The 5 Best Mattresses for Co-Sleeping or Bed Sharing with Your Baby
Co-sleeping, also known as bed-sharing, is a cherished practice for many families, offering numerous benefits such as promoting bonding, simplifying night-time feedings, and improving sleep quality for both parents and infants. However, when it comes to co-sleeping, ensuring a safe and comfortable sleep environment is very important.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of mattresses, with an emphasis on the best options for co-sleeping with your baby.
We will discuss crucial factors to consider, such as safety, comfort, support, and durability, and provide a list of top-rated mattresses that cater to the unique requirements of bed-sharing families.
When choosing a mattress for co-sleeping, prioritize safety features such as firmness, breathability, and hypoallergenic materials. Additionally, always consult your pediatrician before deciding to co-sleep, and follow safe sleep guidelines to minimize risks for your baby.
Quick Summary: Important features to look for in a co-sleeping mattress
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Firmness | – Firm enough to prevent sinking – Reduces risk of suffocation and SIDS |
| Fit | – Snug fit within bed frame – Prevents dangerous gaps |
| Surface | – Flat surface for safe movement and rolling |
| Size | – Spacious enough for parents and baby – Reduces risk of accidental rollovers |
| Waterproof and Hypoallergenic | – Waterproof cover prevents liquid absorption – Hypoallergenic materials protect from allergens |
| Breathability | – Breathable materials prevent overheating – Air circulation for safety |
| Free from Harmful Chemicals | – No flame retardants, phthalates, or VOCs – CertiPUR-US or Greenguard Gold certifications |
QUICK PICKS:
5 BEST CO-SLEEPING MATTRESSES
- BEST OVERALL (EDITOR’S PICK) – Botanical Bliss Organic Latex
- BEST EXTRA FIRM OPTION – Plank
- BEST FOR SIDE SLEEPERS – Helix Twilight
- BEST FIRM MEMORY FOAM OPTION – AS1
- BEST FOR HEAVIER WEIGHT LOADS- Titan Firm
Top 5: Best Co-Sleeping Mattresses for Bed Sharing with Your Baby
1. The Botanical Bliss by Plushbeds (medium-firm)
HIGH QUALITY PRESSURE RELIEF - 100% ORGANIC LATEX
The Botanical Bliss latex mattress by PlushBeds is a supportive and pressure relieving latex mattress at a very competitive price for the quality. Many competitors make their latex mattresses with other layers to save on cost, but the Botanical Bliss is made with 100% organic latex throughout the entire mattress. This provides high end support and pressure relief while also being 100% organic and hypoallergenic. This mattress comes in a variety of split king and queen options which makes it great for couples who have different sleep needs or for individuals who have different firmness preferences.
- All organic materials
- Easily unzip cover and reorganize layers to adjust comfort/firmness
- Made in the USA
What our testers are saying:
The Botanical Bliss mattress by PlushBeds is an excellent option for co-sleeping with a baby, thanks to its medium-firm level and organic materials that prioritize safety and comfort for both parents and infants.
Why we like it for co-sleeping:
Medium-firm level:
The medium-firm level of the Botanical Bliss mattress provides the right balance of support and comfort for adults while ensuring a safe sleeping surface for the baby. A firm surface is crucial for reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) when co-sleeping. Medium-firm mattresses are firm enough to prevent the baby from sinking while still being comfortable for the parents.
Organic materials:
The Botanical Bliss mattress is made from natural, organic materials, including GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certified latex and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified organic cotton. These certifications guarantee that the materials used in the mattress are free from harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring a healthier and safer sleep environment for your baby.
Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant:
The organic latex and cotton used in the Botanical Bliss mattress are naturally hypoallergenic, which can protect your baby from potential allergens. Additionally, the natural latex is resistant to dust mites, further contributing to a clean and healthy sleep environment.
Breathability:
The Botanical Bliss mattress features an open-cell structure in the latex layer and organic cotton cover, which promotes air circulation and breathability. A breathable mattress can help prevent overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS.
Durability:
The high-quality organic materials used in the Botanical Bliss mattress ensure durability and longevity, making it a sound investment for families who plan to co-sleep with their baby.
2. The Plank Firm by Plank Mattress
BEST FIRM MATTRESS
Inspired by the minimalist approach to sleep in the Far East, the firmer, flatter, flippable surface of the Plank mattress creates a neutral spine position that’s better for your back and posture overall. The dual comfort design offers two variations: the top side of the mattress features an ultra-firm sleep experience; the bottom side of the mattress feels like a traditional firm, allowing for a highly customizable sleep. Each Plank mattress is manufactured to order in their own factory in Arizona and shipped directly to your door.
- Built specifically for people who love a firm mattress
- Flippable (2 sided) - Firm and Extra-firm sleeping option
- Reputable manufacturer. 1000+ reviews.
What our testers are saying:
The Plank Firm mattress is an excellent choice for co-sleeping with a baby, offering key features that prioritize safety and comfort. Here’s a quick review highlighting the benefits of the Plank Firm mattress for co-sleeping:
Why we like it for co-sleeping:
Extra firm level of comfort:
The Plank Firm mattress provides an extra firm level of comfort, which is crucial for the safety of your baby while co-sleeping. The firm surface ensures that your baby won’t sink into the mattress, reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Support and stability:
The extra firmness of the Plank Firm mattress offers excellent support and stability, which is essential when sharing a sleep surface with a baby. This ensures that the mattress won’t sag or create uneven surfaces that could pose a risk to your baby.
Breathability:
The Plank Firm mattress features a breathable design, which helps regulate temperature and prevent overheating. This is essential for reducing the risk of SIDS and ensuring a comfortable sleep environment for your baby.
Minimal motion transfer:
The Plank Firm mattress’s extra firm surface helps minimize motion transfer, which is important when co-sleeping with a baby. This means that your baby’s sleep won’t be disrupted by the movements of other sleepers on the mattress.
This mattress also comes in a variety of popular odd sizes like olympic queen, RV king, RV queen and three-quarter.
WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE:
2-sided for firm and extra-firm comfort options. Built specifically for firm-mattress lovers.
3. The Helix Twilight by Helix Sleep
This is the firmest mattress that Helix manufactures. It is specifically formulated to be extra firm while still giving pressure relief to side sleepers. The Twilight does not have any sink or give. You will sit firmly on top of the mattress, keeping your body supported and flat. Helix makes all of their mattresses to order in their own factory in the USA. They are one of the most awarded manufacturers in the industry and highly reviewed, using quality materials that are made to last.
- Extra firm feel
- Built specifically for side sleepers
- Luxury pressure relief
- Highly Reviewed
- Made in the USA
- Supportive hybrid design
- Premium cooling cover
What our testers are saying:
The Helix Twilight mattress is an excellent option for side sleepers who are co-sleeping with their baby, offering a combination of support, comfort, and safety features tailored to their needs. Here’s a quick review highlighting the benefits of the Helix Twilight mattress for side sleepers co-sleeping with a baby:
Why we like it for co-sleeping:
Targeted support for side sleepers:
The Helix Twilight is specifically designed for side sleepers, providing targeted support to pressure points such as the shoulders and hips. This ensures that parents can maintain proper spinal alignment and sleep comfortably while sharing a bed with their baby.
Medium-firm comfort:
The Helix Twilight mattress offers a medium-firm level of comfort, which is ideal for both side sleepers and co-sleeping with a baby. This level of firmness ensures that the baby won’t sink into the mattress, reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Breathability:
The Helix Twilight mattress features a breathable design, with a cover made of soft, breathable fabric and a layer of Helix Dynamic Foam that promotes airflow. This helps regulate temperature and prevent overheating, which is crucial for a safe and comfortable sleep environment for both the baby and the side sleeper.
Motion isolation:
The Helix Twilight mattress is designed to minimize motion transfer, ensuring that the baby’s sleep won’t be disrupted by the movements of the side sleeper. This is particularly important when co-sleeping, as a peaceful sleep environment is essential for the baby’s well-being.
WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE:
Affordably priced. An extra-firm mattress made specifically for side sleepers.
4. The AS1 by Amerisleep
FIRM MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS
The AS1 is the firmest mattress that Amerisleep offers. It is a simple memory foam style construction with a luxury breathable cover. The base layer is made with high density support foam for ultimate firm support. The thin layer of memory style foam on top offers just enough comfort while not being to “soft”. if you prefer the feel of a memory foam mattress but want a firmer feel then this is a great mattress for you.
What our testers are saying:
The AS1 by Amerisleep is a fantastic option for co-sleepers who prefer a memory foam mattress while sharing their bed with their baby. Here’s a quick review highlighting the benefits of the AS1 mattress for co-sleeping families:
Why we like it for co-sleeping:
Firm comfort:
The AS1 is Amerisleep’s firmest model, offering a firm level of support that’s suitable for co-sleeping. This firmness ensures that the baby won’t sink into the mattress, reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Bio-Pur® memory foam:
Unlike traditional memory foam, Amerisleep’s Bio-Pur® memory foam is made with plant-based materials, making it more breathable and eco-friendly. This feature helps regulate temperature and prevent overheating, which is crucial for a safe sleep environment for your baby.
Responsive support:
The AS1 mattress provides responsive support, conforming to the body while maintaining proper spinal alignment. This ensures a comfortable sleeping surface for parents while keeping the baby safe.
Motion isolation:
The AS1 mattress’s memory foam construction excels at minimizing motion transfer, ensuring that the baby’s sleep won’t be disrupted by the movements of other sleepers on the mattress. This is especially important when co-sleeping, as a peaceful sleep environment is essential for the baby’s well-being.
CertiPUR-US® certified:
The AS1 mattress is CertiPUR-US® certified, which means it’s free from harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This certification ensures a healthier sleep environment for your baby.
WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE:
Firm memory foam feel. Breathable and sleeps cool.
4. The Titan Firm Hybrid
BUILT FOR HEAVIER WEIGHT LOADS
SUPPORTIVE AND DURABLE CONSTRUCTION
The Titan Hybrid by Brooklyn Bedding was created specifically as a plus-size solution for plus-size sleep. It is designed with substantial support for heavier sleepers, the Titan Hybrid pairs two layers of the highest quality foam with heavy duty, premium coils—delivering extra lift and extra durability for the life of your mattress.
- Built specifically for heavier weight loads
- Made in the USA
- Firm supportive feel
- Great value
What our testers are saying:
The Titan Firm mattress is an outstanding option for co-sleepers who require a co-sleeping mattress that can support heavier weight loads and provide long-lasting durability. Here’s a quick review highlighting the benefits of the Titan Firm mattress for co-sleeping families:
Why we like it for co-sleeping:
Strong support:
The Titan Firm mattress is specifically designed to provide robust support for heavier individuals or couples. Its reinforced support system ensures a stable and secure sleeping surface for co-sleeping with a baby, reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Firm comfort:
The Titan Firm mattress offers a firm level of comfort, which is crucial for the safety of your baby while co-sleeping. A firm surface ensures that your baby won’t sink into the mattress, providing a secure sleep environment.
Durability:
The Titan Firm mattress is built with high-quality, durable materials that are designed to withstand heavier weight loads and provide long-lasting support. This makes it a sound investment for families who plan to co-sleep with their baby over an extended period.
Breathability:
The Titan Firm mattress features a breathable design, with a quilted top and cooling gel memory foam that helps regulate temperature and prevent overheating. This is essential for a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby.
Motion isolation:
The Titan Firm mattress’s construction minimizes motion transfer, ensuring that your baby’s sleep won’t be disrupted by the movements of other sleepers on the mattress. This is particularly important when co-sleeping, as a peaceful sleep environment is essential for the baby’s well-being.
WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE: Firm feel and heavy duty support. Build specifically for heavier individuals.
Safety features to look for in a bed sharing mattress
When choosing a mattress for co-sleeping or bed-sharing, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some critical safety factors to consider:
Firmness:
The mattress should be firm enough to prevent the baby from sinking into it. This is important to reduce the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A soft, plush mattress might be comfortable for adults, but it’s not safe for babies.
Fit:
The mattress should fit snugly within the bed frame. Gaps between the mattress and the bed frame can create a dangerous situation where a baby could become trapped.
Surface:
The mattress surface should be flat, not contoured or ridged. A flat surface ensures your baby can move and roll safely.
Size:
If bed-sharing, the mattress should be spacious enough to accommodate both parents and the baby comfortably, reducing the risk of accidental rollovers.
Waterproof and Hypoallergenic:
A mattress with a waterproof cover can prevent liquids from seeping into the core of the mattress, which could harbor bacteria or mold. Hypoallergenic materials can protect your baby from potential allergens.
Breathability:
A breathable mattress can help prevent overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS. Look for mattresses made from breathable materials or those with specific air circulation designs.
Free from Harmful Chemicals:
The mattress should be free from harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to your baby’s health. Opt for mattresses with CertiPUR-US or Greenguard Gold certifications.
Remember, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep on their own sleep surface like a crib or bassinet in the parents’ room for at least the first six months to a year for safety reasons. If you choose to bed-share, it is essential to make the environment as safe as possible for your baby.
The Different Types of Mattresses and Which are Best for Co Sleeping or Bed Sharing
When considering co-sleeping or bed-sharing with your baby, it’s essential to understand the different types of mattresses and their suitability for this purpose. Here, we will examine various mattress types and discuss their pros and cons for co-sleeping.
| Mattress Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Innerspring | – Good support – Various firmness levels – Some models are firm enough for safe co-sleeping | – May not be as breathable – Lower-quality models may have poor motion isolation |
| Memory Foam | – Excellent motion isolation – Provides pressure relief and support | – Tends to retain heat – May not be firm enough for safe co-sleeping |
| Latex | – More breathable than memory foam – Some models offer sufficient firmness for safe co-sleeping – Natural latex is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites | – Can be expensive |
| Hybrid | – Balance of support, pressure relief, and breathability – Some models may provide the right firmness level for co-sleeping | – Lower-quality models may have poor motion isolation |
| Air | – Adjustable firmness can be customized for safe co-sleeping | – Less durable and prone to punctures or leaks – May not provide the most stable surface for co-sleeping |
Innerspring:
Innerspring mattresses consist of steel coils that provide support, topped with layers of foam or padding for comfort.
Pros: They offer good support and can be found in various firmness levels. Some innerspring mattresses have a firm enough surface for safe co-sleeping.
Cons: They may not be as breathable as other options, and lower-quality models may have poor motion isolation, which can disturb your baby’s sleep.
Memory Foam:
Memory foam mattresses are made from viscoelastic foam that contours to the body, providing pressure relief and support.
Pros: They can offer excellent motion isolation, which is helpful when sharing a bed with a baby to minimize disturbances during sleep.
Cons: They tend to retain heat and may not be firm enough for safe co-sleeping with an infant, as the foam’s contouring properties can pose a suffocation risk.
Latex:
Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic rubber and provide a combination of support, pressure relief, and durability.
Pros: They are generally more breathable than memory foam, and some models offer sufficient firmness for safe co-sleeping. Natural latex is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it a healthier option for your baby.
Cons: Latex mattresses can be expensive
Hybrid:
Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring support with layers of memory foam, latex, or other materials.
Pros: They can offer a balance of support, pressure relief, and breathability, and some models may provide the right firmness level for co-sleeping.
Cons: Like innerspring mattresses, lower-quality hybrids may have poor motion isolation, potentially disturbing your baby’s sleep.
Air:
Air mattresses use air chambers for support, with adjustable firmness levels controlled by adding or removing air.
Pros: Their adjustable firmness can be an advantage, as you can customize the mattress to a safe level of firmness for co-sleeping.
Cons: They can be less durable, prone to punctures or leaks, and may not provide the most stable surface for co-sleeping.
How to Prepare a Safe Co Sleeping Environment: 9 Tips
Setting up your mattress and sleep environment for co-sleeping is crucial to ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for both you and your baby. Here are some tips to help you prepare your sleep space for co-sleeping:
1. Choose the right mattress:
As discussed earlier, select a firm, flat, and breathable mattress that is free from harmful chemicals. The mattress should provide adequate support and be spacious enough to accommodate all sleepers.
2. Secure the mattress:
Make sure your mattress fits snugly within the bed frame to prevent gaps that could pose a risk to your baby. If you’re using a platform bed, ensure it’s sturdy and supportive.
3. Minimize bedding:
Avoid using excessive or heavy bedding, as it can pose a suffocation risk for your baby. Opt for a fitted sheet and a light blanket or sleep sack for your baby instead of heavy comforters or duvets.
4. Keep pillows away:
Keep pillows away from your baby to reduce the risk of suffocation. If you need a pillow for your own comfort, use a small or flat pillow and keep it away from your baby’s sleep area.
5. Position your baby correctly:
Place your baby on their back to sleep, as this is the safest sleep position to reduce the risk of SIDS. Keep your baby’s sleep area separate from adult sleep areas by using a sleep positioner, rolled towels, or a co-sleeper attachment if needed.
6. Maintain a comfortable room temperature:
The ideal room temperature for babies is between 68-72°F (20-22°C). Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS, so dress your baby in light sleepwear and avoid using heaters or excessive blankets.
7. Eliminate hazards:
Remove any potential hazards from the sleep environment, such as cords, electronics, and loose items that could pose a choking or entanglement risk.
8. Ensure adequate lighting:
Use a soft nightlight to maintain visibility in the room during nighttime feedings or diaper changes without disrupting your baby’s sleep.
9. Follow safe sleep guidelines:
Always follow safe sleep guidelines recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, such as not smoking, avoiding alcohol and medications that may cause drowsiness, and keeping your baby’s sleep area separate from adult sleep areas.
Remember, co-sleeping or bed-sharing comes with inherent risks, and it’s important to consult with your pediatrician before deciding to share a sleep surface with your baby. The safest option is room-sharing, where the baby sleeps in a separate crib or bassinet in the same room as the parents.
FAQs
How firm should a mattress be for co-sleeping or bed-sharing?
A: The mattress should be firm enough to prevent your baby from sinking into it, reducing the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While adults may prefer softer mattresses, it’s important to prioritize your baby’s safety when co-sleeping.
What size mattress is best for co-sleeping?
A: A spacious mattress is recommended for co-sleeping, ensuring there is enough room for both parents and the baby to sleep comfortably. A queen or king-size mattress is typically suitable for bed-sharing, but make sure it fits your room and bed frame properly.
Are memory foam mattresses safe for co-sleeping?
A: Memory foam mattresses can be less suitable for co-sleeping due to their heat-retaining properties and contouring nature, which may pose a suffocation risk. It’s essential to choose a firm, breathable mattress for safe co-sleeping, regardless of the material.
How do I keep my baby safe when co-sleeping?
A: To keep your baby safe while co-sleeping, use a firm, flat mattress with minimal bedding, keep pillows away from your baby, and place your baby on their back to sleep. Always follow safe sleep guidelines and consult with your pediatrician before deciding to co-sleep.
Can I use a mattress topper or pad for co-sleeping?
A: If you choose to use a mattress topper or pad, ensure it is firm, flat, and securely attached to the mattress. Avoid using soft or plush toppers, as they can pose a suffocation risk for your baby.
What certifications should I look for in a co-sleeping mattress?
A: Look for certifications such as CertiPUR-US or Greenguard Gold, which ensure the mattress is free from harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These certifications indicate that the mattress is a healthier and safer option for your baby.
In conclusion, choosing the best mattress for co-sleeping or bed-sharing with your baby is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration of safety factors, comfort, and support. A firm, breathable, and hypoallergenic mattress is essential to ensure a safe sleep environment for your little one. While there are various types of mattresses available, the most important aspect is prioritizing your baby’s safety and well-being above all else.
Remember to consult with your pediatrician before deciding to co-sleep and follow safe sleep guidelines to minimize risks for your baby. Ultimately, the best mattress for co-sleeping is one that provides a secure and comfortable sleep environment for both parents and infants, fostering a positive and nurturing bond between you and your child.
