Young babies need a lot of sleep during the first few months of their life. This page brings together information and support to help you to follow safe sleep advice for babies. Whether you're just starting out or need a refresher, everything you need is in one place.

Why it's important to follow safer sleep advice

Following safer sleep advice is important for all babies, but it’s especially important for babies who were born prematurely (before 37 weeks) or who weighed less than 5.5 pounds (2.5kg) at birth.

How to help your baby sleep safely

Do

  • SAFE SLEEP PHOTO EDITS-19.jpgPlace your baby on their back to sleep. Since 'back to sleep' guidance started in 1991, the rate of sudden unexplained deaths in infants in England and Wales has reduced by  80% (Lullaby Trust)
  • Place your baby at the bottom of their cot, in the ‘feet to foot’ position with their arms free to flap
  • Tuck in blankets securely under the mattress
  • Place your baby in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you, day and night, for the first 6 months
  • Use a firm, flat, clean, waterproof mattress
  • Keep the room between 16 to 20°C, you can use a thermometer to check the temperature

Don't

  • Photo of baby and dad asleepDo not place your baby to sleep on their front or side
  • Do not use duvets, pillows, cot bumpers, pod/nests, soft toys or teddies where your baby is sleeping- the use of these items can be dangerous
  • Do not incline or tilt your baby’s cot, mattress or any other sleep surface.
  • Do not sleep on a sofa or in an armchair with your baby
  • Do not smoke during pregnancy or let anyone smoke in the same room as your baby, both before and after birth
  • Do not sleep in the same bed as your baby if you have drunk any alcohol or taken drugs or medication
How to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome

Becoming a parent and caring for a newborn is a special and rewarding experience. It can also be a challenging time, especially when you're tired and your baby is waking frequently throughout the night. It's normal for your baby to feed during the night. Although it might be overwhelming, it can be a peaceful time to bond with your baby.

The safest place for your new baby to sleep is in their own sleep space, in the same room as you. Always place your baby on their back on a flat, firm surface, in a clear cot or sleep space. This will help to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Keep baby in the same room as you for at least the first 6 months. If you are thinking about sharing a bed with your baby it is important that you read information on how to co-sleep in the safest way.  

Co-sleeping with your baby

Some parents choose to share a bed with their baby to help feed, comfort and encourage a close bond. This is also known as co-sleeping. If you are thinking of sharing a bed we recommended you read all the information to help you make a decision that is best for you and your baby.

Remember, never sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair. This is not a safe sleep space for you and your baby.

Bed-sharing when drinking alcohol, smoking, or when the infant was a low birth weight or premature is particularly unsafe.

How to make co-sleeping in your bed safer

  • Babies should sleep in a clear space, free from pillows and adult bedding
  • Your mattress should be firm and flat
  • Use a baby sleeping bag
  • Place your baby on their back, the same as you would in a cot or Moses basket
  • Do not let pets or other children sleep in the same bed
  • Make sure your partner knows your baby is in the bed
  • Ensure your baby will not fall out of the bed or get trapped between the mattress and a wall
  • Do not leave your baby alone in an adult bed
How to co-sleep more safely

When not to co-sleep

  • Never sleep on a sofa or armchair with your baby, If you think you may fall asleep, place your baby in its own separate cot or Moses basket to sleep
  • If either you or your partner smokes
  • If either you or your partner has drunk alcohol or taken drugs
  • If either you or your partner has taken prescribed medication that may make you feel drowsy
  • You are extremely tired
  • Your baby was premature (born at 37 weeks or earlier)
  • Your baby had a low birth weight (5.5 pounds or less)

Co-sleeping and breastfeeding

Breastfeeding reduces the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) occurring. It's common to feel like falling asleep whilst breastfeeding. If this is the case, you should prepare your bed according to the guidance on co-sleeping. Never fall asleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair. There are lots of products available to buy which claim to help your baby sleep. But, you do not need to buy lots of expensive items to ensure your baby is sleeping safely.