When to Move Your Baby to Their Own Room

One of the biggest milestones in early parenthood is deciding when to transition your baby to their own room. This decision involves balancing safety recommendations, sleep quality, and your family’s unique needs. While some parents make the switch early, others prefer to keep their baby in the same room for as long as possible.

There isn’t a single “right” time to move your baby to their own space, but understanding expert recommendations, sleep development, and practical considerations can help you make an informed decision.

What Experts Recommend

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that babies should share a room with their parents for at least the first six months, and ideally up to one year. Research has shown that room-sharing can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by up to 50%. However, this doesn’t mean every family must keep their baby in their bedroom for an entire year.

As babies grow and develop better sleep patterns, some parents choose to transition them to their own room earlier—typically around six to seven months. This timeline aligns with reduced SIDS risk and increased independence in sleep habits.

That said, every baby is different, and it’s important to consider individual readiness and household dynamics.

Signs Your Baby May Be Ready for Their Own Room

While expert recommendations provide a general guideline, your baby’s sleep patterns, temperament, and developmental milestones play a role in determining when to move them to a separate space.

Your baby may be ready for their own room if:

• They sleep through most of the night or wake up only once or twice for feeding.
• They self-soothe (i.e., fall back asleep on their own if they wake up briefly).
• They are easily disturbed by parental movements or noises (such as snoring or getting in and out of bed).
• You feel comfortable monitoring them remotely with a baby monitor.

For some families, making the transition before the 8-month mark is helpful. Around this time, babies begin to develop separation anxiety, which can make the move more challenging if delayed.

When to Wait Before Moving Your Baby

Some parents prefer to keep their baby in the same room for longer, either due to safety concerns or personal comfort. You may want to delay moving your baby if:

• They are still waking frequently at night and need easy access for feedings.
• You have concerns about SIDS and feel more comfortable having them close.
• Your baby experiences frequent nighttime distress and transitions poorly to new environments.
• You simply prefer to keep them near for bonding and peace of mind.

Every family’s situation is different, and there’s no rush to transition if it doesn’t feel right for you.

How to Make the Transition Smooth

Once you decide that it’s time to move your baby to their own room, a gradual and thoughtful approach can make the process easier for both baby and parents.

1. Introduce the Room Gradually

Start by spending time in the new room during the day so your baby becomes familiar with their surroundings. Playing in the space and using it for diaper changes or storytime can create positive associations.

2. Begin with Naps

A great way to ease into the transition is by starting with naps in the new room. If your baby naps well in their crib or bassinet in the new space, they may adjust more easily to sleeping there overnight.

3. Keep a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Babies thrive on predictability, so maintaining a familiar bedtime routine—such as a warm bath, lullaby, or reading a short book—helps signal that it’s time to sleep.

4. Use a Baby Monitor for Peace of Mind

Investing in a reliable baby monitor can help parents feel reassured while allowing their baby some independence. If you’re anxious about the separation, a video monitor can provide extra comfort.

5. Maintain a Safe Sleep Environment

No matter where your baby sleeps, safe sleep guidelines remain essential. Make sure to:

• Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.
• Keep the crib free of loose blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals.
• Place your baby on their back for sleep.
• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature to avoid overheating.

If your baby has been accustomed to sleeping in a bassinet in your room, transitioning to a crib in their own space can take some adjustment, but maintaining a consistent routine and sleep environment will help.

How Moving to Their Own Room Affects Baby’s Sleep

One common concern parents have is whether moving their baby to another room will disrupt their sleep or improve it. The impact varies depending on the baby:

• Some babies sleep better in their own room because they are less disturbed by parental noises and movements.
• Others struggle with the adjustment initially but adapt within a few days.
• Some babies wake up just as frequently as they did before, requiring patience during the transition.

A study suggested that babies who transition to their own room earlier (around 4–6 months) tend to sleep for longer stretches. However, sleep patterns vary significantly between babies, so results may differ.

Final Thoughts

Deciding when to move your baby to their own room is a personal choice that depends on safety guidelines, your baby’s sleep habits, and your family’s preferences. While the AAP recommends room-sharing for at least six months, many parents find that transitioning around six to seven months works well for their baby’s sleep development.

The key is to move at a pace that feels right for both you and your baby. Whether you transition early or wait longer, following a gentle and consistent approach will help ensure a smooth adjustment for everyone.