Safe Sleeping For Your Baby

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the term used when a baby dies in its first year from no apparent cause. Reasons for SIDS are largely unknown, and research continues, but it is without doubt one of the most devastating things that can happen to a parent. Although the exact causes of SIDS are still unknown, certain risk factors have been identified, and many of these are to do with the way a baby sleeps. Follow the advice below to reduce the risks for your baby and put him to bed with confidence...

Back To Sleep

One of the first recommendations is that babies should sleep on their backs – not on their front or sides. The ‘Back To Sleep’ campaign also advises parents to make sure they buy a firm and close fitting mattress, along with sheets that fit the mattress perfectly. It is believed that some babies when placed to sleep on their fronts may find it harder to breathe – particularly when they are as yet unable to lift and turn their heads well.

Overheating

Don’t prop your baby on his side, either. Overheating is considered another risk factor for SIDS, and rolled up pillows or blankets either side of a baby are a serious risk. Buy a thermometer for your baby’s room and keep an eye on the temperature. Between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius is considered the optimum temperature for healthy sleep for babies – you may be surprised at how cold this feels to many adults. We are used to our over-heated homes, especially in the winter, but babies apparently thrive in a cooler environment.

Sleeping Bags

For this reason, it is also advised to put your baby in a specially designed baby sleeping bag, rather than sheets and blankets. Apart from the risk of overheating, there is also the risk of suffocation or entanglement if your baby moves under the covers. Baby sleeping bags leave the arms free, but keep the chest and torso snug and warm. Make sure you buy the right size for your baby, and the correct tog for the temperature of your room. Following is a rough guide to tog and baby-wear – do consult the instructions that come with your baby sleeping bag:

Summer months (20-24 C) – Your baby can wear a vest and use a 1 – 1.5 tog sleeping bag.

Very hot weather (25 C plus) – Your baby can sleep in a vest alone, or a thin (0.5 tog) sleeping bag and just a nappy.

Winter/Cooler nights (16-19 C) – Your baby can wear a long-sleeved sleep-suit and a 2 – 2.5 tog sleeping bag.

Very cold weather (minus 16 C) – Your baby can wear a vest underneath his sleep-suit, and use a 2.5 tog sleeping bag.

Feet To Base

Place your baby to sleep with his feet at the bottom of the cot, especially if you are using covers. This will stop him from being able to shuffle his way down the bed underneath the covers.

No Smoking

Nobody should ever smoke around your baby at any time – this is considered a high risk factor for SIDS. Pay particular attention to keeping his nursery completely smoke free.

More Baby Sleep

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AV Baby content is for information only. If you are at all worried about your baby, please seek the advice of your midwife, doctor or paediatrician.

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