The safest place for your baby to sleep is always in their cot. ‘Safe sleeping’ means always putting your baby safely in the cot for every sleep. This includes after night time feeding and for daytime naps.  Remember, the cot is not just for night time!  It’s easy to get into the habit of feeding your baby on the sofa or in bed and then inadvertently falling asleep, however you may accidentally smother your baby in this situation. This risk is greater if you have drunk alcohol, or taken any drug which slows your response to your baby. Babies can be smothered when sleeping on a sofa or bed, either alone or with you. Rolling into cushions, bedclothes or pillows can severely restrict baby’s breathing – as you can too if you sleep on the sofa or bed with your baby.

Never put your baby to sleep on the sofa or in your bed!

Take note of the following which will help to reduce accidents:

• Sleep baby in their cot in your room until they are 6 months old

• Place baby on their back in the cot when putting them to sleep

• Make sure their feet are at the bottom of the cot which prevents them suffocating under the covers

• Ideal room temperature is between 16-20 degrees centigrade

• Don’t drink or take drugs if you are feeding or cuddling your baby

• Don’t smoke near your baby

• Don’t share a bed with your baby if you have been drinking alcohol, taken drugs or medication or are very tired

• Don’t ever sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair

Please find attached a guide for parents and carers, which does provide further information: