Safe Sleep: How to Create the Safest Sleep Environment for Your Baby

Safe sleep is one of the most important topics for any new parent. The risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is highest in the first six months of life, and following safe sleep guidance makes a significant difference.

The basics: ABCD of safe sleep

**Alone** — baby should sleep alone in their own sleep space, not in a bed with parents or siblings, unless following a recognised and specific safe co-sleeping framework.

**Back** — always place baby to sleep on their back, not their side or front. This remains the single most important safe sleep message.

**Cot** — a firm, flat sleep surface in a cot, bassinet, or Moses basket with a firm mattress and a fitted sheet is safest. No raised sleep positioners or wedges.

**Drug and smoke free** — babies should not sleep in spaces where they have been or will be exposed to tobacco smoke. Alcohol, certain drugs, and extreme tiredness also increase the risk of accidental overlay for sleeping adults.

Room sharing without bed sharing

The safest arrangement for the first six months is for baby to sleep in their own sleep space in the same room as a parent. This has been shown to reduce SIDS risk significantly. A bedside bassinet that attaches to your bed makes night feeds easier without bringing baby into the bed itself.

What to remove from the sleep space

The sleep space should be clear of pillows, bumpers, loose blankets, soft toys, or anything that could cover baby's face or trap heat. A fitted sheet on a firm mattress is all that is needed.

If you want to keep baby warm, a baby sleeping bag or swaddle is far safer than a loose blanket.

Temperature

Baby's room should be between 16 and 20°C. Overheating is a risk factor for SIDS. Check baby's temperature by feeling the back of their neck or their tummy, not their hands or feet which are normally cooler.

A note on head shape

Extended time on their backs can cause some babies to develop a slightly flat head (positional plagiocephaly). This is usually addressed with tummy time during awake periods, repositioning, and occasionally a specialist assessment. It is not a reason to change safe sleep positioning.