What are the safe sleep guidelines?

Here are some safe sleeping guidelines recommended by the Lullaby Trust to reduce the risk of SIDS:

Back to sleep

Always place your baby on their back to sleep, both for naps and at night, for the first 6 months. This is the safest sleeping position for infants and reduces the risk of SIDS.

Use a firm and flat sleep surface

Babies should sleep on a firm and flat mattress that fits the crib or cot snugly without any gaps around the edges. Avoid using soft surfaces like sofas, cushions, or soft mattresses for sleep.

Keep the sleep environment clear

Remove any soft bedding, pillows, toys, or loose bedding from the sleep area. These items can increase the risk of suffocation or overheating. Use a fitted sheet and consider using a baby sleeping bag or lightweight blanket for warmth.

Room-sharing, not bed-sharing

The Lullaby Trust recommends room-sharing with your baby for the first 6 to 12 months, but they should have their own sleep surface, such as a crib, cot, or bassinet. Avoid bed-sharing with your baby, especially if you are a smoker, have consumed alcohol or drugs, or if your baby was premature or had a low birth weight.

Keep the room at a comfortable temperature

Make sure your baby's sleep environment is not too hot or too cold. The room temperature should be between 16-20°C (61-68°F), and your baby should be dressed appropriately for sleep (not too many layers or too few).

Avoid smoking around your baby

Keep your home and car smoke-free, as exposure to tobacco smoke increases the risk of SIDS. If you smoke, it's important to quit and avoid smoking near your baby or their sleep area.

Breastfeed if possible

Breastfeeding has been linked to a reduced risk of SIDS. If you can, try to breastfeed your baby. If you're unable to breastfeed, bottle feeding is still safe, but try to hold your baby upright during feeding and avoid propping the bottle.

Give your baby a pacifier for sleep

Using a pacifier during sleep has been associated with a lower risk of SIDS. Offer a pacifier when putting your baby down to sleep, but don't force it if they don't want it or if it falls out during sleep.

Avoid overheating

Dress your baby in clothing appropriate for the room temperature and avoid overdressing or using too many blankets. Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS.

Following these safe sleeping guidelines from the Lullaby Trust can help create a safer sleep environment for your baby and reduce the risk of SIDS. It's important to stay informed and seek advice from healthcare professionals if you have any concerns about your baby's sleep or safety.