Ensuring our little ones are safe, comfortable, and well-rested is always a top priority. The Lullaby Trust provides expert, evidence-based recommendations to help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related risks. At Glow Dreaming, we’re committed to supporting families on their sleep journey, and that starts with creating a secure and soothing sleep space for your baby.
Here’s what you need to know about setting up a safe sleep environment according to The Lullaby Trust sleep guidelines.
1. Back to Sleep, Every Time
The Lullaby Trust emphasises that babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep—for both naps and nighttime. This is the safest position and has been proven to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Once your baby can roll independently, they may choose to change positions, but always place them on their back to begin sleep.
Image from Red Noise Australia
2. A Firm, Flat Surface is Essential
Your baby’s sleep surface should be a firm, flat mattress with a well-fitted sheet. Soft bedding, including pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals, poses a suffocation risk and should not be placed in the cot setup. Cot bumpers are also discouraged, as they can lead to entrapment or suffocation.
3. Room-Share, Not Bed-Share
The Lullaby Trust recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents—but on a separate sleep surface—for at least the first six months. Keeping your baby close by can help with night-time feeds and monitoring while reducing the risk of baby sleep safety concerns. However, bed-sharing increases the risk of suffocation and overheating and is not advised.
4. Keep the Cot Clear
Less is more when it comes to a safe cot setup. The safest cot contains only a firm mattress and a fitted sheet. Avoid placing toys, bumpers, sleep positioners, or loose blankets inside. Instead, dress your baby in a well-fitting baby sleep bag to keep them warm while eliminating the risks associated with loose bedding.
5. Optimal Room Temperature and Ventilation
Babies sleep best in a room that is cool and well-ventilated. Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS, so aim for a room temperature for baby sleep between 16-20°C (61-68°F). Dress your baby in light, breathable layers and avoid covering their head. The Glow Perfect Sleep Sensor helps parents monitor room temperature and humidity in real-time, ensuring the ideal sleep environment. By providing accurate readings and alerts, it removes the guesswork from maintaining a safe and comfortable sleep space for your baby.
6. Offer a Dummy at Sleep Time
Using a dummy at nap and bedtime has been associated with a reduced risk of SIDS. If your baby doesn’t take to a dummy, don’t force it. If it falls out after they have fallen asleep, there is no need to replace it.
7. Avoid Exposure to Smoke, Alcohol, and Drugs
Exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, and drugs increases the risk of SIDS. A smoke-free environment is crucial for your baby’s sleep safety, both when awake and asleep.
8. Encourage Supervised Tummy Time During the Day
While placing your baby on their back to sleep is safest, tummy time while they are awake and supervised is essential for strengthening their muscles and preventing flat spots on the head. This is a key part of infant sleep tips and healthy physical development.
9. Consider a Pink Noise Machine
A peaceful sleep environment reduces disturbances and helps babies sleep soundly. Unlike white noise, pink noise for babies provides a more natural and balanced sound frequency that enhances baby sleep safety. The Glow Sleep Easy uses scientifically backed pink noise to create the perfect sleep atmosphere, helping babies settle more easily and sleep for longer. Make sure the volume is at a safe level (below 75 decibels) and place it at least 2 metres from your baby’s cot setup.
10. Follow Safe Swaddling Practices
If swaddling your baby, ensure it’s done safely—allowing room for hip movement to prevent hip dysplasia and stopping once they start showing signs of rolling over. At that point, transition to a sleep sack for continued baby sleep safety.
Creating a safe sleep environment doesn’t have to be complicated, and following these guidelines can give you peace of mind while helping your little one get the best rest possible. At Glow Dreaming, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your family’s sleep journey. By prioritising safe sleep practices, you’re giving your baby the best start to healthy and happy sleep habits.
