Co-Bedding

Many parents find that sleeping their babies in the same cot (co-bedding) works well, at least for the first few weeks or months. Research has shown that sleeping similar-sized newborn twins in the same cot does not mean they wake more often; in fact, their sleeping patterns become more similar. Multiples that are used to co-bedding do not disturb one another.

Many parents of multiples decide to sleep them together in the same cot for the first few weeks As soon as any of your babies start to roll, move them into their own cots to ensure that they will not roll onto their siblings and possibly restrict their airways. It is important that this is done safely and Twins Trust have produced a factsheet on keeping babies safer when sleeping.

Sleep products

There are a large number of sleeping products available to buy. The Lullaby Trust have guidelines to help you make an informed choice here.

Reducing the risk of SIDS

Sadly, some babies die suddenly and unexpectedly during their sleep for no explainable reason. This is called Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Parents of multiples need to be particularly vigilant as multiple birth babies are more likely to be born premature or have a low birth weight and are therefore at a higher risk of SIDS.

Unfortunately we don't know why some babies die of SIDS. However, we do know that placing a baby to sleep on their back reduces the risk, while exposing a baby to cigarette smoke or overheating increases the risk. For more details on reducing the risk of SIDS please look at the Lullaby Trust website and on our factsheet. Remember that SIDS is rare, so don’t let worrying about it stop you enjoying your babies’ first few months. But do follow the advice to reduce the risks as much as possible.