Safe Sleep for Babies: What You Need to Know

October is Safe Sleep and SIDS Awareness Month in the US. As a sleep consultant, safe sleep is always a topic close to my heart. This month provides a special opportunity to raise awareness and support families in creating safe, nurturing sleep environments for their little ones. While this is a serious subject, safe sleep guidance doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With a few simple steps, you can reduce risks and feel confident that your baby is sleeping as safely as possible.

In the UK, the Lullaby Trust provides evidence-based advice that saves lives. Here are their key recommendations explained:

1. Always Place Baby on Their Back to Sleep

The safest sleep position for babies is on their back, both for naps and overnight. This one step has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS significantly. Once your baby can roll independently, it’s safe for them to find their own position, but always place them down on their back to start with.

2. Share a Room for the First 6 Months

For at least the first six months, ideally your baby should sleep in the same room as you, day and night. This makes it easier to respond to their needs and has been shown to cut the risk of SIDS by up to 50%. Whether in a crib, bassinet, or bedside cot, keeping your baby close by is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support safe sleep.

3. Co-Sleeping Safely

Some families choose to share a bed with their baby. This is a personal decision, and it’s always safer to plan for co-sleeping rather than end up doing it out of exhaustion.

If you decide to co-sleep, keep in mind:

• Use a firm mattress and never fall asleep with baby on a sofa or armchair.

• Keep pillows, duvets, and loose bedding well away.

• Make sure baby cannot fall out of bed or become trapped in gaps.

• Never co-sleep if you’ve smoked, consumed alcohol, taken drugs, or medication that makes you drowsy.

Planning ahead helps keep your baby safer while respecting your family’s choices.

4. Cot Sleep Space Setup

If your baby sleeps in a crib, cot, or bassinet, keep the sleep space clear: no pillows, toys, bumpers, or loose blankets. A firm, flat mattress with a well-fitting sheet is best.

Swaddling can be used safely with young babies, but always stop once your baby learns to roll. Sleep sacks or swaddle bags with tog ratings can also be a great way to keep your baby comfortable without the risk of overheating.

5. Temperature and Comfort

Babies sleep best in a room that is around 16–20°C (60–68°F). Use a room thermometer if possible, and dress your baby according to the temperature. Tog-rated sleep bags or swaddling bags are helpful, as they provide guidance on dressing safely.

On warmer days, you may want to offer a slightly cooler bath before bedtime and reduce layers. Overheating is a risk factor for SIDS, so always check your baby’s chest or back (not hands or feet) to see if they’re too warm.

6. Sleep During Travel or in Baby Equipment

Sometimes babies fall asleep in car seats, swings, or bouncers. While this is normal, these aren’t designed for prolonged sleep, especially for newborns with weaker neck muscles. Try to move your baby to a flat surface when you can.

If travelling in the car, always secure your baby properly and keep a close eye on them — either by using a mirror for the driver or having an adult sit in the back seat. For swings or bouncers, only use them for short periods and under supervision.

7. Smoke-Free Environment

Exposure to smoke during pregnancy and after birth increases the risk of SIDS. Keeping your baby in a smoke-free environment — including your home, car, and around visitors — is one of the most powerful protective steps you can take.

Final Thoughts

Safe sleep guidance is there to protect babies and save lives. Following the core recommendations—back to sleep, sharing your room for 6 months, keeping sleep spaces clear, and monitoring temperature—makes a real difference.

Parenting life isn’t always predictable, and situations like pram naps or car journeys will happen. Whenever possible, apply safe sleep principles to those moments too, so your baby rests as safely as possible.

For further information and resources, visit The Lullaby Trust.