Safe sleep for babies: what every parent needs to know

One of the most important responsibilities we have as new parents is ensuring that our babies sleep safely. In those early, sleep-deprived weeks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice, flashy product claims, and well-meaning but outdated tips from family or friends.

At Life.Postpartum, we align our guidance with evidence-based recommendations from trusted organisations like The Lullaby Trust, to help you create a safe, calming, and practical sleep space for your baby—without the confusion.

Here’s what you need to know about safe sleep, why it matters, and how to implement it in your everyday routine.

Why safe sleep matters

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—also known as cot death—is the sudden, unexplained death of a baby during sleep. While SIDS is rare, it is deeply distressing and can often be reduced or prevented by following safe sleep guidelines.

Your baby’s sleep setup plays a huge role in their safety. From sleep position to what goes in the cot (hint: not much!) These choices matter.

1. Optimal sleep position 

The safest position for your baby to sleep is on their back, for every sleep—day or night. This significantly lowers the risk of SIDS compared to placing your baby on their side or stomach. Even if your baby seems to prefer another position or rolls onto their front during sleep (once they can roll independently), always start sleep on the back—unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

2. Set up a safe sleep environment

Creating a safe sleep space means removing anything that could pose a suffocation or overheating risk. Here’s what that looks like:

•  Keep the Cot Clear – No pillows, duvets, stuffed animals, cot bumpers, or loose blankets. These soft items can increase the risk of overheating or accidental smothering. A clutter-free cot is the safest cot.
• Use a Firm, Flat Mattress – Choose a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that fits snugly inside the cot or Moses basket. Avoid soft surfaces like beanbags, sleep positioners, or inclined sleepers—even if they’re marketed as “soothing.” These increase the risk of airway obstruction.
• Monitor Room Temperature – Your baby’s room should be kept at a temperature between 16°C and 20°C (60–68°F). A cooler room is safer than one that’s too warm. Signs of overheating include sweating, flushed cheeks, or feeling hot to the touch.

3. Dress for sleep: keep It light, simple, and safe

How your baby is dressed for sleep can make a big difference in keeping them comfortable and safe.

• Sleeping Bags – Well-fitting baby sleeping bags are a safer alternative to loose blankets. Choose a tog rating that matches the room temperature and select a size appropriate for your baby’s weight and age. Avoid layering blankets over the top. (Note: Life Postpartum is exploring brand partnerships with trusted sleeping bag companies—more to come!)
• Swaddling Safely – If you choose to swaddle, use a lightweight material such as a thin muslin or cotton sheet. Make sure it’s snug around the arms but loose around the hips to allow for healthy hip development. Never place additional bedding over a swaddled baby.
• Avoid Weighted Products – Weighted blankets, swaddles, and sleeping bags are not safe for babies under one year. These can increase the risk of suffocation and overheating and are not recommended by The Lullaby Trust.

4. Room sharing vs. bed sharing: understanding the safest choices

Room Sharing – For the first six months, the safest place for your baby to sleep is in the same room as you, but in their own sleep space—such as a cot or Moses basket. This helps protect against SIDS while making nighttime feeds and check-ins easier.

Bed Sharing If you choose to bed-share, follow these essential precautions: 

• Use a firm, flat mattress
• Keep pillows, duvets, and loose bedding away from the baby

• Never allow pets or other children in the bed
• Do not bed-share if you’ve consumed alcohol, taken drugs, or are extremely tired
• Never co-sleep on a sofa or armchair, as this dramatically increases the risk of SIDS
  

Remember: bed-sharing is a deeply personal decision. At Life Postpartum, we support informed, safe choices based on your family’s needs.

5. Look beyond the marketing

There’s no shortage of products promising better, longer, safer sleep. But unfortunately, many of these aren’t backed by science—and some can even be dangerous.

Avoid items that claim to reduce SIDS risk, such as:

• Sleep positioners or wedges
• Sleep pods/nests with soft, padded edges
• Unregulated swaddles or hammocks

Always consult evidence-based resources like The Lullaby Trust, and speak to a healthcare professional before introducing new sleep products.

6. Special sleep needs: premature and low birth weight babies

If your baby was born prematurely or has a low birth weight, safe sleep guidelines are even more critical:

• Always follow back-sleeping guidance
• Use only sleeping bags that fit your baby’s weight and are not used before they reach 4kg (8.8lbs)
• Speak to your healthcare team about additional precautions if needed

These babies may be more vulnerable, so extra attention to temperature regulation and sleep positioning can make a big difference.

Navigating safe sleep can feel daunting, especially when you’re exhausted and being pulled in many directions. But know this: you’re doing an incredible job. Each small step you take—like placing your baby on their back or keeping their cot clear—is part of creating a nurturing, safe start to life.

At Life.Postpartum, we’re here to guide, support, and walk alongside you as you find your rhythm. Whether you’re swaddling your newborn at 2 a.m. or second-guessing every sleep product on the market, remember: safe sleep is simple, and you are never alone.

This content is reviewed and approved by our sleep consultant Fiona Hayward.