Colin Snow
There are several factors to consider when deciding whether newborn twins should sleep in the same cot. While some experts say that sharing a cot can soothe newborn twins, others argue that it is dangerous. Twins who sleep in the same cot have no higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) as long as safe sleeping advice is followed. This includes putting babies to sleep on their backs with their feet touching the bottom of the cot and keeping them from getting too hot. It is also important to establish a schedule and stick to a bedtime routine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Twins sleeping in the same cot | Can help them adjust to the move from hospital to home |
| Can help them regulate their body temperatures and sleep cycles | |
| Can make it easier for parents to look after them | |
| Can soothe them | |
| Can increase the risk of SIDS | |
| Can be continued until they move into their childhood beds | |
| Twins sleeping in separate cots | Can help them express their different personalities |
| Can help parents treat them as individuals | |
| Can be done when they begin to roll over | |
| Can be done when one twin consistently wakes the other | |
| Can be done when they are older and disturbing one another | |
| Twins sleeping in the same room as parents | Can reduce the risk of SIDS |
| Can be done for at least the first six months | |
| Twins sleeping in separate rooms | Can be done when they are older and disturbing one another |
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What You'll Learn
Safe sleeping practices
Crib-sharing
Twins can share a crib in their first few weeks, and this practice is known as co-bedding. Crib-sharing can soothe newborn twins as they are used to being in close proximity to each other from their time in utero. It can also help them regulate their body temperatures and sleep cycles. However, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether co-bedding is safe, and some experts argue that it is dangerous. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that twins sleep safely in their own sleeping space in the same room as their parents for at least the first few months to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Sleeping position
When co-bedding, twins should be placed on their backs with the tops of their heads facing one another and their feet at opposite ends of the cot, or side by side with their feet at the foot of the cot. They should not be close enough to touch each other. This ensures that each twin does not obstruct the other's breathing.
Bedding
Use a sheet and a cellular blanket, or a baby sleeping bag of the correct tog for the season. Tuck the covers in securely, well below the babies' shoulders. Alternatively, swaddle each baby individually and then use another blanket to swaddle them together. Do not use bumper pads or soft bedding, as this increases the risk of SIDS.
Cot dividers
Cot dividers are not recommended. However, if you feel that your twins need a divider, use a fixed cot divider designed for this purpose.
Room-sharing
It is recommended that babies sleep in the same room as their parents for the first six months to reduce the risk of cot death. If you have limited space, you can use smaller cribs, Moses baskets, or travel cots. Ensure that you have a firm, flat mattress, free of toys and soft bedding.
Establishing a schedule
Newborns have irregular sleep patterns, but you should try to synchronise your twins' schedules so they eat, sleep, bathe, and get changed at the same time. This will help you to get more rest and gradually create a more structured day.
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Benefits of co-bedding
While there is limited research on the benefits of co-bedding, it is believed to have a positive impact on the growth and development of newborn twins. Co-bedding is the practice of caring for two or more infants in the same cot or incubator, allowing for skin-to-skin contact and proximity between the twins.
Firstly, co-bedding simulates the intrauterine environment, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort. In the womb, twins interact and support each other through co-regulatory activities such as touching, holding, and hugging. By co-bedding, twins can continue these behaviours, potentially reducing their stress and promoting growth and development.
Secondly, co-bedding facilitates skin-to-skin contact, which has been shown to decrease pain responses in newborns. This benefit is particularly relevant for twins who may undergo painful medical procedures during their early days. The presence and touch of their twin may provide comfort and reduce their pain response.
Additionally, co-bedding promotes enhanced developmental care by mimicking the womb environment. Twins can see, touch, and smell each other, easing their transition to extrauterine life. This type of caregiving aims to reduce the stress of adapting to the world outside the womb, which may be especially challenging for preterm infants.
Furthermore, co-bedding can foster a sense of mutual support and strengthen the twin relationship. Twins have a unique bond, sharing the same uterine space since conception. Co-bedding allows them to maintain their proximity, potentially enhancing their connection and providing emotional comfort to each other.
While there are potential benefits to co-bedding, it is important to consider any possible risks, such as caregiver error, infection, and the presence of other risk factors like exposure to smoking. The decision to co-bed newborn twins should be made after careful consideration of the benefits and risks, and in consultation with healthcare professionals.
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Syncing sleep schedules
Establishing a sleep schedule for newborn twins can be challenging, but it is possible to get them on the same page. Here are some tips to help you sync your twins' sleep schedules:
Start Early
The sooner you start working on syncing their schedules, the better. It will set your twins up for success and increase the chances of them napping in sync when they are older.
Feeding Time
The key to syncing sleep schedules is to first get your twins on a feeding schedule. Since babies who eat at the same time will likely get sleepy at the same time, feeding them simultaneously increases the chances of them falling asleep together. After a few nights, your twins should start to get hungry and doze off in sync.
Bedtime Routine
Create a consistent bedtime routine by dimming the lights, using soothing voices, singing lullabies, and giving them a cozy before-bed feeding. Repeat the same routine every night so your babies know bedtime is approaching.
Safe Sleep Positions
Always follow safe sleeping advice. The babies should be placed on their backs, with their feet touching the bottom of the cot. Make sure they don't get too hot, especially if they are sharing a cot. Tuck in their covers securely, well below their shoulders.
White Noise
Playing white noise in the background can help your twins fall asleep and prevent one baby from waking the other during their nap. It helps to block out any sudden noises that might startle them awake.
Be Flexible
Remember that syncing sleep schedules for twins can be a challenging task. It may take time and practice to establish a routine, and there will be days when things don't go according to plan. Be patient, flexible, and don't be too hard on yourself if you encounter setbacks.
Ask for Help
Don't hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, friends, or a professional sleep consultant. Having an extra pair of hands can make a big difference, especially in the early days.
By following these tips and staying consistent, you can increase the chances of getting your newborn twins on the same sleep schedule, which will benefit both you and your babies.
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When to separate twins
The decision to separate twins depends on various factors, including the twins' sleeping habits, space availability, and personal preferences. Here are some considerations for when to separate twins:
Sleeping Habits and Routines
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and a safe sleep environment is crucial for twins. If one twin's sleep is frequently disturbed by the other, it may be beneficial to separate them. This decision can be made at any time, depending on when the issue arises. Some twins may continue to sleep together without issues, while others may need separation earlier on.
Age and Development
The age at which twins should be separated is a personal decision for parents or caregivers. Some sources recommend keeping twins in the same room for the first six to twelve months to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). However, as twins grow and become more active, they may need their own space to move freely and get comfortable while sleeping. This could be around four to five months, as their sleep patterns change and they may start disturbing each other more frequently.
Space Availability
If you have the space available and twins are disturbing each other's sleep, you might consider giving them separate rooms. This decision is often made when twins are over twelve months old, but it can be done earlier if needed.
Personal Preferences
Some parents choose to separate their twins during the early months to establish individual sleeping habits and avoid one twin's sleep relying on the other. Others prefer to keep their twins together for comfort and companionship. Ultimately, the decision to separate twins is a personal one, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Safety Considerations
It is important to prioritize safe sleeping practices for twins. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against crib-sharing, as it increases the risk of SIDS, especially for twins born prematurely or with low birth weights. Twins should be placed on their backs, with their feet touching the bottom of the cot or crib, and blankets should be securely tucked in. Keep the sleep environment free from extra bedding, stuffed animals, or loose clothing to maintain a safe and comfortable space.
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Crib size and bedding
When it comes to crib size and bedding for newborn twins, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to establish a consistent sleep schedule for your twins, which may be tricky at first due to their irregular sleep patterns. However, a consistent schedule will help create a structured day and provide peace of mind. It is recommended to follow safe sleeping practices and have your twins sleep in the same room as you for at least the first six months, as this reduces the risk of cot death.
When considering crib options, you may choose to purchase a specialty crib designed for twins, but these can be expensive and hard to find. Alternatively, you can opt for two separate cribs or bassinets placed close together, ensuring that each twin has their own safe sleeping space. If space is limited, using two bassinets or a play yard with a double bassinet or mesh divider can be a space-saving solution. It is recommended to buy new cribs to ensure they meet the latest safety standards and to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for up-to-date information.
In terms of bedding, it is important to securely tuck in blankets or sheets well below the twins' shoulders. Baby sleeping bags of the appropriate tog for the season can also be used. While crib dividers are generally not needed and advised against by baby sleep charity The Lullaby Trust, if you feel a divider is necessary, use a fixed cot divider designed for this purpose. As your twins grow and their space requirements change, you may need to transition them to separate cribs or beds to accommodate their increasing size and differing sleep patterns.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no clear answer to this question. While some experts say that co-bedding soothes newborn twins, others argue that it is dangerous. The UK National Health Service says that twins can share a crib in their first few weeks. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends putting twins to sleep safely in their own sleeping space in the same room as you, on their backs for at least the first few months to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Putting newborn twins in the same cot may help them adjust to life outside the hospital. Sharing a sleeping space can help them regulate their body temperatures and sleep cycles. It can also make it easier for you to look after them.
If one twin has a contagious illness, the other twin has the same risk of getting it as they would if someone else in the house had that infection. Twins who sleep in the same cot may also wake each other up, especially once they start to roll over.
