Many new parents wonder if having mom sleep in a separate room from baby will help their little one sleep better at night. There are arguments on both sides of this issue, with some experts and parents swearing that room sharing is best while others insist babies sleep more soundly on their own. In this article, we’ll explore the evidence behind whether babies truly sleep better without mom in the room.
Do babies sleep better in their own room?
Some parents find their baby sleeps more soundly when they have their own nursery or bedroom space. Here are some of the potential benefits of having baby sleep separately from parents:
- More consistent sleep cycles. Babies may wake more easily when they hear and smell mom nearby. Separate rooms allow babies to get into a deeper sleep rhythm without disruptions.
- Freedom to make noise. Babies often make little sounds, cries or grunts as they transition between sleep cycles. This can wake parents up, who then usually check on baby. With separate rooms, babies can make noise freely without waking anyone.
- Comfort. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that many babies sleep better in a quiet, dark space designed just for them. Their own crib and room can be comforting.
- Parental sleep. When baby room shares, parents are woken by every stir, grunt and cry. Having separate rooms means better sleep for exhausted moms and dads.
Studies have found that when moms room shared for the first few months, then moved baby to their own room, infants slept for longer stretches of uninterrupted sleep. Researchers think this is because babies learn to self-soothe when they have their own designated sleeping space.
Potential concerns with separate baby rooms
While there are benefits to giving baby their own room, some parents may have concerns, such as:
- Missing cues. Room sharing makes it easier for parents to hear and respond to babies in the night. Separate rooms may mean missed feeding cues or wet diapers.
- Checking on baby. Parents may get anxious being unable to see and hear baby sleeping. This can lead to frequent checks, disrupting everyone’s rest.
- Bonding. Being close to baby while sleeping can help reinforce bonds. Separate rooms may mean less time snuggling and interacting at night.
- Safety. Guidelines recommend room sharing for six months to reduce SIDS risk. Being farther away may cause stress.
These are valid concerns. Parents know their babies best. For those worried about proximity, monitors and periodic checks can provide reassurance.
What does research say about co-sleeping vs. separate rooms?
Research on this topic shows:
- Room sharing for 6-12 months is associated with less risk of SIDS.
- Separate rooms linked to more night wakings, less breastfeeding in first 6 months.
- Babies in own room by 4-6 months slept longer stretches as they learned to self-soothe.
- Frequent night wakings decreased after moving to own room between 4-9 months old.
- Moms got better sleep with baby in separate room but visited baby more at night.
So while room sharing aligns with safety guidelines, studies show babies can begin sleeping for longer intervals in their own space between 4-6 months as they develop self-soothing skills.
Here is a table summarizing some key research on room sharing versus separate room sleep for babies:
| Study | Room Sharing Findings | Separate Room Findings |
|---|---|---|
| National Infant Sleep Study, 2010 | – Reduced SIDS risk | – N/A (only looked at room sharing) |
| Mindell et al., 2017 | – More night wakings – More breastfeeding |
– Longer sleep stretches – Less signaling at night |
| Teti et al., 2016 | – N/A | – Moms got more sleep but checked on babies more |
Based on the evidence, room sharing is recommended for at least 6 months. But beyond that, transitioning to a separate nursery is linked to longer sleep periods.
Tips for successfully transitioning baby to their own room
If you feel your baby is ready for their own space, here are some tips for a smooth transition:
Choose the timing wisely
Experts suggest waiting until after 4-6 months when babies naturally begin sleeping for longer intervals and can self-soothe. Avoid big life changes like weaning, starting daycare, or parents returning to work.
Set up a comfy sleep environment
Use a quality crib mattress and comfortable temperature. Have a sound machine and dark curtains. Make it a peaceful, calming space.
Develop a pre-bed routine
Do the same sequence before bed like bath, pajamas, stories. This cues your baby that bedtime is coming.
Be consistent
Put baby to bed awake but drowsy at the same times each night. Stick to consistent nap schedules and bedtimes.
Offer reassurance
Comfort baby with a lovey or blanket from parents’ room. Use a monitor and check on them periodically.
Go slow
Start with naps in the nursery, not overnight. Gradually increase time alone. It may take weeks for adjustment.
Allow some fussing
Babies often protest changes to sleep routines. Allow some fussing before interventions so they can practice self-soothing.
With preparation, patience and consistency, your baby may sleep soundly in their own space. Trust your instincts as a parent.
Making a decision that feels right for your family
Room sharing versus separate rooms is a very personal decision based on your baby’s needs and your family’s lifestyle. Here are some questions to reflect on:
- How well does baby sleep when sharing a room? Do they wake frequently or sleep soundly?
- How disruptive is baby’s nighttime activity to parents? Are you functioning well on your current sleep?
- Do you prioritize closeness with baby or uninterrupted sleep?
- How reassuring do you find having baby close by? Does room sharing give you peace of mind?
- How adaptable is your baby to change? Do big transitions tend to go smoothly or with difficulty?
- What feels right for you as parents? Do you have a strong preference either way?
There are great reasons for both room sharing and separate sleep. Think about your family’s needs and baby’s development. Talk with your pediatrician if you need guidance.
Trust yourself to make the best decision for your baby and family. If it doesn’t work, you can always switch approaches. Babies will give cues about their ideal sleep environment.
Conclusion
While room sharing aligns with safety recommendations for the first 6-12 months, research shows moving an older baby into their own room can lead to longer sleep stretches as they learn to self-soothe. Separate rooms may enable babies to make noise freely and sleep deeply without disrupting parents.
But room sharing also has bonding benefits and helps parents monitor infants closely. There are good arguments on both sides. Consider your baby’s sleep patterns, temperament and your family’s priorities when deciding what works best.
Trust your instincts as parents, stick to consistent sleep routines, and be flexible. Pay attention to how your baby thrives. With time and patience, you will find a sleep arrangement that meets your whole family’s needs so everyone can get some much-needed rest.