Safer Sleep

How to ensure your baby sleeps safely and reduce the risk of SIDS

Summer

Check out and bookmark the Lullaby Trust video on how to continue following safer sleep advice in the warmer weather.

For advice on how to dress your baby for sleep in warmer climates, visit: https://rednose.org.au/article/how-to-dress-baby-for-sleep

 

Winter

It can be tempting to wrap your baby up to keep them warm, however we know that overheating a baby increases the chances of SIDS (also known as cot death). Research shows babies are better to be cooler than too hot.


 

 


Feet to Foot

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The best sleeping position for your baby is on their back, with their feet at the bottom of the cot, this is known as the ‘feet to foot’ position.

From day one put your baby on their back for every sleep, day and night, as the chance of SIDS is particularly high for babies who are sometimes placed on their front or side.

Once your baby can move themselves from their back to their front and back again by themselves, they will be able to find their own sleeping position.

For more information check out the Fact Sheet at the link below:

What bedding does my baby need?

Firmly tucked in sheets and a lightweight blanket or a baby sleep bag are all that are required.

Watch this short video for advice on what supports safer sleep and what you should avoid.

Remember:

  • Clear cot
  • Firm, flat, waterproof mattress

Clear cot

Babies are at higher risk of SIDS if they have their heads covered, so it is safest to keep baby’s cot clear of any items such as bumpers, toys and loose bedding. Unnecessary items in a baby’s cot can also increase the risk of accidents.

No pillows or duvets;
No cot bumpers;
No soft toys;
No loose bedding;
No products (such as pods, nests, wedges or straps) that will keep your baby in one sleeping position.

 

In winter

Products which aren’t suitable for sleeps and naps

 

 

Bed sharing

The safest place for a baby to sleep is in their own clear, flat, separate sleep space, such as a cot or moses basket. However, we know that many parents find themselves bed sharing whether they mean to or not. Therefore, it’s important to follow this advice and all other safer sleep advice to reduce the risk of SIDS.

For further advice about safe sleep for your baby please contact your SSAFA Health Visitor or SSAFA Midwife.

Or check this leaflet from the Lullaby Trust's website: