Safe Sleeping for Babies: Following the Red Nose Australia Recommendations

When it comes to caring for your baby, safe sleep practices are one of the most important steps you can take to protect their health and wellbeing. In Australia, Red Nose Foundation (formerly SIDS and Kids) leads the way in educating families on how to reduce the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and fatal sleeping accidents. Their recommendations are based on decades of research and provide parents with clear, practical guidance.

Below, we’ll break down the safe sleeping guidelines from Red Nose Australia, why they matter, and how to create a sleep environment that keeps your baby safe while giving you peace of mind.

1. Always Place Baby on Their Back to Sleep

The most important and effective safe sleeping practice is to always place your baby on their back to sleep—for every sleep, both day and night.

 

• Sleeping on the back significantly reduces the risk of SIDS.
• Side and tummy positions are unsafe for babies under 12 months, even for naps.
• Once babies can roll on their own, it’s fine to let them find their preferred position, but always start them on their back.

2. Use a Safe Cot and Safe Mattress

Not all sleep spaces are equal. Red Nose recommends:

 

• Firm, flat mattress: Ensure the mattress is well-fitting, firm, and covered by a tightly fitted sheet.
• Australian Standards-approved cot: Always use a cot that meets the latest Australian safety standards (AS/NZS 2172 for cots).
• Avoid soft surfaces: Never place a baby to sleep on couches, beanbags, or pillows, as these can increase suffocation risk.

3. Keep the Sleep Space Clear

One of the simplest ways to create a safe sleep environment is to keep the cot or bassinet clear.

 

• No pillows, doonas, toys, or bumpers. These can cover a baby’s face or cause overheating.
• No sleep positioners or wedges. They’re unnecessary and may be dangerous.
• Use a safe sleeping bag. Choose one that is the right size, has fitted armholes, and no hood, reducing the risk of slipping down.

NOTE: A clear cot is a safe cot.

4. Keep Baby’s Head and Face Uncovered

Babies regulate their temperature through their face and head, so it’s vital these remain uncovered during sleep.

 

• Place your baby’s feet at the bottom of the cot (“feet to foot” position).
• Tuck lightweight blankets firmly under the mattress at chest level if using blankets.
• Avoid beanies or hats for indoor sleep, as they can lead to overheating.

5. Ensure a Smoke-Free Environment

Exposure to cigarette smoke before and after birth is a significant risk factor for SIDS.

 

• Keep your baby’s sleep environment completely smoke-free.
• Make sure anyone who handles or cares for your baby avoids smoking near them.

6. Room-Share, Not Bed-Share

Red Nose recommends sleeping baby in your room, but in their own safe sleep space, for the first 6–12 months.

 

• Room-sharing makes it easier to monitor your baby.
• Bed-sharing (co-sleeping in the same bed) increases risks, especially if parents smoke, drink alcohol, are overly tired, or if baby is premature.

If families choose to co-sleep, Red Nose provides safer co-sleeping guidelines—but the safest option remains room-sharing with a cot or bassinet.

7. Breastfeed if Possible

Breastfeeding is linked to a reduced risk of SIDS. Red Nose encourages breastfeeding where possible, but understandably this is not always possible.

Why These Recommendations Matter

Each of these steps may seem small, but together they create a powerful protection against sleep-related risks. Research shows that following the Red Nose safe sleep guidelines can reduce the risk of SIDS and other fatal sleep accidents by up to 85%.

Safe sleep practices aren’t just about following rules—they’re about giving your baby the safest start in life and giving parents reassurance every time their child goes down for a nap.

Every parent wants peace of mind—and with these guidelines, you can rest easier knowing your baby is sleeping safely.