Creating a Safe Sleep Space for Babies

How to Reduce Risk and Create a Safe Sleep Environment for Babies & Toddlers

One of the most common challenges for new parents is newborn sleep. From the early weeks, questions like “how do I get my baby to sleep?” and “how can I help my baby stay asleep?” quickly become central to daily life. When exhaustion builds, it’s natural for parents to look for quick solutions just to get more rest. However, during this stage of fatigue, some sleep practices can unintentionally increase risk to babies.

We looked to Nicole Gleeson, Nurse, Trainer, Mum and owner of Rhythm First Aid for tips and advice on safe sleep practices for little ones.

It is not uncommon for families to begin bed-sharing, or for babies to fall asleep on couches, swings, loungers, or in baby nests. At the same time, products such as cot bumpers, sleep positioners, pillows, and soft toys are often introduced into the sleep space in the hope of improving infant sleep.

While many of these items are marketed as baby sleep products, they are not considered safe sleep options and can significantly increase the risk of SIDS and SUDI.

Although thankfully SIDS rates in Australia have decreased significantly, it remains a critical safety concern.

SIDS Risk Factors: The Triple Risk Model

Red Nose Australia explains SIDS using a Triple Risk Model, which includes three overlapping risk factors:

Critical developmental period – particularly in babies under 6 months
A vulnerable infant – an underlying biological vulnerability that is not yet fully understood
External stressors – unsafe sleep environment, sleep position, or sleep hazards

While parents cannot control biological vulnerability, safe sleep practices can significantly reduce external risks.

How to Create a Safe Sleep Space for Your Baby

A safe infant sleep environment is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Safe cot and mattress guidelines

Use a cot that meets current Australian safety standards
*All Sacred Bundle Cots are independently endorsed by INPAA (Infant & Nursery Products Alliance Australia)
Choose a firm, flat, and well-maintained mattress
Ensure the mattress fits securely with no more than a 20mm gap around the edges
Use only a tight, fitted sheet

If using a blanket:

Place baby with feet at the bottom of the cot
Tuck the blanket firmly under the mattress
Ensure it only reaches chest height and cannot ride up over the baby’s face

What NOT to Put in a Baby’s Cot (High-Risk Sleep Items)

To reduce SIDS risk, the sleep space should remain completely clear of loose or soft items.

Avoid placing the following in the cot:

Cot bumpers
Pillows or cushions
Quilts or loose blankets
Sleep positioners
Baby nests or loungers
Soft toys or comforters
Extra mattress padding

A safe sleep cot should be simple, firm, and uncluttered. A minimal sleep space not only reduces risk but can also help babies settle more easily without visual or physical distractions.

Safe Sleep Environment Tips for Newborns

Creating a safe nursery environment is just as important as the cot setup.

For safe infant sleep:

Share a room with your baby for the first 6–12 months (room sharing is recommended)
Keep the home and sleep environment completely smoke-free
Position the cot away from windows and direct sunlight
Remove cords, curtains, wall décor, and hanging items within reach
Keep heaters and electrical appliances at a safe distance from the cot
Regularly check smoke alarms, especially if using heating

Safe Baby Sleep Position Guidelines

Correct sleep positioning is essential for SIDS prevention.

Always place your baby on their back for every sleep
Never place a baby on their side or stomach unless they can roll independently
Keep your baby’s head and face uncovered (no hats, beanies, or hoods during sleep)
Transition out of swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling
Use a well-fitted, arms-out sleeping bag instead of wraps once rolling begins

Trusted Safe Sleep Advice in Australia

For the most up-to-date and evidence-based safe sleep guidelines, parents are encouraged to refer to Red Nose Australia, the leading authority on infant sleep safety.