The expert advice from The Lullaby Trust is based on decades of scientific research into reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Together, we want to ensure every parent feels confident and informed when they lay their little one down to sleep.
Whether you’re preparing for your first arrival or you’re in the thick of the newborn days, here are six essential tips to help create a safer sleep space.
The golden rule for every sleep—day or night—is to place your baby on their back. This is the safest position for your baby and has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.
Top Tip: Your baby should always sleep in their own separate sleep space, such as a cot, Moses basket, or travel cot.
Soft bedding might look comfortable to us, but for a baby, it can be a hazard. Your baby’s mattress should be firm, flat, and protected by a waterproof cover. It should fit snugly within the cot with no gaps around the edges.
When it comes to your baby’s sleep space, simple is safest. It can be tempting to decorate the cot with cute accessories, but a clear cot is a safer cot.
Keep these items out of the cot:
These items can accidentally cover your baby’s face or cause them to overheat.
To prevent your baby from wriggling down under loose covers, stick to the essentials. Use a fitted sheet that stays securely on the mattress, paired with either a well-fitted sleeping bag to prevent loose layers.
When choosing a sleeping bag, always check the label. Sizes are usually based on weight, not age, to ensure the neck opening is the correct size.
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, and overheating is a known risk factor for SIDS. The ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 16–20°C.
Always adjust the TOG of your baby’s swaddle or sleeping bag to suit the temperature of the room, and remember—if the room is too warm, you should adjust their layers.
The safest place for your baby to sleep is in the same room as you for the first six months, both day and night. This doesn't mean you can't pop out to make a cup of tea, but they are safest when you are nearby.
Using a travel cot is a brilliant way to keep your baby close by for daytime naps in the living room or kitchen.
Have more questions? Visit our Sleep Suit and Bag FAQs or get in touch via our Help Centre.
At Love to Dream, we believe that todays little dreamers are the shapers of tomorrow. That’s why we’re honoured to support The Lullaby Trust in its life-saving work.
“By working together, we’re able to support parents with essential resources, and empower thousands of families with guidance that could save lives.” -The Lullaby Trust
We’re proud that our sleepwear is helping families feel safer and more confident, giving everyone in the family the quality sleep they deserve.
