No — co-sleeping with your baby on a sofa or couch is extremely dangerous and is not recommended under any circumstances.
Co-sleeping with your baby on a couch can increase the risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infants.
Why Is It Unsafe?
Co-sleeping with a baby on a couch, sofa, or armchair significantly increases the risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI), including fatal sleeping accidents.
These surfaces are not designed for infant sleep. Sofas and armchairs have soft cushions, gaps, and sloped edges that can trap a baby’s face or body. If a baby rolls or slips into one of these spaces, they may become wedged or smothered — and sadly the adult may not wake up or notice in time.
In fact, research shows that babies are at much higher risk of accidental suffocation when they co-sleep on a couch or armchair with another person, compared to other sleep environments.
Chest-Sleeping While Lying Down or Semi-reclined: Also a Risk!
It’s common for babies to settle on your chest during cuddles — but falling asleep while lying down with your baby on your chest is unsafe. This position places baby face down, which is the same as sleeping them on their tummy.
Sleeping face-down restricts baby’s breathing and increases the risk of suffocation or choking. A sleeping adult may not be able to respond if the baby moves into a dangerous position.
Safe Sleep Alternatives
If you feel yourself getting drowsy while holding your baby on the couch, the safest thing to do is to place your baby in their own safe sleeping space before you fall asleep.
Red Nose recommends always following the six safe sleep guidelines:
- Always place baby on their back to sleep
- Keep baby’s face and head uncovered
- Keep baby smoke and vape free before and after birth
- Safe sleeping environment night and day; in a safe cot, bassinet or portable cot that meets Australian standards
- Sleep baby in their own safe sleep space in the same room as their parent or caregiver for at least the first 6 months
- Breastfeed baby if possible
Key Messages for Parents and Carers
Never sleep with your baby on a sofa, armchair, or recliner — no matter how tired you are. The risks are simply too high.
Instead, plan ahead for sleep times:
- Set up a safe sleep space close by, such as a cot or bassinet in the living area
- Ask for support from a partner, friend, or family member if you’re feeling exhausted
- If baby falls asleep in your arms, gently transfer them to their own cot or bassinet
Red Nose offers free support and resources to help you create a safer sleep environment for your baby. Call our Safe Sleep Advice Line on 1300 998 698.
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