As a new parent, your baby's sleep is one of your top priorities—and creating a safe, comfortable sleep environment is essential for peace of mind. Safe sleep is at the heart of what we do, which is why we are so proud to have partnered with The Lullaby Trust in 2022 to further our commitment to baby sleep safety.

Here’s your expert-backed checklist to ensure your little one sleeps safely and soundly every night.

1. Choose the right crib

   Select a crib that meets current safety standards. Ensure slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, and avoid cribs with drop sides. Keep on top of crib recalls with trusted websites like Consumer Product Safety Commission.

   
   

2. Firm, flat sleep surface

   Your newborn should sleep on a firm, flat mattress specifically designed for infants. Avoid soft surfaces like couches, waterbeds, or adult mattresses to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

   
   

3. Keep the crib clear

   The rule number 1 for sleep safety is to keep the crib free from pillows, blankets, stuffed toys, or bumpers. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Lullaby Trust recommend nothing in the crib/cot except a fitted sheet.

   
   

4. Breathable, comfortable bedding

   Choose breathable, natural bedding materials like silk or cotton. Breathable crib sheets help regulate temperature, reduce overheating, and provide gentle comfort against your baby's sensitive skin. Silk has the added benefit of being temperature regulating which means it will help keep your baby cool during hot summer nights. Check out our soft, breathable silk crib sheets, designed specifically to keep your newborn safe and comfortable all night.

   
   

5. Optimal room temperature

   Maintain a comfortable room temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C) to help reduce the risk of overheating, a known factor contributing to SIDS. Dress your baby appropriately avoid too many layers of clothing.

   
   

6. Safe sleep position

   Always place your baby on their back to sleep until they're able to roll over independently. This position significantly lowers the risk of SIDS. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) emphasizes this position as safest.

   
   

7. Smoke-free environment

   Ensure your home is smoke-free. Exposure to second-hand smoke increases the risk of respiratory issues and SIDS significantly for infants.

   
   

8. Share a room, not a bed

   The AAP recommends sharing a room with your newborn, but bed-sharing is not advised. Place your baby's cot bed, or Moses Basket, near your bed for easy monitoring and nighttime care.

   
   

9. Monitor and night lights

   Consider using a baby monitor for peace of mind, but ensure all cords are safely away from the crib. Use soft, dim night lights if needed for nighttime feeds or diaper changes to maintain a calm environment.

Creating a safe sleep environment involves careful consideration of cot safety, bedding choices, room temperature, and safe sleep habits. By following this expert checklist, you’ll confidently provide the safest and most comfortable sleep setting for your little one.

Start building a safer sleep routine today—browse our beautiful, breathable silk bedding collection, specially crafted for your baby's comfort and safety.