Getting sleep right in the early months is one of the most important ways to keep your baby safe. Guidance from the NHS, CDC, and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) agrees on a clear set of basics.
Always place baby on their back
Put your baby on their back for every sleep — night-time and naps — until they are about 1 year old. The back position is the safest for reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Once babies can roll both ways on their own, you do not need to keep turning them back, but you should still start every sleep on the back.
Use a firm, flat sleep surface
A safety-approved cot, crib, or Moses basket with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet is ideal. Keep soft bedding out of the sleep space: no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, loose blankets, soft toys, pods, or nests that could cover the face.
Room-share for at least 6 months
The safest place for your baby to sleep for the first 6 months is in a cot or Moses basket in the same room as you — not on a sofa or armchair. Falling asleep with a baby on a sofa or chair greatly increases the risk of SIDS.
Keep baby comfortable, not overheated
Aim for a room temperature of about 16–20°C. Do not cover your baby's head while they sleep. Signs of overheating include sweating or a hot chest.
Other helpful habits
- Breastfeed if you can — breastmilk helps protect against infections.
- Keep smoke away from pregnancy and from your baby's environment.
- Offer a pacifier at sleep time once breastfeeding is well established, if you choose to use one.
- Keep routine vaccinations up to date.
Based on advice from NHS Safer Sleep, CDC Safe Sleep, and AAP recommendations. Always follow guidance from your midwife, health visitor, or pediatrician.
