Safe Sleeping

How to create a Safe Sleep space for bub

The safest place for bub is in their own safe space with a firm mattress and safe bedding

Safe Sleeping

Red Nose recommends six steps to protect your bub’s breathing and keep them safe while sleeping

1. Always place bub on their back to sleep.

Bub will find it easier to breathe and is safest sleeping on their back.

2. Keep bub’s face and head uncovered.

• Bub’s on back
• Feet to bottom of cot
• Blankets tucked in
• No beanies, hoodies or bibs

3. Keep bub smoke free before and after birth.

• Smoking during pregnancy and around bub after birth can cause trouble because smoking increases the risk of sudden infant death.
• Keep your home smoke free and don’t smoke around bub or near where they sleep. By doing this, you protect bub’s airways and it will keep them strong and healthy.
• You can call Aboriginal Quitline on 137 848. It’s free and you can have a yarn to someone who understands and can support you to quit.

No soft surfaces or bulky items

No need for soft items in the cot. Toys, pillows or doonas can be dangerous for bub. They increase risk of suffocation and overheating. Remove items such as: 

• Doonas, Pillows or loose blankets
• Cot bumpers
• Lambs wool
• Soft toys like a teddy

4. Safe sleeping environment night and day.

The safest place for bub is in their own safe space with a safe mattress and safe bedding.

Bub should be on their back with their feet to the bottom of the cot.

5. Sleep your bub in a safe carers room for the first 6 months

The safest place for your bub to sleep is in their own safe space, in the same room as their parent or adult caregiver. This is a safe space away from pets and siblings too.

6. Breastfeed your bub

Breastfeeding has shown to reduce the risk of sudden infant death. Giving breastmilk to bub is a good way to keep them strong.