a piece of clothing with your scent, a song, a night light, etc. Also, try to put your child to bed at the same time every night to establish a consistent bedtime routine. Each child has their own needs, and you'll need to discover what your baby's are to help them settle in their bed.

    If bedtime is too difficult and you can't soothe your child, it might be too early for them. If you have doubts, you can discuss the matter with your pediatrician, your midwife, or seek the services of a sleep consultant. By being patient and attentive, you'll find ways to help your baby sleep peacefully in their bed.