Safe sleeping: put babies on their backs to sleep

Put your baby to sleep on their back. This cuts the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) including SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents.

Don’t put your baby on their tummy to sleep. Babies who sleep on their tummies are at greater risk of SUDI.

Don’t put your baby on their side to sleep. Babies who sleep on their sides are at greater risk of SUDI.
Safe sleeping environment

Use a mattress that is flat, firm and fits the cot well. Put your baby’s feet at the bottom of the cot and tuck in the sheets firmly. Have the cot in your room for the first 6-12 months.

Don’t use quilts, doonas, lamb’s wool, pillows, soft toys, bumpers or anything that could cover your baby’s head. Don’t let baby sleep on a couch or armchair.
Reducing SUDI risk: breastfeed, avoid overheating, don’t smoke

If you can, breastfeed your baby or feed baby with expressed breastmilk for the first six months. Breastfeeding reduces SUDI risk.

Don’t overdress your baby. Keep baby’s face and head uncovered. Overheating is a SUDI risk.

Don’t smoke during pregnancy or around your baby. Smoke is a SUDI risk. If it’s hard to quit smoking, call Quitline on 137 848 for help.
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