Safe sleep
ABC: Alone, on the Back, in a Crib
About 5 min Essential
Why it matters
A safe sleep setup is the most effective way to lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The easy rule is ABC: Alone, on the Back, in a Crib.
What you need
- A crib, bassinet or travel cot that meets safety standards
- A firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet
- A sleep sack for the season
Step by step
- 1 Alone: your baby sleeps in their own bed with no pillows, quilts, blankets, bumpers or toys.
- 2 Back: place them on their back for every sleep, day and night; side sleeping is not safe either.
- 3 Crib: a firm, flat surface. Surfaces inclined more than 10 degrees, sofas, armchairs, beanbags and adult beds are not safe.
- 4 For the first 6 months, keep the crib in your room next to your bed, but not in your bed.
- 5 Place them feet-to-foot (feet touching the bottom of the crib); if you use a blanket, don't let it come above the armpits.
- 6 Keep the room cool (16-20 °C). Dress your baby in one more layer than you, with no hat. Sweating or a hot chest means they are too warm.
- 7 Don't let anyone smoke near your baby or in the home. Once breastfeeding is established, a pacifier at sleep time can help.
- 8 If your baby falls asleep in the car or a car seat, move them to a flat bed when you arrive.
Common mistakes
- Lying down with your baby on a sofa "just for a minute".
- Putting them on their side so they don't choke on spit-up.
- Using a thick quilt or a hat to keep them warm.
- Using baby pillows, sleep positioners or inclined sleepers.
When to see a doctor
- Pauses in breathing, turning blue or very pale during sleep: call 112 right away.
- Hard to wake, very floppy, or breathing fast or with grunting: get help right away.
- Talk to your doctor if frequent snoring or breathing noises worry you.
This guide gives general information and doesn't replace a medical exam. If you're worried about your baby, talk to your doctor.