Sleeping safely in a cot

Babies who share the same room as their parents for the first six months or so have a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known as cot death. Here are some guidelines:

• The room should not be too hot as babies that overheat are at an increased risk of SIDS. They can get too hot because the room is too hot, or because they have too much bedding or clothing. The ideal room temperature is between 16 and 20ºC.
• You should always place your baby on his back with his feet at the foot of the cot to stop him wriggling down under the covers.
• Do not use a duvet, quilt or pillow if your baby is under one year old, or an electric blanket or hot water bottle.
• Make sure your baby’s cot is not close to a radiator.

The Department of Health and FSID say the safest place for your baby to sleep in the first six months is in a cot in your room. However, many parents routinely sleep with their baby so read about how to do so safely here. 

Further information

NCT's helpline offers practical and emotional support in all areas of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood: 0300 330 0700.

You might find attending one of NCT's Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area.

Bedtime basics are covered by the Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSID).

The Department of Health has information on how to reduce the risk of cot death.

For examples of alongside sleeping cots please visit www.nctshop.co.uk