safe sleep newborn
Newborn Safe Sleep — The Clear Rules for Every Nap and Night
Place your baby on their back on a firm, flat, level sleep surface with only a fitted sheet. Keep pillows, loose blankets, bumpers, toys and positioners out of the sleep space.
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The safe sleep setup
- Baby starts every sleep on their back
- Firm, flat and level approved sleep surface
- Only a fitted sheet in the sleep space
- No pillows, quilts, toys, bumpers or positioners
- Avoid overheating and keep the environment smoke-free
When adults are exhausted
Plan where you can place the baby safely before a feeding adult falls asleep. Sofas and armchairs are especially hazardous places to fall asleep with a baby.
Spit-up and back sleeping
Healthy babies’ anatomy and reflexes protect the airway. Back sleeping is still recommended, including for babies who spit up, unless a specialist has given individual medical instructions.
Common questions
Can a newborn sleep on their side?
Side sleeping is unstable and not recommended for routine sleep. Place the baby on their back.
Do sleep positioners make sleep safer?
No. Keep the sleep surface clear and do not use positioners unless a specialist has prescribed a medical device and given instructions.
Sources & editorial process
Written by the Elara editorial team from the sources above. This page has not been reviewed by an independent clinician. Read how we write and update health pages. Last updated .
Medical disclaimer: this page is general education, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are worried about yourself or your baby, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. In an emergency call your local emergency number.