Safe Sleep for Babies: What the Guidance Actually Says

Placing babies on their back for every sleep is the single most consistent piece of guidance from health bodies worldwide. Once a baby can roll both ways on their own, you do not need to keep repositioning them.

A firm flat mattress with a fitted sheet, and nothing else in the sleep space — no pillows, loose blankets, bumpers or soft toys for the first year.

Overheating is a real risk. Dress in layers you can remove, and use a sleeping bag with a TOG rating suited to the room rather than loose bedding.

Sharing a room — but not the same sleep surface — for the first six months is widely recommended. Speak to your paediatrician about what suits your family.

Every baby is different. Anything specific to your child belongs in a conversation with your doctor, not a blog.