Q&A Forum

22/1/21

Trina

Hi, can I put my newborn on his mattress on the floor for day sleeping? If so, what age is this suitable to?

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Posted a response on 25/1/21

Red Nose Education

Red Nose recommends the safest place for baby to sleep, for all sleeps, is in a cot that meets Mandatory Australian Standards on a firm, clean, well-fitting & flat mattress.

Is there a specific reason you want to place baby for sleep on a floor mattress for daytime sleeps?

There are many potential risks that need to be considered when baby is placed on the floor for sleep.
Some babies will wriggle & move around from a very young age, which may find them exposed to risks, such as the following.
Exposure to blinds/curtains/power outlets.
Is there risk of entrapment between mattress & wall?
Are there stairs nearby?
Are there other young children?
Or pets?
https://rednose.org.au/article/making-your-home-safe-before-moving-a-child-from-a-cot-to-a-bed

Safety organizations recommend that babies remain in a cot for sleep, until they attempt to climb out. This is usually around 2 -3 years or may be as early as 18 months.

Posted a response on 25/1/21

Red Nose Education

Red Nose does recommend room sharing for all sleeps, but not at the expense of a safe environment for baby to sleep in.
Red Nose has this helpful information.
Parents are not expected to observe their baby constantly. If your baby is sleeping in a separate room check baby regularly to ensure that the baby remains on the back and the head and face remain uncovered (as baby grows beyond 5-6 months they will move around the cot and roll over; settle baby to sleep on their back but let them find the sleep position they feel most comfortable in. A safe cot and safe sleep environment is still necessary for babies older than 5-6 months).
https://rednose.org.au/article/room-sharing-with-baby

A porta cot would be the preferable environment for baby’s daytime sleeps downstairs.
Ensure it meets Australian Standards. (AS/NZS:2195)
https://rednose.org.au/article/portable-cots

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