Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most important things you can do to protect your baby. From choosing the right sleepwear to understanding the safest sleep position, here’s everything you need to know to help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and support safe, restful nights for your little one.
What Is the Safest Sleep Position for Babies?
Health professionals, including the NHS and Lullaby Trust, recommend placing your baby on their back to sleep, for every nap and overnight sleep. This simple practice has been proven to significantly lower the risk of SIDS.
Your baby should sleep:
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On their back, not on their side or stomach
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On a firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet
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In a cot, crib, or Moses basket that meets UK safety standards
Avoid sleep positioners, wedges, or nests that can increase the risk of suffocation.
What Does a Safe Baby Sleep Environment Look Like?
A safe sleep setup means keeping your baby's sleep space clear, flat, and breathable. Here’s how to ensure your baby's sleeping area is as safe as possible:
✔ Use a firm mattress with a well-fitted cot sheet
✔ Keep the cot free from pillows, duvets, soft toys, bumpers, or loose blankets
✔ Make sure the room is well-ventilated and not too warm
✔ Position your baby’s cot in your room for at least the first 6 months
Avoid co-sleeping on sofas or armchairs, and never fall asleep holding your baby in these areas.
How to Prevent Overheating While Your Baby Sleeps
Overheating is a risk factor for SIDS, so it’s important to regulate your baby’s temperature. The safest room temperature for babies is between 16°C and 20°C.
Dress your baby in light layers, and choose a baby sleeping bag with the appropriate TOG rating based on room temperature:
| TOG Rating | Suitable Room Temperature |
|---|---|
| 0.5 TOG | Over 24°C (hot summer) |
| 1.0 TOG | 20–24°C (mild weather) |
| 2.5 TOG | 16–20°C (cool nights) |
| 3.5 TOG | Under 16°C (cold weather) |
A baby sleeping bag eliminates the need for loose bedding and keeps your baby warm, but not too warm. You can find more in our TOG Guide.
Are Baby Sleeping Bags Safer Than Blankets?
Yes – baby sleeping bags are a safer alternative to loose blankets. They help prevent:
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Your baby’s face being covered during sleep
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Overheating due to multiple layers
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Kicking off blankets and waking up cold
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Getting limbs caught between cot bars
Look for sleeping bags that are:
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The right size (not too big, so your baby can't slip inside)
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Made from breathable, skin-friendly fabrics like organic cotton
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Tested to safety standards like Oeko-Tex 100
Slumbersac’s range includes both classic baby sleeping bags and sleeping bags with feet – perfect for toddlers who love to wriggle or stand up during the day.
How Can I Stop Worrying About SIDS?
It’s completely normal to feel anxious as a parent, but taking key steps can significantly reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS:
✔ Always place your baby on their back to sleep
✔ Keep your home smoke-free, before and after birth
✔ Breastfeed if possible, as it’s linked to a lower SIDS risk
✔ Avoid overheating and ensure good airflow in the room
✔ Use a baby sleeping bag with a suitable TOG rating
✔ Share your room for at least the first 6 months
Are There Any Warning Signs of SIDS?
Unfortunately, SIDS usually occurs without warning. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for any changes in your baby’s behaviour, such as:
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Difficulty waking
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Laboured or irregular breathing
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Unusual fussiness or lethargy
Always speak to your GP or health visitor if you notice anything unusual. Trust your instincts.
Safe Sleep Starts with the Right Sleeping Bag
Choosing the right baby sleeping bag is one of the simplest ways to create a safer sleep routine. At Slumbersac, we offer a wide range of:
✔ Baby sleeping bags in sizes from newborn to 10 years
✔ Sleeping bags with feet for active babies and toddlers
✔ TOG options for all seasons: 0.5, 1.0, 2.5 and 3.5
✔ Breathable, OEKO-TEX® certified materials
Explore our collection and give your baby the safe, comfortable sleep they deserve – and give yourself peace of mind, too.
Final Tip: Consistency Is Key
Safe sleep is about building consistent habits. Stick to the same routine every night, check your baby’s sleepwear and environment, and stay informed. You’re doing a brilliant job.
