Sleep Essentials: Your Guide To Safe Sleep For Babies
Getting familiar with the essentials of safe sleep for babies is crucial for new parents. As your little one spends most of their time sleeping in their first year, it's important to ensure they’re getting the safest and most comfortable rest possible.
Getting familiar with the essentials of safe sleep for babies is crucial for new parents. As your little one spends most of their time sleeping in their first year, it's important to ensure they’re getting the safest and most comfortable rest possible.
From correctly setting up their bed to preparing their nursery, there are many elements that come into play when creating a safe and cosy sleep environment for your baby.
And as a new parent, making sure you’re familiar with all of these important factors is key to keeping your baby safe during naptime.
We’ve compiled a guide to sleep essentials for babies, covering everything from safe sleeping positions to choosing the right bedding. By following these tips, you can rest easy knowing your baby is getting the best sleep possible.
So let’s dive in and learn how to create a safe and comfortable sleeping space for your little one.
Safe Baby Sleeping Positions
There are a few positions that you can put your baby in when putting them down for a nap or to sleep at night.
All of the sleeping positions outlined below are considered safe for infants and help them to get a restful night's sleep.
According to safe sleep experts, the best sleeping position for your baby is on their back in the 'feet-to-foot' position.
The feet-to-foot position is where your baby's feet are at the end of the Moses basket, crib, or cot. This might seem like there's a lot of wasted space in the crib, but this positioning prevents your little one from wriggling down the bed and ending up under the covers during the night.
Preventing them from moving under the covers can significantly reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) because they're not at risk of becoming trapped under a blanket.
The Feet to Foot Position
According to safe sleep experts, the best sleeping position for your baby is on their back in the 'feet-to-foot' position.
The feet-to-foot position is where your baby's feet are at the end of the Moses basket, crib, or cot. This might seem like there's a lot of wasted space in the crib, but this positioning prevents your little one from wriggling down the bed and ending up under the covers during the night.
Preventing them from moving under the covers can significantly reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) because they're not at risk of becoming trapped under a blanket.
Laying On Their Back
Placing your baby to sleep on their back is the most recommended position by paediatricians and health experts. This practice significantly reduces the risk of SIDS and ensures your baby can breathe freely without any obstruction.
This position helps maintain a clear airway and prevents your infant from rolling into potentially dangerous positions. For optimal safety, remember to use a firm mattress and keep the crib free of loose bedding or toys.
Swaddled to Reduce Movement
Swaddling your baby during nap time can help to safely restrict their movement, preventing them from wriggling around their crib and potentially getting caught up in their blankets.
If swaddling your baby, make sure the swaddle is not too tight and that the baby's hips are free to move, allowing for natural hip development. It's important to ensure that the baby's arms are securely wrapped but not restricted.
Stop swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling over, as this can help prevent any potential risks associated with rolling while they're swaddled. Always monitor your baby to ensure their comfort and safety.
Note: Babies should never be placed on their tummies to sleep when they can't roll over by themselves yet. Front or side sleeping is okay when your baby can move around and reposition themselves if necessary.
Is Co-Sleeping With Your Baby Safe?
Safe sleep experts and the NHS recommend that the safest place for your baby to sleep in the first 6 months is in a cot or crib in the same room as you so you can be on hand when your baby needs you. This applies to both daytime naps and nighttime periods of sleep.
Co-sleeping is a popular option for parents, but it does come with some significant risks, including an increased chance of SIDS.
This is especially prevalent in co-sleeping, which involves sharing a bed, and it should be avoided at all times. Thankfully, there are ways of co-sleeping that are safe for babies and parents.
A great way to do this is to invest in a bedside crib such as SnüzPod. Thanks to its removable bassinet feature, this crib keeps your baby close by night and day.
Note: Co-sleeping is different from sleeping with a crib or bassinet in the same room as you. Co-sleeping should be done safely with the use of a bedside crib that meets European safety standards.
How to Safely Co-Sleep Using the SnüzPod Bedside Crib
The SnüzPod4 bedside crib offers a convenient and safe solution for co-sleeping with your baby at night. Rather than having your little one sleep in your bed and risk hazardous situations, the SnüzPod allows them to sleep in their own space right next to you.
It’s the UK’s bestselling bedside crib, and for good reason. Not only does it provide a safe sleep environment for your baby, but its unique design also makes night-time feeds and comforting easier for parents.
Here are some tips to ensure you use the SnüzPod4 safely:
Set Up & Positioning
Place the SnüzPod4 securely next to your bed, ensuring it’s level and stable. The crib should be firmly attached to your bed frame to prevent any gaps where your baby could become trapped. The SnüzPod4 is designed to fit divans, ottoman, and framed beds.
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper installation and use. If you're unsure, contact our team by email or social media for help!
Correct Height Adjustment
Adjust the SnüzPod4 to match the height of the mattress on the adult bed. It can fit beds between 53cm and 73cm.
This alignment is crucial to ensure a smooth transition for your baby between the crib and your bed, making night-time feeds and comfort much easier while still keeping your baby in their own safe space.
Use the Zip-Down Wall
The SnüzPod4 features a zip-down side wall, which allows easy access to your baby during the night. The side wall is designed to be left down when your baby is asleep for convenient access.
The top of the zip-down wall should be in line with the parent's mattress to prevent your baby from rolling out.
Firm Mattress & Breathable Materials
The SnüzPod4 comes with a firm mattress designed to provide the necessary support for safe sleep. Our SnüzSurface mattress features a 3D breathable surface, anti-dust mite barrier, and firm support, as recommended by experts in safe sleep, to keep your baby safe and comfortable all night.
Use only the mattress provided or recommended by Snüz to ensure safe sleeping practices.
What is the Best Room Temperature for Babies?
Ensuring your baby isn't too hot or cold is crucial. The NHS advises that babies can overheat from too much bedding, sleepwear, or a hot room. Health professionals recommend keeping the room temperature between 16-20°C.
Parents should regularly check on their babies to ensure they aren't too hot or cold. You can monitor your baby’s temperature by gently placing a hand on the back of their neck. If it feels damp or warmer than usual, remove layers to cool them down.
When using a thermometer, place it under your baby’s armpit and hold their arm down gently but firmly for an accurate reading.
Cot placement is also important. Since babies can't regulate their temperature well, keep them away from radiators, heaters, and windows to avoid overheating and drafts. Make sure curtains or blind cords are secured and out of reach.
Read more: The Importance of a Breathable Sleep Space for Your Baby
How to Prepare a Safe Sleep Environment for 0-6 Month-Olds
Creating a safe sleep environment for your baby is crucial for minimising the risk of SIDS and ensuring quality rest.
Here are some sleep safety tips to prepare a safe sleep space for a 0-6 month-old baby:
| Sleep Space | Use a safety-approved cot, bassinet, or crib with a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly. |
| Sleep Area | Only use a fitted sheet in the cot. Avoid pillows, blankets, bumpers, and soft toys. For warmth, use a sleep sack or wearable blanket. |
| Room Temperature | Maintain a room temperature of 16-20°C. Dress your baby similarly to yourself for sleep, with one extra layer if needed. |
| Clothing Choices | Dress your baby in lightweight, breathable sleepwear. Avoid clothes with drawstrings or ties, and opt for onesies for easy nappy changes. |
| Cot Placement | For the first 6 months, place the cot in your bedroom. Position it away from windows, radiators, and direct sunlight. Ensure no dangling cords or drapes are nearby. |
| Monitoring | Regularly check on your baby to ensure they are not too hot or cold. Touch their neck to gauge temperature – it should feel warm, not sweaty or cold. Adjust layers as needed. |
Always adhere to the latest recommendations from health and safety authorities.
Final Thoughts: Making Sure You're Following Safe Sleep Practices
Following safe sleep practices is crucial to reduce the risk of SIDS and ensure your baby's well-being. Place your baby down to settle in the correct sleeping position, keep their bed space clear from loose bedding, and monitor their temperature regularly.
It's also important to stay updated on the latest recommendations from health and safety authorities, as these guidelines may change over time.
By following these guidelines, you can create a safe sleep environment for your baby and have peace of mind knowing they’re sleeping soundly.
Remember to always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns about safe sleep practices. Your baby's safety is our top priority, so let's work together to ensure they’re sleeping safely and soundly every night.
FAQs
Babies should not sleep on their sides or stomachs. These positions increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by obstructing their airway and making it easier for them to roll into dangerous positions. Always place babies on their backs to sleep.
Yes, it is okay. While placing your baby on their back to sleep, their head may naturally turn to one side. This is generally safe and can help prevent flat spots on the back of their head. Just ensure their sleeping environment remains free from suffocation hazards and reposition them if they're side-sleeping.
If a baby rolls onto their stomach while sleeping, gently return them to their back. It's important to stop swaddling when they begin to show signs of rolling so they can reposition themselves if necessary.
You can begin to worry less about SIDS after your baby turns one year old. The highest risk period for SIDS is during the first six months, and the risk continues to decline significantly after 12 months. Always follow safe sleep guidelines to minimise risks.
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