Quick Health Bytes Series – Safer Sleep for Your Baby

Why safer sleep matters

Following safer sleep advice can significantly reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) (sometimes called cot death). This guidance applies to every sleep – day and night.

The ABC of safer sleep

Remember:

• A – Alone: Your baby should sleep in their own space
• B – Back: Always place your baby on their back to sleep
• C – Clear cot: Keep the sleep space clear

The safest place for your baby to sleep

• In a cot or Moses basket
• In the same room as you for the first 6 months
• On a firm, flat, waterproof mattress
• With no toys, pillows, or loose bedding

Sleeping in the same room (but not the same bed) lowers the risk of SIDS.

How to put your baby down safely

• Always place your baby on their back for every sleep
• Use the “feet to foot” position (feet at the bottom of the cot)
• Keep your baby’s head uncovered
• Use lightweight blankets tucked in securely or a baby sleeping bag

Once your baby can roll over, you do not need to keep turning them back, but always place them on their back to start with. ()

Keep your baby’s cot clear

Do not use:

• Pillows or duvets
• Cot bumpers
• Soft toys
• Sleep positioners, pods, or nests

A clear, firm sleep space is one of the most important ways to keep your baby safe.

Room temperature and avoiding overheating

• Keep the room between 16–20°C
• Use light layers – a folded blanket counts as two
• Check your baby’s chest or back (not hands/feet)

Babies can overheat easily, which increases the risk of SIDS.

• Do not use hot water bottles or electric blankets
• Remove hats and extra layers indoors

Sleeping arrangements and higher-risk situations

• Share a room, not a bed for the first 6 months
• Never sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair (very high risk)
• Avoid bed-sharing if you:
  • Smoke
  • Have had alcohol or drugs
  • Are very tired
  • Your baby was premature or low birth weight

Sleeping on a sofa or armchair with a baby is particularly dangerous.

Keep your baby smoke-free

• Do not smoke during pregnancy or after birth
• Do not allow smoking in your home or near your baby

Exposure to smoke significantly increases the risk of SIDS.

Feeding and comfort

• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS
• A dummy at sleep time may reduce risk (once feeding is established)

Swaddling, slings and car seats

• If swaddling:
  • Always place baby on their back
  • Stop when baby starts rolling
  • Do not overheat or cover the head
• When using slings/carriers:
  • Keep baby’s face visible and uncovered
• Car seats:
  • Use for travel only
  • Avoid long periods of sleeping in seated positions

Remember

✔ Back to sleep, every sleep
✔ Keep the cot clear
✔ Same room for 6 months
✔ Firm, flat mattress
✔ Keep baby smoke-free

NHS safer sleep guidance

https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/baby/baby-basics/newborn-and-baby-sleeping-advice-for-parents/safe-sleep-advice-for-babies/

🌐 Healthier Together – Baby information

https://nenc-healthiertogether.nhs.uk/parentscarers/keeping-your-child-safe/safe-sleeping

Need support?

If you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s sleep, please speak to:

• Your GP practice
• Health visitor
• Midwife