It feels tempting: your baby drifts off in your lap, and with your sleep deprivation, you want to join them. But think twice before dozing off together on the couch.
Research indicates that 1 in 8 SIDS cases occur after a couch nap.
Why is couch co-sleeping dangerous?
Sofas often slope slightly toward the backrest, making it easy for babies to roll face-down and get trapped—a leading SIDS risk factor, per pediatric experts.
The myth of safety in proximity
Many parents feel secure sleeping nearby, but this is misleading. SIDS can strike even with parents present, whether in bed or on the couch, as confirmed by sleep safety studies.
Best practices for safe infant sleep
Place your baby alone in their own crib, on their back, on a firm, flat mattress. Skip pillows, blankets, and cuddly toys to minimize risks.
