Safe sleep means sleep practices that lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and sleep-related accidents. The core rules are to place the baby on their back for every sleep, on a firm, flat surface, with nothing else in the cot, in the parents' room.
The key safe sleep rules
Based on the American Academy of Pediatrics' guidance:
- Back for every sleep, including naps
- A firm, flat, level mattress with a fitted sheet
- No pillows, blankets, bumpers or soft toys in the cot
- Room-sharing, ideally for at least the first 6 months
- No sleeping with a baby on a sofa or armchair
- No smoking during pregnancy or around the baby
- Avoid overheating and do not cover the baby's head
- Do not use inclined sleepers or weighted sleep sacks
Frequently asked questions
Only while travelling; once you arrive, move your baby to a flat sleep space.
Light layers or a wearable blanket, without a hat indoors.