Can my baby sleep in a swing?
A swing isn’t a routine sleep space. If your baby falls asleep there, move them to a firm, flat sleep surface on their back as soon as possible.
The short answer
The American Academy of Pediatrics says that if a baby falls asleep in a swing, move them to a firm sleep surface on their back as soon as possible. Follow the product instructions for supervised use while your baby is awake.
Use a sleep space made for sleep
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing babies on their backs for sleep on a firm, flat surface in a crib, bassinet, portable crib or play yard that meets safety standards. A swing is a sitting device, not the recommended routine sleep surface.
If your baby falls asleep in a swing, the AAP says to move them to a firm sleep surface on their back as soon as possible. Keep pillows, loose blankets, toys and other soft items out of the sleep area.
Follow the swing instructions while awake
Use a swing only as the manufacturer directs and supervise your baby. Check the product’s age, size and restraint instructions. A product that soothes a baby or helps them nap briefly doesn’t replace a safe sleep space.
If your baby has a medical condition or your care team has given you sleep instructions, ask how those instructions apply. Don’t add wedges, positioners or extra padding to change a sleep surface.
Make the next handoff clear
If another caregiver is taking over, tell them where the baby fell asleep and whether they have been moved to their sleep space. A short note can help keep the handoff clear, but a log can’t make an unsafe sleep surface safe.
This guide follows American Academy of Pediatrics guidance for babies up to one year of age in the United States. Follow your local product safety rules and health service advice. For general sleep logging, see what a newborn sleep log can and can’t tell you.
Sources and further reading
- American Academy of Pediatrics guidance on safe sleep
- American Academy of Pediatrics 2022 safe sleep policy statement
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.