The content provided on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have and to learn more about your child's specific needs.
Sleep is a word that brings mixed emotions and means countless long nights for practically every new parent. We won’t beat around the bush when we say tackling nighttime sleep with your little one is no easy task. Although you may feel like you’ll do just about anything to get some sleep, safe sleep for Baby is always the number one priority. That's why we've put together this safe sleep checklist—based on proven practices—to help you make sure your child is sleeping safely. Whether you're a first-time mom or experienced parent, use this checklist as a guide for creating a safe sleep environment for your child.
Safe Sleep Checklist for Babies 0-12 Months Old
1. Crib Safety
Make sure your baby’s crib:
→ Doesn’t have bumpers
→ Doesn’t have any loose objects like blankets, pillows, toys, stuffed animals, etc.
→ Doesn’t have drop-down sides
→ Doesn’t have any gaps around the edges of the mattress
→ Doesn’t have slats more than 6 cm apart
→ Does have firmly-fitted sheets on the mattress
→ Does have the recommended mattress height
2. Sleep Surface
Make sure your baby’s sleep surface is:
→ Flat (any elevated position is unsafe)
→ Firm (no cushions, pillow tops, or pads)
→ Clear of all loose objects (blankets, toys, stuffed animals, pillows, etc.)
→ Specifically labelled as a crib, playpen, or Moses basket (sleepers, nappers, loungers, or any other named surfaces should not be used)
→ Their own space (no bed-sharing with parents or siblings)
→ At least 1 metre (3 feet) away from furniture, windows or cords
3. Swaddling
Your swaddling should be:
→ Snug around the chest, but still leave room for your hand to slide in
→ Secure
→ Loose around the hips
→ Stopped when your little one starts to show signs of rolling
4. Dummies / Soothers
If you choose to use a dummy:
→ Only use one that’s made for babies - never substitute with items like teethers, toys, or your own finger
→ Never attach the dummy to their clothing with a string or ribbon
→ Don’t put it in their mouth while they're sleeping - wait until they're calm and awake
5. Sleepwear
Your baby’s sleepwear should be:
→ Loose-fitting and snug at the wrist and ankles
→ Free of strings or ribbons
→ Made of breathable, light fabric
6. Moses Basket
If you’re using a Moses basket:
→ Transition away from the Moses basket when Baby outgrows it. This can mean when they reach the weight/height limit or when your little one can roll out, sit or climb.
→ Only use the mattress sold with the Moses basket.
7. Room Temperature
Your baby’s room should be:
→ Cool - between 20 and 22 degrees Celsius is ideal
→ Well-ventilated with fresh air
→ Smoke-free
8. Baby Tips
Your baby should be:
→ Placed on their back for the entire first year
→ Allowed to sleep on their tummy if they can roll independently
→ Without any bows or clips in their hair during sleep
9. Sleep Outside the Crib
If Baby is:
→ Being snuggled or held for sleep, the caregiver must remain awake at all times
→ Asleep in a car seat, swing, stroller, or carrier, your little one needs to be moved to a flat, firm surface as soon as you reasonably can, recommended by the
AAP
→ Asleep in a car seat, it’s okay as long as the seat is installed properly in the car and Baby is properly buckled. Do not swaddle in the car seat. Do not use positioners, toys, padding, etc.
→ In a car seat outside of the car, the following must apply:
-
Baby must be buckled in
-
Baby’s face must be visible at all times to the caregiver
-
Car seats should be placed in the upper portion of the shopping cart or in a stroller
-
Remove Baby from the car seat once you arrive at your destination
10. Bedtime Routine
Your baby’s bedtime routine should be:
→ Relaxing and calming, without too much stimulation
→ Consistent from night to night
→ A time for you to bond with your little one - try reading a book or singing a lullaby together!
11. Learn from the Best
Sleep is a tricky subject, especially for new parents. That’s why we’ve created award-winning technology that helps you monitor what matters most. With Dream Sock ™ + Cam® 2 Bundle, you can track Baby’s pulse rate and oxygen level, watch and save video clips when sound, motion, or crying occurs, and time Baby’s next nap perfectly with Predictive Sleep Technology. Plus, you’ll be able to stream HD video to your mobile device so you can feel like you’re there from anywhere.
12. Follow Safer Sleep Guidelines
To help keep your baby safe during sleep, it's important to stay informed on the latest recommendations and practices. For more helpful tips on safer sleep, check out the Lullaby Trust website. Their guidelines are based on the latest research and provide advice on how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby.
Remember, every baby is different, so always consult with a healthcare professional for advice that suits your child's specific needs.
*Disclaimer: Please follow the advice of your doctor and stay up to date with recommendations from the NHS.
Author, Owlet Team
