Safe Sleep for Babies
A Comprehensive Guide for New Parents
Introduction: Why Safe Sleep Matters
If you're a new parent or deep in the trenches of the baby phase, you’ve probably heard a lot about “safe sleep.” Maybe you’ve already been told to always place your baby on their back or to avoid soft toys in the cot, but you’re still left wondering why it all matters so much, and what the safest setup actually looks like.
This blog is here to walk you through it, without the overwhelm. Whether you're setting up your first nursery, navigating the newborn stage, or starting to think about how to transition your baby’s sleep space, it's important to understand the why behind safe sleep guidelines—because they're more than just rules. They're backed by years of research and have been shown to reduce the risk of devastating outcomes like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI).
The good news is: safe sleep doesn’t need to be complicated. By following a few key practices, you can create a sleep space that supports your baby’s wellbeing, protects their breathing, and gives you peace of mind.
Throughout this blog, we’ll cover:
What SIDS and SUDI actually are (and how they differ)
The latest recommendations from trusted organisations like Red Nose Australia, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
How to set up a safe sleep environment—step by step
When and how to introduce things like sleep sacks, swaddles, loveys or comfort items
What the research says about room-sharing, co-sleeping, and using a fan in the room
And practical tips to make your baby’s sleep as safe—and as settled—as possible
Every baby is different, and every family has their own sleep journey. My hope is that this guide gives you the knowledge to make safe, confident choices that work for your little one and for you.
Ready to dive in? Let’s start with what these sleep-related terms actually mean, and why they’ve become such an important focus for baby health and safety.
Understanding SUDI and SIDS
Before we get into the nitty gritty of safe sleep, it’s important to understand the terms you’ll often hear—especially SIDS and SUDI. These are not just scary acronyms; they’re the reason safe sleep guidelines exist in the first place. When we know what we’re protecting against, it all starts to make a bit more sense.
What is SUDI?
SUDI stands for Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy. It’s a broad term that includes any sudden and unexpected death of a baby under 12 months of age, where the cause isn't immediately obvious. This includes:
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)
Fatal sleep accidents (like suffocation or entrapment)
Some cases where a medical condition is found later
In Australia, SUDI is the term most health professionals and researchers use when talking about unexplained or preventable deaths in infants. It helps to recognise that not all of these deaths are truly “mysterious”—some are due to unsafe sleep environments or accidental asphyxiation. This is where safe sleep practices become so powerful. According to Red Nose Australia, most of these deaths are preventable.
And what is SIDS then?
SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, is actually a type of SUDI. It’s used when a seemingly healthy baby dies suddenly and no cause can be found, even after a thorough investigation. These cases remain unexplained—but over the years, research has uncovered several risk factors that can increase a baby's vulnerability.
Thanks to decades of research (and the amazing work of organisations like Red Nose, the AAP and others), we now know that how a baby sleeps, where they sleep, and what’s around them can all impact their safety. And the incredible part? Since introducing public education campaigns like Red Nose Day (originally SIDS and Kids), the rate of sudden infant deaths in Australia has dropped by more than 80%.
Why this matters to you
This isn’t about scaring you—it’s about empowering you. SIDS and SUDI are rare, but they are real. And there are things you can do to help reduce the risk. Even simple changes, like keeping your baby’s sleep space clear and placing them on their back, make a meaningful difference.
By understanding the risks and following up-to-date recommendations, you're not only protecting your baby—you're giving yourself one less thing to worry about in those hazy, sleep-deprived nights.
Next up, we’ll break down exactly what those global safe sleep recommendations are and why they’ve become the gold standard for infant sleep safety.
Global Safe Sleep Guidelines: What the Experts Recommend
Now that we understand what SIDS and SUDI are, let’s look at what the world’s leading health organisations say about keeping babies safe during sleep. These guidelines come from decades of research and real-world evidence—and they’re regularly reviewed to reflect the most up-to-date understanding of infant safety. The great news? You don’t need fancy tech or expensive sleep products. Just practical, simple steps that can reduce the risk significantly.
🌏 Who are the experts?
The following safe sleep recommendations are supported by:
Red Nose Australia – the leading authority on safe sleep and SUDI prevention in Australia.
The World Health Organization (WHO) – which offers international guidance on newborn and child health.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – a key source of infant safety research and evidence-based practice.
Each of these groups may present information slightly differently to suit their country’s needs, but they all agree on the foundations of safe infant sleep. Let’s break them down one by one—with explanations on why each one matters.
1. Always place baby on their back to sleep
This one’s considered the gold standard of safe sleep, and it’s the very first thing every new parent should know.
Why: Babies are safest sleeping on their back because it keeps their airway open and their face clear. This position has been consistently shown to reduce the risk of SIDS. When a baby is placed on their tummy or side—especially before they can roll independently—they’re more likely to rebreathe their own exhaled air or accidentally bury their face in the mattress.
You might hear some outdated advice suggesting that side sleeping helps with reflux, but research shows that healthy babies (even those with reflux) are still safest on their back. In fact, back sleeping reduces the risk of choking because of how a baby’s airway is positioned.
Good to know: If your baby rolls onto their tummy on their own during sleep, it’s okay to leave them in that position—as long as you always place them on their back to start with, and their sleep space is otherwise safe (firm, flat, and clear).
2. Use a firm, flat mattress with no incline
Why: Babies need a safe, supportive surface to sleep on—always. A firm, flat mattress keeps their head and neck in the right position to breathe freely and reduces the risk of their chin tucking onto their chest, which can block their airway.
That means no inclined or soft sleep surfaces. This includes loungers, bouncers, swings, and even some bassinets with a built-in tilt. These products might seem handy for getting baby to nod off during the day, but they are not safe for sleep, even when you’re in the same room. Tragically, there are real cases of babies who stopped breathing while sleeping in these types of products—even with a parent right there. One family I know had to perform CPR after their baby stopped breathing in a lounger during supervised rest. It’s incredibly frightening, and a reminder that sleep safety is about more than supervision—it’s about environment.
2.1 What about car capsules?
Capsules are only designed for short periods of time—the general recommendation is no more than 1 hour at a time, followed by a break. This is because extended periods in the curved capsule position can compress a baby’s airway or reduce oxygen levels, particularly in younger infants.
If your baby falls asleep in the car (which they often do!), that’s okay—it’s expected. But once you arrive, aim to:
Take baby out of the capsule for a break (even just 5 minutes)
Transfer them to a firm, flat sleep surface if they’ll continue sleeping
Very important: Capsules should only be used for sleep while attached to a car base or pram base. Letting baby sleep in the capsule while it’s placed directly on the floor, a couch, or bed is not safe. The angle and position of the capsule changes when not clicked into its base—and this increases the risk of positional asphyxia.
So what is safe? Stick to sleep spaces that meet these three essential criteria:
Firm (not soft or padded)
Flat (no incline or tilt)
Uncluttered (no soft toys, pillows, or loose bedding)
Cots, bassinets, and sidecar sleepers that meet Australian safety standards are your safest bet. Look for:
AS/NZS 2172 for cots
AS/NZS 8811.1 for mattresses
Your baby deserves the safest possible start, and setting up a proper sleep surface is a key part of that.
3. Keep the sleep space clear
This means no pillows, soft toys, bumpers, quilts, doonas, or sheepskins in the sleep area.
Why: These items can accidentally cover your baby’s face and block their breathing. Even if they seem small or well-placed, babies can wriggle into dangerous positions surprisingly quickly. Having a clear cot also reduces the risk of overheating—another key factor linked to SIDS.
Red Nose recommends using just a fitted sheet and appropriate layers of clothing or a safe sleep sack for warmth. Keep it simple and safe.
Not sure what’s safe to include? A good rule of thumb is: if it’s soft, loose, or decorative, it doesn’t belong in your baby’s sleep space until they’re at least 12 months old.
4. Sleep baby in your room for the first 6–12 months
Why: Sharing a room with your baby—while having them sleep in their own safe sleep space, like a cot or bassinet—is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of SIDS. In fact, research from organisations like Red Nose, the AAP, and WHO all agree that room-sharing for at least the first 6 months (and ideally up to 12 months) can halve the risk of SIDS.
But why is it so protective?
Room-sharing allows you to respond quickly to your baby’s needs during the night. Whether it's a feed, a nappy change, or simply some comfort, being close helps you notice subtle changes in your baby’s behaviour or breathing pattern—which is especially helpful in those early months when everything is still so new.
And here’s something really amazing: studies have shown that babies who sleep in the same room as their parent (especially mum) can actually sync their breathing with the adult’s during sleep. This natural “breathing rhythm” can help regulate your baby’s own breathing patterns and make their sleep more stable. It’s a beautiful example of how connected we are to our babies, even in sleep.
Room-sharing also supports:
More successful and sustained breastfeeding (which also reduces SIDS risk)
Easier night-time settling and soothing
Peace of mind for you, knowing your baby is close
But remember: Room-sharing means same room, separate sleep surface. Your baby should sleep in their own cot, bassinet, or sidecar sleeper that meets safety standards. Bed-sharing or co-sleeping has different risks, which we’ll explore in more detail later in this blog (and in a separate blog on the Safe Sleep Seven and when co-sleeping may be considered).
Even if your sleep setup isn’t perfect from day one, making a few small changes—like moving a cot into your room—can have a big impact on your baby’s safety.
5. Keep your baby’s head and face uncovered during sleep
Why: Babies regulate their body temperature through their head and face, and covering either can increase the risk of overheating or accidental suffocation. That’s why the safest option is always to keep the cot completely clear of pillows, soft toys, and loose blankets.
But if you feel like your baby does need a blanket—for warmth or comfort—there’s a way to do it safely:
Use a lightweight cotton or muslin blanket only.
Place baby with their feet at the bottom of the cot—this is known as the “feet-to-foot” position.
Tuck the blanket securely under the mattress on all three sides (bottom and both sides), so it can’t ride up over baby’s face.
The blanket should come no higher than baby’s chest or armpits.
This method helps stop baby from wriggling down underneath the blanket or pulling it up over their face while they sleep. But in general, many parents find it simpler and safer to use a sleep sack or sleeping bag (we’ll talk more about those later!) instead of blankets altogether.
6. Make your home smoke-free
Why: Exposure to smoke—during pregnancy and after birth—is one of the most well-established risk factors for SIDS. It affects how a baby’s brain and lungs develop, especially the areas that control breathing and arousal during sleep.
This includes:
Smoking during pregnancy
Second-hand smoke (when someone else smokes around the baby)
Third-hand smoke (the residue that clings to clothes, hair, furniture, and skin)
Even if no one smokes around the baby, particles from smoke can stay on clothing or in the home and still be harmful.
Creating a completely smoke-free environment includes:
No smoking inside the house or car at any time (even when baby isn’t present)
Avoiding smoking near baby’s sleep area, clothing, or bedding
Asking friends and family to wash their hands and change their outer clothing if they’ve been smoking before holding your baby
We know this can be a sensitive topic, and no judgement here—just solid, evidence-based advice to help give your little one the safest start.
7. Offer a dummy at sleep times, if you choose
Why: There’s good evidence to suggest that offering a dummy (or pacifier) for naps and night sleep can reduce the risk of SIDS. While we don’t know exactly why it works, researchers think it might help keep the airway open and encourage safer sleep positioning.
It’s safe to offer a dummy:
Once breastfeeding is well established (usually around 3–4 weeks)
At both nap and bedtime
Without forcing it—if your baby doesn’t want it, that’s okay!
If the dummy falls out while baby sleeps, there’s no need to put it back in. And you don’t need to reinsert it during night wakings unless you want to.
8. Breastfeeding is protective, if it’s possible for you
Why: Babies who are breastfed have a significantly lower risk of SIDS. Breastfeeding—especially when it’s exclusive for the first six months—has been shown to support healthy immune development, promote more stable sleep patterns, and help babies rouse more easily from deep sleep (which is protective against SIDS).
Breastmilk is full of antibodies and enzymes that reduce the risk of infections (like respiratory or gastrointestinal illness), which are also linked to increased SUDI risk. Plus, the physical closeness and responsiveness involved in breastfeeding may help babies settle and regulate more effectively.
That said, not every family can or chooses to breastfeed—and that’s okay. What matters most is a safe, nurturing feeding relationship between you and your baby, whether that’s through breastmilk, formula, or a combination of both.
If you’re looking to explore more about the pros and considerations of each, I’ve written a dedicated blog on this exact topic:
👉 Breastfeeding vs Formula Feeding: A Balanced Look at What’s Best for Your Family (insert actual link)
Whichever path you take, rest assured that you can still follow all the other safe sleep guidelines and give your baby a secure, loving sleep space.
9. Avoid overheating
Why: Babies who overheat during sleep are at increased risk of SIDS. Unlike adults, babies can’t regulate their body temperature well—and they’re more vulnerable to changes in their environment.
To avoid overheating:
Dress baby in layers you can add or remove easily
Use a safe sleep sack (rather than blankets)
Keep the room between 20–22°C if possible
Avoid using electric blankets or hot water bottles
Don’t cover baby’s head indoors
A good guide? Feel baby’s chest or back—it should be warm, not hot or sweaty. Cold hands and feet are normal and not a sign they’re cold overall.
These recommendations are the foundation of safe sleep. While there’s a lot to take in at first, most of it becomes second nature quickly. Think of this not as a checklist, but as a toolkit, you can keep coming back to it as your baby grows and their sleep needs change.
Setting Up a Safe Sleep Environment
Creating a safe sleep space doesn’t have to be fancy, it just needs to follow some simple guidelines that protect your baby while they rest. Whether you’re setting up a cot, bassinet, or sidecar sleeper, the key is to keep it firm, flat, and clear. Let’s walk through what that actually looks like in your home.
Cot, Bassinet or Sidecar Sleeper: What to Use and How to Use It
First things first: babies should always sleep in a purpose-built sleep space that meets Australian and New Zealand safety standards (or your countries safety standards), you’ll usually see these written as AS/NZS followed by a number in Aus and NZ.
For example:
Cots should comply with AS/NZS 2172
Bassinets/cradles should comply with AS/NZS 2195
These standards are there to make sure the product has been tested for things like stability, spacing of slats, depth, mattress firmness, and safety of materials used - all to reduce risks like entrapment, falls, and suffocation. If you're not sure whether a product complies, look for the AS/NZS label or ask the retailer directly. Avoid second-hand items that may have been modified or no longer meet safety standards.
Whichever sleep space you use, make sure it’s:
Firm and flat (no incline or tilt)
Free from pillows, bumpers, toys or loose bedding
Fitted with a snug-fitting mattress (no gaps around the edges)
Made with breathable sides, ideally mesh or slats spaced correctly
✳️ Please avoid using sleep loungers, rockers, or swings for any kind of sleep—even supervised. I know I mentioned this earlier in the recommendations section, but it’s so important that it’s worth repeating here too. These products might look comfy or convenient (especially during those tricky newborn weeks), but research shows they can and have led to babies stopping breathing during naps, even with a caregiver sitting right next to them.
I personally know of a family who experienced this—their baby stopped breathing while asleep in a lounger and they had to perform CPR to save their little one’s life, which thankfully they did. It’s truly terrifying, and something no parent should ever have to go through.
Where to Place the Cot or Bassinet
Once you’ve got a safe cot or bassinet, the next step is figuring out where to place it—and this decision can make a big difference in both safety and sleep quality.
Room sharing is recommended.
Leading organisations like Red Nose Australia, the World Health Organization, and the American Academy of Pediatrics all recommend that baby sleeps in the same room as you (but on a separate sleep surface) for at least the first 6 months, and ideally up to 12 months. Research shows that room-sharing can significantly reduce the risk of SUDI, likely because you're more attuned to baby’s needs, movements and sounds - and it can also support safer, easier overnight feeds.
So ideally, place baby’s cot or bassinet:
Right next to your bed or within arm’s reach
Where you can easily see, hear, and respond to them during the night
Avoid placing the sleep space near potential hazards, like:
Windows with curtains or blind cords (which can pose a strangulation risk)
Wall hangings or shelves that could fall into the cot
Heaters, fans, or power cords, which can overheat baby or pose other risks
Areas where pets might be able to jump in, or where older siblings might be tempted to “help”
Create a calm and uncluttered sleep zone
You don’t need much - just a firm, flat surface and a clear space around it. Try to keep the area free from toys, excess decorations or anything else that could distract or overstimulate your baby (especially during night wakes). A soft night light for you is fine, but avoid bright lights or mobiles that light up and spin, especially for overnight sleep.
If your bedroom doesn’t have space for a full-size cot, a bassinet or sidecar sleeper can be a great short-term solution. Just make sure it meets safety standards and is used exactly as intended (no modifications, mattress swaps, or extras added in).
It’s all about balance - keeping your baby close, but safe. A thoughtfully placed sleep space not only helps protect your baby, but also gives you more confidence and peace of mind as you navigate those precious (and sometimes sleep-deprived!) early months.
What about car capsules?
You might’ve noticed I’ve mentioned this before—and I’m going to say it again here because it’s that important. Car capsules are designed for transport, not prolonged sleep. While it’s completely normal for babies to doze off during a car ride, they shouldn’t be left in a capsule to sleep for extended periods once you’re out of the car.
Try to limit time in a capsule to 1 hour at a time before taking a break—even just 5 minutes out can help reduce risks.
If your baby is asleep when you arrive home, transfer them to a flat, firm sleep surface (like their cot or bassinet) as soon as you can.
And this part is key:
Never place a capsule on the floor for sleep. The way a capsule sits when attached to its base (either in the car or pram) is different to when it’s just placed on the ground. That altered position can lead to a higher risk of airway compression or breathing difficulties - something that most parents simply wouldn’t know unless it was clearly explained (which is why I always include it).
Repetition might feel a bit over-the-top, but I’d much rather you hear this twice than not at all.
Final checklist for a safe setup
Firm, flat sleep surface (cot/bassinet/sidecar)
No soft toys, bumpers, pillows or loose bedding
Baby sleeps on back, feet at bottom of cot if using a blanket
Room is smoke-free and well ventilated
Sleep space is in your room for the first 6-12 months
Use a sleep sack or securely tucked lightweight blanket (we’ll go deeper on that shortly)
Setting things up safely from the start gives you peace of mind - and makes it easier to build consistent, healthy sleep habits as your baby grows. And the best part? It’s simple, affordable, and backed by all the leading health organisations around the world.
Co-Sleeping: Understanding the Risks (and When It May Be Considered)
Let’s talk honestly about co-sleeping. Because for many families—whether by choice, culture, or exhaustion—it becomes part of the sleep journey at some point.
But here’s the most important thing to know:
Co-sleeping is not recommended as a standard sleep arrangement because it comes with increased risks, particularly for SUDI and accidental suffocation. That said, it’s also something that happens—often unintentionally—when parents are desperate for sleep, or trying to soothe a baby who just won’t settle alone.
So rather than sweeping it under the rug, let’s unpack it together.
Why is co-sleeping risky?
When a baby shares an adult bed (or sleeps on a couch or armchair with a caregiver), the risks of accidental suffocation or overheating increase significantly. This is especially true in situations where:
The adult is a smoker, or smoked during pregnancy
Baby was premature or had a low birth weight
The parent is overly tired or has consumed alcohol, sedatives, or other medications
The sleep surface is soft, cluttered, or shared with other children or pets
These risks are backed by decades of data, including from Red Nose Australia, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the NHS. That’s why the safest place for your baby to sleep is on their own sleep surface, in your room, for the first 6–12 months.
But what if I do end up co-sleeping?
You're not alone. Many parents do, often unintentionally during night feeds or contact naps. If you find yourself frequently waking up with baby next to you, it might be time to look at safer alternatives—or at least understand how to reduce the risks if it’s happening.
For families who are considering bedsharing intentionally—perhaps due to cultural reasons, breastfeeding challenges, or sleep struggles—it’s essential to be informed about how to make it safer.
This is where the concept of the Safe Sleep Seven comes in. It’s a set of guidelines designed to help parents reduce the risks when bedsharing is happening, by ensuring that:
Baby is exclusively breastfed
Parent is a non-smoker
Parent is sober and unimpaired
Baby is healthy and full-term
Baby is on their back
Baby is lightly dressed
Sleep surface is safe and firm, with no blankets, pillows, or toys near baby
I’ve written a full blog that walks you through the Safe Sleep Seven, how it works, and when co-sleeping might be considered as a last resort or cultural choice.
You can read that here:👉 Safe Sleep Seven & Safer Bedsharing Practices
The key takeaway?
Never co-sleep on a couch or armchair.
These surfaces are the most dangerous and have been linked to the highest number of SUDI cases related to sleep environment. If you’re feeling drowsy while feeding at night, set up a safe space in bed or consider feeding in a chair without cushions where you're less likely to doze off.
No shame, just support
Whether you co-sleep, room-share, or use a cot from day one, there’s no “perfect” setup—only what works best for your baby, your safety, and your family’s wellbeing. As a sleep consultant (and mum myself), I’ll always support families with realistic, informed advice—because that’s how we keep babies safe, and parents confident.
Swaddling: What it is, when to start, and when to stop
Swaddling is a common (and often really helpful!) tool for newborn sleep. It mimics the snugness of the womb and can reduce the startle reflex, which means longer stretches of rest for your baby—and maybe a bit more for you too!
You can begin swaddling from birth, as long as:
Your baby is always placed on their back to sleep
The swaddle is snug across the chest but loose around the hips to support healthy hip development (the “hip-healthy” method)
You’re using a swaddle made of breathable, natural fibres like cotton or bamboo
It’s important to stop swaddling as soon as your baby starts showing signs of rolling, which can be anywhere between 8 to 16 weeks for most babies. Rolling while swaddled can become dangerous, as baby may not be able to reposition their head or push up if they roll onto their tummy.
If you’d like a full breakdown of different types of swaddles (arms in vs arms out, zippered vs wrap styles, etc.), I’ve got a whole blog post dedicated to that—click here to read it when you’re ready!
Transitioning to Sleep Sacks
Once your baby outgrows the swaddle or starts rolling, it’s time to move to a sleep sack (also known as a sleeping bag). These are a safe, cosy alternative that help regulate baby’s temperature without the risks that come with loose blankets.
Choose a sleep sack that:
Has armholes or sleeves (depending on the design)
Fits snugly around the chest but allows freedom of movement at the hips and legs
Is made of breathable material
Has a TOG rating suitable for the room temperature (and always follow the brand’s clothing guide underneath)
Sleep sacks not only reduce the risk of suffocation and overheating, but they also become a great sleep association for your baby. Over time, putting on the sleep sack can help signal that sleep is coming—just like brushing your teeth before bed does for adults.
When Can I Introduce a Comfort Toy or Blanket?
This is such a common question—and it makes sense! You want your little one to feel safe and settled, and it’s natural to think a snuggly toy or soft blankie might help. But timing really matters here.
According to Red Nose, comfort items like soft toys, loose blankets, or pillows should not be introduced into the cot until your baby is at least 7 months old, and even then, only if they’re developmentally ready (rolling both ways confidently, pushing themselves up, etc.). Waiting until around 12 months is often even safer.
Here’s why:
Young babies can accidentally roll onto or become entangled in soft objects, which can block their airway or increase the risk of overheating. Babies under 6 months especially don’t have the strength or coordination to move items off their face if something ends up covering their nose or mouth during sleep.
Once your baby is older and ready, introducing a safe, breathable comfort item (like a small cotton lovey or muslin blankie) can be a helpful tool for self-settling—but there’s no rush. For now, your presence and consistency are what help your baby feel safe.
Room Temperature, Ventilation & the Role of Fans
Let’s talk about one of those often-overlooked elements of safe sleep: the temperature and airflow in your baby’s sleep space. It might seem like a small thing, but it can actually make a big difference when it comes to reducing the risk of SIDS and supporting more comfortable, restful sleep.
What’s the Ideal Room Temperature?
Experts—including Red Nose Australia and the American Academy of Pediatrics—recommend keeping the room where your baby sleeps at a comfortable temperature, ideally around 20 to 22 degrees Celsius.
Why does this matter? Because overheating is a known risk factor for SIDS. Babies aren’t yet able to regulate their body temperature the way we can, so it’s important we help manage that for them.
A few tips to help:
Dress baby in light layers that are easy to adjust
Use a sleep sack with the right TOG rating for the season (you’ll usually find a handy guide from the brand to help)
If you’re unsure, feel the back of baby’s neck or chest—it should feel warm, not hot or sweaty
And remember, if you’re comfortable in the room wearing a light top, chances are your baby is too.
The Role of Air Circulation: Why Fans Can Help
Here’s something you might not know: running a fan in your baby’s sleep space can significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.
🌀 A 2008 study published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that using a fan during sleep was associated with a 72% reduction in SIDS risk. While the exact reasons aren’t yet fully understood, it’s believed that improved air circulation helps disperse carbon dioxide and prevents babies from rebreathing stale air—particularly in rooms without great ventilation.
Pretty amazing, right?
How to Use a Fan Safely
If you choose to use a fan in your baby’s room, just keep these simple safety tips in mind:
Make sure it’s not blowing directly onto baby. You want to gently circulate the air, not cool them down too much.
Position the fan out of reach, especially as your baby grows and becomes more mobile.
Keep cords well secured and out of sight, and avoid placing the fan near curtains or loose bedding that could be pulled into it.
Ceiling fans work great, but portable fans are also fine as long as they're stable and used safely.
A fan isn’t a must-have, but it can be a really helpful extra layer of protection—and many parents also find the gentle white noise it creates helps their baby settle and sleep better too.
Extra Safe Sleep Tips to Keep in Mind
By now, you’ve got the big-ticket safe sleep guidelines covered—but there are a few more gentle reminders and practical tips that can help protect your baby’s wellbeing while honouring your parenting style and cultural values. These little extras can make a big difference!
Supervised Tummy Time: More Than Just Play
You’ve probably heard that tummy time is important—but did you know it actually plays a role in safe sleep and healthy development?
When babies spend all their sleep time on their back (as recommended), it can sometimes lead to flat spots on the head (called positional plagiocephaly). That’s where supervised tummy time during awake periods comes in. It helps:
Build strength in the neck, shoulders and arms
Promote healthy brain and motor development
Prevent flat spots by giving the back of baby’s head a break
You can start with just a few minutes a few times a day from birth, gradually increasing as your baby gets stronger and more comfortable. And remember—it doesn’t have to be on the floor! Chest-to-chest tummy time while you’re reclining counts too.
Daytime Sleep Counts Too
Safe sleep practices aren’t just for overnight.
Daytime naps should follow the same rules as nighttime sleep:
Baby sleeps on their back
In a safe, flat sleep surface (cot, bassinet or pram with a properly fitted capsule)
No soft toys, pillows, or loose blankets in the sleep space
Supervised tummy time when awake, not during naps
It’s easy to feel like “just a quick nap” on the couch or in the rocker might be okay, especially when baby is extra tired or clingy—but sadly, most sleep-related infant accidents happen outside of cots, often during the day, when parents let their guard down (understandably—we’ve all been there!).
So yep, even for catnaps: safe sleep, every sleep.
Navigating Cultural Sleep Practices
It’s no secret that sleep looks different across cultures, and that’s something we wholeheartedly respect here. In many families, co-sleeping or bed-sharing is traditional, expected, or even necessary. And let’s be honest—sometimes it's just what works in the real world of parenting.
What’s important is to find a way to adapt cultural or practical routines in a way that keeps your baby’s safety front and centre.
I’ve written a separate blog post all about The Safe Sleep 7 and when co-sleeping may be considered a safer option if you’re planning to share sleep (read that here). But for now, just know:
There’s no one-size-fits-all for sleep
You are not doing it wrong if your sleep arrangements look different from your neighbour’s
There are always ways to make things safer, no matter your setup
If you’re unsure how to adapt your family’s traditions to current safety guidelines, reach out—you’re not alone, and there’s no judgement here.
Trust Your Instincts—but Know the Evidence
One of the hardest parts of parenting? The overwhelming amount of advice—from Google, friends, grandparents, and random strangers in the supermarket.
Here’s my gentle encouragement: you absolutely should trust your instincts—they’re powerful and valid. But pairing those instincts with the best available evidence is where the real magic happens.
The recommendations in this blog are drawn from:
Red Nose Australia
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
The World Health Organization (WHO)
And backed by years of solid, peer-reviewed research
And they exist for one reason only: to keep your baby safe.
You don’t have to do it perfectly (nobody does!)—but each safe sleep decision you make adds another layer of protection around your little one.
Conclusion: Empowering Safe Sleep Choices for Your Baby
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of this blog! 🏆 By now, you’ve got a wealth of information on how to create the safest sleep environment for your little one. The most important takeaways are simple but life-saving:
Always place your baby on their back to sleep, every time.
Make sure their sleep space is safe: a firm mattress in a bassinet or cot with no soft toys, pillows, or loose blankets.
Follow safe temperature guidelines: keep the room at a comfortable 20–22°C and dress baby in light layers.
Avoid co-sleeping in an adult bed, and only use a fan in the room if it’s positioned safely.
Introduce comfort items like blankets or soft toys only once your baby is around 7–12 months old.
It’s no secret that parenting can be overwhelming—there’s a lot of advice out there, and not all of it is based on the latest research. But with the right information, you’re in control. You can make safe, informed choices that will protect your baby’s wellbeing while helping them sleep better and grow stronger.
You’ve Got This, Parents!
If you ever feel uncertain or have more specific questions about your baby’s sleep, don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP, paediatrician, or a qualified sleep consultant (that’s me!). Everyone’s journey is unique, and sometimes a personalised approach can make all the difference.
Remember: You’re doing a great job. Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the best things you can do to protect your baby, and you’ve already taken an incredible first step by seeking out the right info. Keep trusting your instincts, and know that with the knowledge you’ve gained here, you’re setting your baby up for the best possible start in life.
If you ever have questions, need support, or just want to chat through your baby’s sleep challenges, I’m here for you! Reach out any time—you’re never alone on this journey.
Take care, and here’s to happy, safe sleep for your little one 💛
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If you're a new parent or deep in the trenches of the baby phase, you’ve probably heard a lot about “safe sleep.” Maybe you’ve already been told to always place your baby on their back or to avoid soft toys in the cot, but you’re still left wondering why it all matters so much, and what the safest setup actually looks like.