Q&A Forum

28/3/23

Rachel

Hi! I was wondering what the safest place is for naps when we’re not at home? Our 4.5 month old son is close to outgrowing his pram bassinet. Up until now he’s had his naps in there when we’re not at home (under close supervision). I had assumed that he could continue naps in his pram seat (with it tilted to be nearly flat), however my husband has told me that this isn’t safe and is a suffocation risk if the baby’s head flops down. Are there ways to safely nap in the pram, or alternatives that are more suitable? Thanks!

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Posted a response on 29/3/23

Red Nose Education

Red Nose recommends that babies are placed for sleep in their own safe sleep space for all sleeps (day & night)
A pram does not have safety standards for sleep - especially if unsupervised.

Avoid sleeping children in prams or strollers. Never have an unharnessed child asleep in a pram or stroller as they can move about and may be at risk of falling or entrapment. If they are asleep, maintain regular supervision.
https://www.productsafety.gov.au/products/babies-kids/kids-equipment/prams-strollers

Never leave your baby unattended in a pram or stroller. It is not a substitute for a cot.
https://rednose.org.au/article/prams-and-strollers

Is your baby rolling yet?
Red Nose recommends that baby be transferred to a cot(not bassinet) when rolling & to cease swaddling.
https://rednose.org.au/article/what-do-we-do-now-that-a-baby-has-started-to-roll-over

Red Nose recommends that baby is placed for sleep on their back on a firm, well-fitting & flat (not elevated) surface.
https://rednose.org.au/article/red-nose-six-safe-sleep-recommendations

While supervised sleeping in the pram has worked for you up till now,  as baby grows, this may no longer be suitable or safe for sleeping - especially if unsupervised.
The safest place for baby to sleep when not at home in a portable or folding cot.
When you are out & about, of course baby will go to sleep in a pram, stroller or car seat, but when you reach your destination, it is important to place baby in their usual safe sleep space - usually a cot or portable cot that meets Mandatory Australian Standards.
https://rednose.org.au/article/are-there-recommendations-for-car-seat-or-baby-seat-use

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