😴 Sleep · 0 – 12 months

😴 Safe sleep for baby (SIDS prevention)

Reduce sleep-related risks with a firm, flat, clear infant sleep space, back sleeping and avoidance of overheating.

Gear to get ready

1 cot or cot that meets safety standards.
1 firm mattress that fits the cot snugly with zero gaps.
1 baby sleeping bag (sleep sack) suited to baby's size and the season (check the TOG rating).

1. Every sleep
Place baby on their back on a firm, flat, approved infant sleep surface, with no pillows, wedges, bumpers, loose soft items or weighted sleep products. Share a room, not a sleep surface, at least for the first six months.
2. Dress for comfort
Keep head and face uncovered. Use well-fitting sleepwear; a non-weighted well-fitting sleep sack is optional. Follow its manufacturer’s temperature guidance rather than treating a TOG table as medical law. Check the chest/back for overheating; no single 18–19°C range guarantees safety.
3. Stay safe
Never sleep with baby on a sofa or armchair or while holding them. Never shake baby. If overwhelmed, place them safely in their cot/cot and ask for support. Emergency: 000.

A local detail, or your own experience with this guide? Write to the team