How do I get my baby used to his own bed?
Sleeping independently in one's own bed – the right time
Parents often need a lot of patience to get their child used to sleeping in their own crib. Consistency and a sensitive approach are crucial. Many experts recommend making the first attempt when the baby is about 12 months old – provided they are healthy, content, and feel secure.
There is no "right" time, as every child develops individually. For some families, the third or fourth month of life is already a good moment, especially when wake periods become longer. During this time, a height-adjustable co-sleeper with a mattress can offer a gentle transitional solution – the baby sleeps safely in its own sleeping environment but remains close to the parents.
It is important not to combine the transition with other major changes such as starting daycare or moving. While co-sleeping has advantages, such as stronger bonding and convenient access for nighttime feeding, in the long term, independent sleeping in one's own bed promotes the child's independence.
Getting your baby used to their own bed – a few rules
Getting a child used to sleeping in a bed is a complex process. Above all, you need time and patience. To start, it's worth making their crib comfortable. A good idea is to get a baby used to a co-sleeper. Such a crib stands next to the parents' bed, so the baby feels close and can fall asleep peacefully. Over time, the co-sleeper can be converted into a single bed and moved a little further away. When putting a child to sleep, daily routines should not be forgotten. It's worth putting their favorite cuddly toy in bed with them. Before going to sleep, parents should give a kiss, and Mom can sing a lullaby. It's also very important to quiet the baby before bedtime so that Mom or Dad can massage the baby's back or read goodnight stories. Sleep comfort is extremely important, so parents must check that the pillow is properly arranged and there are no toys in the bed. The room temperature should also be appropriate, not too cold and not too hot. Parents' nervousness is transferred to the child, so Mom or Dad must calm down when the baby falls asleep.
Learning to sleep in a newborn's bed
Given that there is no specific age at which a baby should sleep in a bed, many parents try to accustom the newborn to independent sleep from the first weeks of life. The already mentioned co-sleeper in the size 90 x 40 cm is the perfect solution. Such a crib can be converted into a single bed and moved to the nursery after a few weeks. When should a baby sleep alone? Such a move is worthwhile when the newborn is about six months old. The longer the child sleeps in its parents' bedroom at night, the harder it will be for them to accept that they have to sleep all night without Mom and Dad. Whether the baby sleeps in the parents' bed or in its own crib is something each family must decide for themselves. Every case is different, and sometimes plans have to be reviewed. An example is a restless newborn or a mother who falls asleep while feeding and cannot put the baby in the cradle.
How to teach a child not to sleep with their parents?
Getting a child used to sleeping alone in a crib is quite difficult and time-consuming. Some children are more difficult and need more time to get used to changes. Others adapt very quickly to new conditions. Parents should approach this calmly and gently. Dynamic changes are not a good solution. Sometimes a baby doesn't sleep in its own bed because it's too early. In this case, it's worth waiting a little longer. Changes should be made gradually. The first is to place a crib in the parents' bedroom. You can also set up a crib in the nursery and sleep several nights near the baby on a mattress. A good way is to hold the child's hand when they are in bed and sing them a lullaby. Closeness to parents is the most important thing and makes it easier to fall asleep. It's a good idea to have Dad put the baby to sleep if Mom has always done it before. Learning can take several days. However, if it takes weeks, this is a sign that parents probably still need to wait because the baby is not yet ready for such a change.
Updated: 2026
About the Author
Babyhafen Expert Team
For over 13 years, Babyhafen has focused on safe and practical sleeping solutions for babies. Our recommendations are based on experience, customer feedback, and current safety recommendations.
Babyhafen develops cribs and co-sleepers for parents in Germany with a focus on safety, comfort, and everyday usability.