How Can I Create a Safe Sleep Environment for My Baby?
2 min read Published 3 Jun 2026
By Georgia Hayward, Certified Infant & Toddler Sleep CoachSafety Comes First
Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most important things you can do to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The Lullaby Trust is widely recognised as the leading source of evidence-based safe sleep guidance in the UK.
Whether I'm supporting families as a midwife or as a sleep coach, your child's safety always comes first. Safe sleep advice is paramount and forms the foundation of everything else.
Before thinking about routines, naps or night wakings, it is essential that your baby's sleep environment is as safe as possible.
Current Safe Sleep Guidance
Current guidance recommends that babies:
- Sleep on their back for every sleep
- Sleep on a firm, flat mattress
- Have a clear sleep space free from pillows, duvets, loose blankets, cot bumpers and toys
- Avoid overheating
- Sleep in the same room as their parent or caregiver for at least the first six months of life
Temperature
Many parents worry about whether their baby is too hot or too cold during sleep. The Lullaby Trust recommends a room temperature of approximately 16-20°C. Using a well-fitting baby sleeping bag can help regulate your baby's temperature - ensure it is the correct tog rating for the room temperature and meets current British safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance when choosing sleepwear and layers.
Co-Sleeping
Many families find themselves co-sleeping at some point, whether planned or unplanned. It is important that parents understand how to make co-sleeping as safe as possible and are aware of situations where co-sleeping should be avoided.
This article provides a brief overview only. Always refer to current NHS and Lullaby Trust guidance for full safe sleep advice.
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This article is published by ParentBoost. It was written or reviewed for ParentBoost by the contributor below and edited by our team. It is general information for parents, not individual professional advice.
Georgia Hayward
Certified Infant & Toddler Sleep Coach
Hi, I'm Georgia. Based in Sussex, I am an OCN-certified Infant and Toddler Sleep Coach and NHS Midwife. I've spent over nine years working closely with parents and young children, giving me a real understanding of the challenges that come with early childhood, especially when it comes to sleep. Having experienced sleep deprivation first-hand as a mum, I now provide gentle, evidence-based sleep support tailored to your child's needs through my service, Tender Loving Sleep.
This article is general guidance for parents and carers, not medical, health, legal or other professional advice. Every child is different. If you're worried about your child's health or development, talk to your GP, health visitor or another suitable professional. In an emergency, call 999. For urgent advice, call NHS 111.
