Boost your websites' search engine ranking! Attract recurring visitation!
Automate your site's updates via Really Simple Syndication (RSS). To syndicate this article and other Sleep related articles on your blog or site, simply click on the XML Icon to grab the RSS feed -- It's FREE!

Safe Sleeping Guidelines for your Baby

Every parent wants to provide a safe sleep environment for their baby, but there are a few things you need to know in order to do so. The temperature of the room, the baby's position, the bedding and the crib are all important factors to think about. The guidelines provided here are intended to help you make informed decisions on how to set up the safest sleeping environment for your baby.

Baby's Bed

Until your baby is 6 months old you may want to arrange things so you can be in the same room while the baby sleeps so you can keep a close on your infant. In order to choose a safe bed, take the time needed to do some research regarding safety standards. You want to be sure the product is sturdy, the construction is sound, and the slats are properly spaced.
Choosing a mattress is equally important. It's usually best to buy a new crib mattress, but if you use a second hand mattress it should fit the crib snugly and be firm. Inspect it to make sure there are no cracks or tears and that it is clean and dry.

Choosing a mattress is equally important. It's usually best to buy a new crib mattress, but if you use a second hand mattress it should fit the crib snugly and be firm. Inspect it to make sure there are no cracks or tears and that it is clean and dry.

Your Baby's Temperature

Babies don't need a hot room in which to sleep, the ideal temperature is between 16-20 degrees Celsius (61-68 degrees Fahrenheit). As this may seem cool to us you might wish to think about getting a thermometer. As a general rule, if you are feeling comfortable in light clothing then the room will be warm enough for your baby. Never put your baby to sleep under a window, in direct sunlight, or next to a radiator, heater or fire. All night heating is rarely necessary and central heating should only be used if it's controlled by a thermostat. Babies need to lose excess heat from their heads so ensure the top of their head is not covered up.

Position

When you lay your baby down to sleep, be sure to place him on his back. Once your baby reaches 5-7 months of age he will be able to roll onto his side. This is perfectly normal and there's no reason to change the baby's position unless you want to. Practice the "feet to foot" position. This means when the baby's feet reach the foot of the crib, the blankets should not extend past the shoulders. The sheets and blankets should be tucked securely under the mattress so the baby cannot easily wriggle under the blanket.

Your Baby's Bedding

Babies under 12 months old should never use pillows, quilts, or duvets. Keep stuffed toys and blankets out of the crib and use just a cotton sheet with layers of light cotton blankets that extend no higher than the baby's shoulders. Be sure the sheets and blankets are tucked under the mattress firmly. Never use electric blankets or hot water bottles in the crib. If you need to regulate the baby's temperature you can always add or remove blankets. During the summer months, you may not need to use any sheets or blankets.

Your Baby and Co-Sleeping

While this topic is heavily debated, experts believe that there are enough risks associated with this practice to consider it unsafe. There is little risk during play time or feedings, but it's not a good idea to have your baby sleep in the same bed as you do. However, placing your baby's bassinet or crib next to your bed will allow you to check on him frequently throughout the night.

Additional Safety Advice

- Never smoke, or allow anybody else to smoke in the same room as your baby
- If your baby is appears to be sick or if you have any concerns, immediately seek medical advice.