When it comes to infant safety, a baby’s sleeping environment is frequently at the top of the
list of concerns for new parents and caregivers. Creating a safe sleep environment for a
baby involves careful attention to several factors, from their sleep position and surface to
monitoring baby’s temperature and safety of their cot. As infants lack the strength to move
themselves away from any potential hazards, it’s imperative to maintain an environment
where a baby’s airways cannot be inhibited or compromised in any way. We outline key
areas to address to ensure a baby’s sleep safety is maximised.
Cot Safety
The ideal place for a baby to sleep is in a safe cot or bassinet. You should never place a baby
to sleep or for a nap on surfaces such as sofas, cushions, or adult beds. A soft mattress or
sleep surface can increase the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Ensure the cot or bassinet is assembled correctly and that there are no gaps between the
mattress and the sides of the cot where a baby’s limbs could get caught. Infant and nursery
products are regulated in terms of the size of gaps and openings that are permitted.
Ensure your chosen cot complies with Australian Safety Standard AS2172
Check the manufacturer details and that products include proper usage information
Check size and age suitability of product
Comply with all product safety warnings
Regularly assess the product's suitability and condition
Never use ill-fitting mattresses or add extra mattresses to travel cots
Don’t use damaged or incomplete products
It’s important to note, that you should never use a cot made before 2013. Safety standards
have been significantly improved and new safety standards have been published.
Bassinets
Bassinets are suitable for use only until an infant begins to roll over, so they are typically
used for the initial months. As soon as a baby shows signs of pushing themselves up or
rolling, it’s time to transition to a cot.
Ensure the bassinet has breathable sides that allow good airflow. This is essential to keep
your baby comfortable and safe and promote optimal ventilation during sleep.
Mattress
Use a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly in the cot. The mattress should fit tightly, leaving no
gaps where a baby could get trapped. To assist with ensuring there are no gaps, mattress
bases must be stamped with a recommended mattress size.
The mattress should be covered with a mattress protector, fitted sheet, and nothing else.
Avoid using soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals, as these can pose suffocation risks. A
minimalist approach is best for your baby’s sleep environment.
Check for hazards
A safe cot is free from hazards. Keep the cot and sleep area free from any items that could
entangle, trap, or obstruct a baby’s airways. This includes toys, loose blankets, and bumper
pads.
Regularly check the cot for any loose parts or damage and avoid placing it near window
blinds or curtain cords, which can pose strangulation risks.
Sleep position
According to Red Nose Australia, placing a baby to sleep on their back is the safest position.
This ensures that the baby’s airways remain open and reduces the risk of SIDS. This risk
reduction is attributed to the fact that healthy babies sleeping on their backs have a lower
likelihood of choking on their vomit compared to those who sleep on their stomachs.
Bedding
Babies should sleep on their backs with their faces and heads uncovered. One effective
method to ensure this is by using a safe infant sleeping bag or swaddle, which are
specifically designed for infants with a fitted neck, and no hood.
Temperature and Environment
Overheating is a risk factor for SIDS, so keep an eye on the baby’s body temperature by
feeling their chest or back, rather than hands or feet. If they feel warm, are sweating, or are
short of breath, these could be signs baby is overheating and clothing and sleepwear may
need to be adjusted. If you feel your baby is shivering or showing signs of being too cold,
ensure you have dressed your baby correctly according to the room temperature and adjust
the TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) rating of your baby’s sleepwear as necessary.
Newborns struggle to regulate their body temperature efficiently, relying mainly on their
face and head to do so. Therefore, it's critical to ensure that a baby’s face and head remain
uncovered while they sleep. This means babies shouldn’t wear a beanie or head covering of
any type for sleep. This practice helps to avoid the dangers of overheating and minimises
the risk of suffocation.
Maintaining a smoke-free environment for your baby, both before and after birth, is
essential for their health and wellbeing. Ensuring that baby's sleep space is free from any
smoke exposure can also reduce the risk of SIDS.
Sharing Parents room
Sharing a room with baby for the first 6-12 months is recommended for their safety. Having
baby’s cot or bassinet in the parent or caregiver’s room allows monitoring the baby easier
and night-time feeding and soothing more convenient. However, it’s important to avoid
bed-sharing, as it increases the risk of suffocation and entrapment. A baby should always
have their own safe sleep space.
By complying with safety standards and recommendations, parents and caregivers can help
create a secure sleep environment that significantly reduces the risk of SIDS and other
sleep-related hazards. Prioritising these practices not only aligns with INPAA standards but
also helps provide peace of mind.
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