Safe sleeping for your baby

A few simple precautions will help ensure that your little one stays safe and sound while sleeping.

According to the NHS, the safest option is for your baby to sleep in their cot in your room for the first 6 months.

Wherever your baby is sleeping, however, the following safety advice applies:

Make sure your baby's cot is out of reach of any cords on curtains, blinds or lights
If your baby is under 1 year old, don’t use a duvet, quilt or pillows in the cot, as they pose a risk of suffocation
The safest sleeping position for babies is on their backs, with their feet at the foot of the cot. (Once your baby learns to roll over, though, they may turn on to their side or tummy while sleeping; this isn’t a risk, so don’t worry!)

The best temperature for your baby’s room is about 18°C. (You can monitor this easily with a room thermometer)
For safety’s sake, don’t put your baby’s cot next to a radiator or heater, or in direct sunlight
Make sure that your baby doesn't get too hot or too cold at night; if their forehead or tummy feel sweaty, it’s best to remove a layer of bedding.
It’s tempting to tuck your little one in, but using too many blankets or covers can lead to over-heating, which can be dangerous. Instead, it’s best to use light blankets and clothing instead, or you could try using a sleep sack (pictured above).