The safest place for your baby to sleep for the first six months of their life is in a cot next to your bed.
We do not recommend co-sleeping under any circumstances.
While you are in hospital, we will show you how to place your baby on their back in their cot while they get some sleep.
The days following birth can be tiring, so you may like to have someone else in your room who can place your baby back in their cot while you get some sleep as well.
Safe sleeping for newborn babies
The latest safe sleeping guidelines are available on the SIDS and Kids website. It is important to follow these guidelines as research shows they can help reduce the risks of your baby dying suddenly.
The essentials for your baby’s first six months:
- Your baby should always sleep on their back
- Keep your baby’s environment smoke free before and after birth
- Don’t put any wedges, positioning devices or soft toys in your baby’s cot
- Make sure your baby is dressed appropriately (not too hot or too cold) and does not have their head covered while sleeping
- Where possible, feed your baby breast milk.
To learn more about safe sleeping, visit the SIDS and Kids website.
