safe sleep for babies
based on Red Nose Australia evidence-based guidelines for safe sleeping. this is general information — talk to your child health nurse if you have concerns.
sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and fatal sleeping accidents have decreased by over 80% since safe sleep campaigns began. these six simple steps can significantly reduce the risk.
the 6 safe sleep recommendations
sleep baby on their back
always place baby on their back for every sleep, from birth. side sleeping is not safe. once baby can roll both ways on their own, you don't need to reposition them.
keep head and face uncovered
no pillows, doonas, bumpers, or loose bedding in the cot. use a safe baby sleeping bag instead of blankets. if using a blanket, tuck it in firmly below baby's armpits.
keep baby smoke-free
no smoking during pregnancy or around baby after birth. second-hand and third-hand smoke significantly increase SIDS risk. this includes vaping.
safe sleeping environment
firm, flat, clean mattress that fits snugly in the cot. cot should meet Australian Standard AS/NZS 2172. no toys, pillows, bumpers, or sleep positioners.
sleep baby in their own space, in your room
baby's safest place is in their own cot or bassinet in the same room as you for the first 6–12 months. room-sharing (not bed-sharing) reduces SIDS risk.
breastfeed if you can
breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of SIDS. any amount of breastfeeding is protective — even partial breastfeeding helps.
what NOT to put in the cot
- •pillows and cushions
- •doonas, duvets, and quilts
- •cot bumpers and padding
- •soft toys and comforters (until 12 months)
- •sleep positioners and wedges
- •sheepskins and lambswool
- •loose blankets (use a sleeping bag instead)
- •hats — baby can overheat
swaddling
- •swaddling can help some newborns settle — use a light muslin wrap
- •wrap from the shoulders down — never cover baby's face or head
- •don't wrap too tight around the hips (risk of hip dysplasia)
- •stop swaddling as soon as baby shows signs of rolling (usually 4–6 months)
- •transition to a sleeping bag when you stop swaddling
- •always place a swaddled baby on their back
room temperature
- •aim for 20–22°C in the room
- •overheating increases SIDS risk — dress baby in one layer more than you'd wear
- •feel baby's chest or back to check temperature — hands and feet can feel cool and that's normal
- •use a TOG-rated sleeping bag appropriate for the room temperature
- •no hats indoors for sleeping
related guides
this guide is based on Red Nose Australia's evidence-based safe sleeping guidelines. for more information visit rednose.org.au or call Red Nose on 1300 998 698.