Optimizing Bedsharing: The Safe 7
Many sleep coaches don’t talk about how to optimize bedsharing safely. I want YOU to know that my social media page and blog are safe spaces for you—no shame, just support for whatever sleep situation you choose. I know you’re here to find the best and safest sleep solution for your child.
You’re a wonderful mom for researching safe sleep options!
And PS: Even as a sleep coach, I’ve brought my children to bed. We all get exhausted, and I want to share ways to make sharing safer and more comfortable for you and your little one.
What is the Safe 7?
The Safe Sleep Seven guidelines are designed to make bed-sharing safer for parents and their babies. It’s constructive for new parents or parents of young, breastfeeding infants who find it challenging to repeatedly move their baby in and out of a separate sleeping space.
While the Safe Sleep Seven is often recommended for nursing moms, it can also be used by parents who are bottle-feeding.
Key Points & Important Notes
Although the scientific and medical community generally doesn’t recommend bedsharing, many aspects of the Safe Sleep Seven are supported by peer-reviewed research. Here’s a list of criteria for safe bedsharing:
No smoking, and a sober mom
Baby at your breast (cuddle curl position)
Healthy baby sleeping on their back
Keep baby lightly dressed
Use a firm mattress (not too soft)
Watch for cords and gaps (keep them out of reach)
Keep covers off the baby’s head (no blankets or pillows)
Apply these guidelines for both night and nap times
What is the Cuddle Curl Position?
As a co-sleeping parent, you might end up with a sore body, especially if you’re using the cuddle curl position, which is essential for safe bed-sharing. Here are five arm positions to make the cuddle curl more comfortable:
Reach your arm up and hug your pillow
Fold your arm against your chest
Rest your forearm on your waist
Stretch your arm across your baby’s body
Place your hand between your knees
The cuddle curl is highly protective—it helps prevent your baby from moving up, down, or away from you and makes nighttime breastfeeding easier. But without a comfortable position for your arm, bedsharing can become challenging.
Things to Consider
Use an adult sleeping bag to stay warm while keeping your baby safe.
Put your baby in a sleep sack.
Use a small pillow for your head and neck.
Avoid using a pillow or blanket for your baby.
Additional Notes
Parents, especially moms, choose bedsharing for various reasons: some believe in it, some practice it culturally, and some do it out of necessity. No matter the reason, my goal is to help you and your baby stay as safe and comfortable as possible.
I’m not advising anyone to bedshare; I’m simply providing options for those who do. Exhaustion can lead to unsafe sleeping situations, and safe bedsharing in the cuddle curl position is a much better alternative than falling asleep somewhere risky, like a rocker. Education is vital, and safe bedsharing can be a practical option.
If you ever feel ready to transition from bedsharing to independent sleep skills without compromising your bond with your child, feel free to set up a free discovery call using the link belo. At Independent Sleepers, we use gentle, non-cry-it-out approaches to help.
https://www.independentsleepers.com/packages-pricing
Until then, safe bedsharing ❤️
Selina Truax
Creator and Head Sleep Coach
