The Core Rules
Always place babies on their back to sleep, for every sleep, until their first birthday.
Use a firm, flat sleep surface with a fitted sheet — no inclined sleepers or soft bedding.
Keep the Sleep Space Bare
No pillows, blankets, bumpers, or soft toys in the crib or bassinet during sleep.
A sleep sack or wearable blanket is a safer alternative to loose bedding.
Room-Sharing
Room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months is associated with lower risk.
Avoid sleeping with baby on sofas or armchairs, which carry higher risk than a firm crib surface.
Other Risk Reducers
Avoid smoke exposure during and after pregnancy, avoid overheating, and consider offering a pacifier at sleep times once feeding is established.
FAQ
What if my baby rolls onto their stomach?
Once babies can roll both ways independently, it’s fine to leave them in the position they land in.
Are baby monitors a substitute for safe sleep practices?
No — monitors can add reassurance but do not replace back-sleeping and a bare crib.
Is swaddling safe for sleep?
Swaddling is fine before babies show signs of rolling; stop once rolling begins.
Does a firmer mattress really matter?
Yes — soft surfaces increase suffocation risk; firm, flat surfaces are safest.