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How to help your baby sleep safely

We don’t know exactly why some babies die suddenly in their sleep (called cot death), but you can make sleep safer by doing these things:

• Always put your baby on their back to sleep, with their feet near the end of the cot.
  
  
• Use a separate cot or Moses basket in your room for the first 6 months, even during the day.
  
  
• Don’t smoke during pregnancy or after your baby is born. You can get help at www.smokefree.nhs.uk.
  
  
• Use a firm, flat mattress or a baby sleep bag that fits your baby’s size.
  
  
• Never sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair.
  
  
• Don’t cover your baby’s face or head and avoid loose blankets.
  
  
• Don’t share a bed with your baby if you smoke, drink, take drugs, or if your baby was born early or very small.
  
  
• Make sure your baby doesn’t get too hot.

Follow these tips every time your baby sleeps, not just at night.

Learn more about safer sleep for babies from The Lullaby Trust.

What is co-sleeping?

Co-sleeping means sleeping close to your baby, like in the same bed or on a sofa. This can be dangerous, especially if:

• You smoke
• You’ve had alcohol or drugs
• Your baby was born early or very small
• You sleep on a sofa or armchair with your baby

Learn more about co-sleeping.

Using slings and baby carriers safely

Slings and carriers help you carry your baby hands-free, but they must be used safely. Follow the TICKS rules:

• Tight
• In view at all times
• Close enough to kiss
• Keep chin off chest
• Supported back

This helps your baby breathe easily and stay cool.

Learn more from about safe sling use.

Baby sleep products

Some baby products sold online can be dangerous, even if they look safe. Watch out for things like:

• Hug pillows
• Sleeping bags not made for babies
• Self-feeding pillows

Find out more from The Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT).

Need help or advice?

If you’re a parent or carer and have questions, talk to your midwife or health visitor. They can help with sleep safety, quitting smoking, and more.

You can also call 0808 802 6869 for advice and support.

For professionals: SUDI practice tool

A new SUDI Practice Tool helps professionals talk with families about safe sleep. It’s based on advice from The Lullaby Trust and helps guide non-judgemental conversations.

The SUDI Practice Tool and a video explaining SUDI are both available on the Child Death Reviews (CDR) webpage.

Helpful resources and apps

• Safer sleep for babies: Video from The Lullaby Trust
• Caring for your baby at night: Unicef publication - tips for night feeding, safe sleep, and helping your baby settle.
• Johnsons Baby Bedtime Baby Sleep App: Track sleep and get advice.
• Baby Buddy: Support for your baby’s first six months.
• My Baby Today: Daily tips for your baby’s first year.