Is It Safe for My Baby to Sleep in a Car Seat?

Baby Sleeping in Car Seat

If you are confused about whether it is safe to let your baby sleep all night in a car seat, you are not alone. The Lullaby Trust shares that young babies may be at risk of SIDS if they travel while sitting in an upright position for too long.What is the danger?

Why is sleeping in car seat dangerous?

The danger comes from letting your baby sleep seated upright or on an incline. ‘When your baby is seated, her heavy head can fall forward causing difficulty breathing…and even suffocation,’ explains Dr. Harvey Karp. ‘That is why car seats—outside of moving cars—are not safe for naps or overnight sleep for the first 6 months of life.’ 

The same risk comes from upright buggies and baby swings. The good news is that an entirely flat swing—like SNOO Smart Sleeper—is a perfectly safe way to aid your baby’s sleep with the womb-like rocking all infants love. 

How long can a baby be in an infant car seat?

The recommended time established by safety experts and manufacturers says babies should only be in car seats for up to two hours. 

Baby sleeping in car seats: Final thoughts

That said, do not panic if your baby dozes off in the car. The droning sounds of the engine remind your little one of the womb—and may help send her into slumberland. And, the jiggly movements seem to keep babies stimulated enough to promote breathing. However, the Lullaby Trust recommends that you move your child to a flat, firm sleeping surface as soon as you leave the car.

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.