Baby Sleep 101: Ways to Guarantee Their Safety While Sleeping

ByTarin Hussain
Updated: 20 Oct 2025, 9:30 pm

Worried about your baby’s sleep safety? Don’t stress, you can do a few simple things that make a real difference. From picking the right sleep position to setting up their sleep space properly, the choices you make really matter. Knowing what to do and what to avoid helps you make practical decisions every time you put your baby to bed!

Pregatips
Getting your baby to sleep can be one of the trickiest parts of parenting. You probably worry every time you put them down. Are they comfy, safe, breathing okay? That’s totally normal. Every parent goes through it.
In this article:
You might be surprised by how simple changes in your routine or setup can lower risks and help your baby rest better. Not every tip applies to every child, but understanding the basics makes it a lot easier to keep them safe while they sleep. Once you get the hang of it, creating a safe sleep space isn’t as stressful as it seems.

Why Safe Sleep Matters for Your Baby

Your newborn may sleep as much as 17 hours a day, and of course, you won’t be watching every moment. That’s why a safe sleep setup matters. It lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and suffocation.

When you know the dos and don’ts, you can feel more at ease and keep your baby safe while they rest.

How to Keep Baby Safe While Sleeping

Follow these tips for safe naptime:

1. Always Place Your Baby on Their Back

The safest position for your baby to sleep in is on their back, whether it’s nap time or bedtime. This lowers the risk of SIDS and makes it easier for them to breathe. Since newborns don’t yet have the strength to move their heads if their airway gets blocked, placing them on their back is really important.
By around three or four months, your baby might roll onto their stomach on their own. If they can roll both ways (back to stomach and stomach to back), you don’t need to keep flipping them back. Until then, if you see them on their stomach, gently reposition them onto their back.

2. Use a Firm, Flat Sleep Surface

It might feel natural to make your baby’s bed soft and cozy, but that can be dangerous for newborns. A firm, flat mattress with a tightly fitted sheet is the safest choice.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
  • Choose a mattress that doesn’t sink or dip under your baby’s weight.
  • Use only a fitted sheet, nothing loose or fluffy.
  • Make sure the mattress supports your baby’s developing neck and spine.

3. Keep the Sleep Area Clear of Hazards

Your baby’s crib or bassinet should be a clutter-free space. Extra items like blankets, pillows, or stuffed toys can increase the risk of suffocation.
Follow these tips:
  • Remove all toys, blankets, and duvets from the crib.
  • Keep the crib away from windows, cords, curtains, or blinds to avoid strangulation or entanglement.

4. Prevent Overheating During Sleep

Babies can’t regulate their body temperature like adults, so it’s up to you to keep them comfy without letting them overheat.
Here’s how to do it:
  • Dress your baby in one extra layer than what you’re wearing.
  • Keep the room between 20 to 22°C, which feels comfortable for most adults.
  • Use breathable fabrics like cotton or muslin for swaddling. But stop swaddling once your baby starts rolling over to avoid restricting their movement.

5. Room-Sharing, Not Bed-Sharing

Having your baby close at night is wonderful for bonding and makes night feeds easier, but sharing your bed isn’t safe. Adult beds have soft mattresses, blankets, and pillows that can increase the risk of suffocation.

Instead, try room-sharing:
  • Place a crib or bassinet next to your bed for the first six months to a year.
  • Make sure the crib or bassinet meets safety standards, with a firm mattress and breathable sides.
  • Keep the sleep surface clear of any extra items.

6. Choose a Safe Crib and Mattress

Your baby’s crib and mattress should be sturdy and built with safety in mind. A strong, well-designed crib supports healthy growth and reduces risks.
Look for these features:
  • A strong frame with no gaps or loose parts where your baby could get stuck.
  • A mattress that stays firm and flat, even at the edges, to prevent dipping.
  • Waterproof and breathable mattress covers to keep the mattress clean and allow airflow if your baby rolls over.

7. Dress Your Baby for Comfort and Safety

What your baby wears to bed is just as important as where they sleep. The aim is to keep them comfortable without letting them overheat. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing, like a cotton onesie or a sleep sack. If you swaddle, pick a thin, breathable fabric.
Creating a safe sleep space for your baby doesn’t have to be tricky. If you’re ever unsure, your paediatrician can give helpful guidance. Following these steps means you can relax a little more, knowing your baby is sleeping safely!
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Baby Sleep 101: Ways to Guarantee Their Safety While Sleeping


  1. Is it safe to use a crib bumper?
    No. Crib bumpers can pose a risk of suffocation, strangulation, or entrapment and are not recommended for baby sleep.
  2. Can white noise help babies sleep safely?
    Yes, white noise can help babies settle and sleep. But keep the volume low and place the device at a safe distance from the crib.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr. Sushma K, Consultant- Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore