Safe sleeping

Sleep baby on their back from birth

Do not place baby to sleep on their tummy or side

Ensure baby's feet are against the bottom of the bed to reduce the risk of slipping under the bedclothes

Sleep baby with face and head uncovered (do not place doonas/duvets, pillows, lambs wool, or soft toys inside the moses basket)

Avoid exposing babies to tobacco smoke both before and after birth

Provide a safe sleeping environment

Sleep baby in their own safe sleeping environment next to the parent's bed for the first six to twelve months of life

If using a baby sleeping bag, ensure fitted neck and armholes for safety

If wrapping baby, recommended fabrics to use include a muslin or light cotton sheet or wrap. Bunny rugs and blankets are not safe for wrapping baby, as this may cause overheating

If wrapping/swaddling baby do not wrap higher than the shoulders, baby's face should not be covered. Do not place a wrapped/swaddled baby to sleep on their side or stomach. Place baby to sleep on their back only

Ensure baby's wrap/swaddle is firm but not too tight. A loose wrap/swaddle may be hazardous as they could cover baby's head and face

To avoid overheating if wrapping/swaddling – ensure baby is dressed in light clothing. For winter months light grow suit. For warmer months only a singlet and nappy

Ensure that sheets/blankets are tucked in securely so they are not loose

Do not place doonas/duvets pillows inside baby's bed

Keep your baby's bed away from any cords which may be hanging from blinds, curtains and electrical appliances as these may become caught around baby's neck

Keep heaters and electrical appliances away from baby's bed to avoid the risk of overheating, burns and electrocution

Do not use electric blankets, hot water bottles, or wheat bags for babies or young children

Babies are unable to escape from their bed to cool down should they become overheated and they do not know how to remove bedclothes

A baby that becomes too hot is at a higher risk of SIDS