Creating a safe sleep environment for
your baby: Tips and best practices

As new parents, ensuring your baby gets a safe and restful sleep is a top priority. Establishing a safe sleep environment is crucial in promoting healthy sleep patterns and reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Here we will provide valuable tips and best practices for creating a safe sleep environment for babies aged newborn to 1 year, focusing on the early weeks and months. We will also explore the benefits of using Snuza products—particularly the Snuza Hero^MD baby breathing monitor—to enhance sleep safety.

1. Place your baby on their back

One of the most essential steps in creating a safe sleep environment is placing your baby on their back for sleep. The Back to Sleep campaign — now known as the Safe to Sleep campaign, and supported by reputable organisations like the WHO — recommends placing babies on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS. This sleep position allows for optimal breathing and reduces the chances of airway obstruction, reducing the risk of SIDS enormously.

2. Use a baby monitor

Consider using a baby monitor to keep tabs on your baby while they sleep. Some parents like to use a simple audiovisual monitor, whereas others like the Snuza Hero^MD to enhance sleep safety and provide them with peace of mind. This portable, easy-to-use device clips onto your baby's diaper and monitors their abdominal movement. The Snuza Hero^MD is designed to detect even the slightest breathing movements, alerting you if no movement is detected for a certain period. This early warning system can help prevent potentially dangerous situations and provide reassurance, especially when you are sleeping, by becoming the early warning system you need in such an emergency.

3. Create a comfortable sleep environment

To ensure your baby feels comfortable and secure during sleep, here are a few simple guidelines that you can follow:

• Use a firm and flat crib mattress covered with a fitted sheet.
• Remove any loose bedding from the crib, including blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals. These items can pose suffocation hazards.
• Dress your baby in a sleep sack or a wearable blanket to keep them warm without needing loose blankets.
• Maintain a moderate room temperature (around 68-72°F or 20-22°C) to prevent overheating.

By following these guidelines, you will ensure your baby is comfortable, warm, and, above all, safe while they sleep.

4. Safe sleep practices

In addition to the sleep environment, adopting safe sleep practices can further reduce the risk of SIDS and promote healthy sleep for your baby. Here are some recommendations:

• Avoid smoking around your baby, and keep the sleeping area smoke-free.
• Breastfeed your baby if possible, as breastfed babies have a lower risk of SIDS.
• Avoid overheating your baby by dressing them in clothing suitable for the room temperature. Use layers, so that you can easily add or remove a layer during nappy changes if your baby is too hot or too cold.
• Share your room with your baby, but sleep on different sleeping surfaces. Placing the crib or bassinet near your bed allows for close monitoring and easier nighttime feeding while maintaining a separate, safe sleep surface for your baby.
• Avoid using sleep positioners, wedges, or other devices claiming to prevent SIDS. These items have not been proven effective and may pose risks.

5. Regular check-ups and vaccinations

Regular check-ups with your paediatrician are essential for monitoring your baby's overall health and development. Ensure that your baby is up to date with their vaccinations, as immunisations can help protect against certain illnesses that may increase the risk of SIDS.

Safe sleep: the foundation of your baby's wellbeing

Creating a safe sleep environment is crucial for promoting healthy sleep habits and reducing the risk of SIDS. Placing your baby on their back, using a baby breathing monitor like the Snuza Hero^MD, and following safe sleep practices recommended by recognised bodies are vital steps toward ensuring a safe sleep environment. Remember to consult your paediatrician for personalised advice and recommendations. By implementing these tips and best practices, you can provide your little one with secure and restful sleep, nurturing their well-being and growth.