Safer Sleep Tips for Babies: Expert Advice from The Lullaby Trust

Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most important things you can do for your baby. Following this advice for every sleep helps reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS, previously known as cot death). Since 1991, the guidance from The Lullaby Trust has helped save over 31,951 babies’ lives. Here’s what every parent and caregiver needs to know.

The Safest Place for your Baby to Sleep

The safest place for a baby to sleep is:

Room sharing (not bed sharing) keeps your baby close while providing a protected sleep space. A cot, crib, or Moses basket placed beside your bed is ideal for the first months.


 Always Place Baby on Their Back

One of the most important Safer Sleep Tips for Babies:

👉 Always put your baby on their back to sleep, for every sleep day and night.

Putting a baby to sleep on their front or side greatly increases the risk of SIDS. The back sleeping position is the safest and should be used unless your doctor has advised otherwise for medical reasons.

Once placed on their back, babies should continue to be put down this way consistently.

3.      Keep the Cot Clear

A clear cot is a safer cot.

Your baby’s sleep space should contain only two essential items:

Remove:

  • Pillows
  • Duvets
  • Cot bumpers
  • Soft toys
  • Loose blankets

Babies do not need extra comfort items in their cot. A simple setup is the safest setup.

 

Avoid Overheating

Overheating increases the risk of SIDS. To keep your baby comfortable and safe:

  • Maintain room temperature between 16–20°C
  • Use a room thermometer
  • Dress your baby appropriately for the season
  • Check for signs of overheating (sweating, hot chest, flushed cheeks)

Every baby is different. If they feel too warm, adjust clothing or bedding as needed.

 


Room Share for the First Six Months

It’s strongly recommended that babies sleep in the same room as you for at least the first six months. This is called room sharing.

Room sharing:

  • Makes monitoring easier
  • Supports safer sleep practices
  • Reduces the risk of SIDS

As your baby grows, their needs will change  but in those early months, staying close at night makes a significant difference.

 

For More Help & Advice 🤍

For trusted guidance and further support, visit The Lullaby Trust website to learn more about safer sleep practices and how to protect your baby every night.

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