Can Twins Share a Cot? Safe Sleeping For Twins
Getting twins to sleep through the night is a challenge that many parents of multiples face. As new parents expecting twins, the prospect of sleepless nights can be daunting. In this blog post, we'll explore the possibilities of twins sharing a cot, offer advice on encouraging twins to sleep, and discuss the best sleeping arrangements for new-born twins.
Encouraging Twins to Sleep:
1. Safe Sleeping Position:
Place your babies on their backs with their feet touching the bottom of the cot or Moses basket. Ensure blankets are securely tucked in to prevent overheating, especially if twins are sharing a cot.
2. Establish a Bedtime Routine:
Consistency is key. Stick to a bedtime routine to help babies settle into a sleep pattern. Coordinating night feeds in the early days can streamline the process.
3. Flexibility:
Be flexible with sleeping arrangements. If one twin prefers a cot while the other is more comfortable in a Moses basket, consider placing the cots next to each other.
4. Twin Bond:
Twins often find comfort in being close to each other. Placing cots side by side can allow them to see and touch each other.
Can Twins Share a Cot?
1. Co-Bedding:
According to the NHS, twins can share a single large cot bed (typically 140x70cm) in a practice known as co-bedding. Co-bedding helps regulate body temperatures, sleep cycles, and soothes both twins.
2. Safety Tips:
Follow safe sleeping advice as you would for a single baby. Place twins on their backs with the tops of their heads facing each other or side by side with their feet at opposite ends of the cot.
3. Moses Basket:
While co-bedding is safe in a cot, using a single Moses basket for two babies is not recommended due to limited space.
4. Co-Sleeping Benefits:
Co-bedding allows twins to stay in the same room as parents for a more extended period. For triplets, placing them next to each other across a cot is recommended while they're still small enough.
Sleeping Arrangements for Twins:
1. Room Dedication:
If undecided on a dedicated nursery, two Moses baskets are cost-effective, mobile, and fit well in the parents' room.
2. Limited Space:
If space is a constraint, a single large cot bed for co-bedding is a safe and space-efficient option.
3. Ideal Scenario:
The ideal scenario is two separate cot beds. Opting for mini cot beds with a mattress size of 120x60cm can save space while providing all the functionality of full-size cot beds.
Conclusion: As you embark on your parenting journey with twins, the question of sleep arrangements is crucial. Whether considering co-bedding in a single cot or opting for separate sleeping spaces, prioritizing safety and comfort is paramount. Each family's circumstances are unique, so choose an arrangement that suits your space, preferences, and, most importantly, ensures a good night's sleep for everyone. Sweet dreams await your growing family!