Safe Sleep for Babies
Sleep is a really important for your baby’s growth and development. Getting into sleep routines can be difficult when you have a new baby or are tired yourself. Sometimes the easiest options about where and how your baby falls asleep can put them at risk. By remembering some simple guidelines, there are things you can do to keep your baby safe while they are sleeping. This will reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known as cot death.
Things You Can Do to Help
- The best place for your baby to sleep is in a cot or moses basket, in the same room as you, until they are 6 months old
- Put your baby to sleep on their back with their feet at the bottom of the cot. Once your baby can roll or move they will find their own comfortable position
- Tuck in loose blankets, don’t use duvets, pillows or cot bumpers
- Use a firm, flat mattress that is in good condition
- Remove toys and teddies from where your baby is sleeping
- Keep the room between 16-20°C to make sure baby is not too hot or cold
- Keep your baby in a smoke free environment
- Don’t prop up a bottle for your baby to feed, your baby could choke
- Don’t share a bed with your baby if you have been drinking, taken drugs or if you smoke
- Avoid sleeping on a sofa or armchair with your baby, as this can increase the risk of SIDS.
Who Can Help?
You can contact the Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
