Safer Sleeping for Newborns and Babies: Safe Sleep Advice for Parents

Every parent wants their baby to sleep soundly and safely. 

Whether it's a daytime nap or a full night's rest. The way babies are put to sleep matters. And the guidance around it is clearer than ever. 

A routine for safer sleeping for newborns and babies helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related incidents. 

Both the NHS and The Lullaby Trust offer simple, evidence-based advice that every family can follow. 

In early years settings, safer sleep is now receiving even greater focus. 

The changes to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) wording on safer sleeping are expected to come into force from September 2026. Clearly stating what good practice looks like.

What Is Safe Sleep for Babies?

Safer sleep refers to a set of straightforward, research-backed habits that significantly reduce risks during a baby's sleep. 

At its core, it means placing your baby on their back, in their own clear sleep space, on a firm, flat mattress - every single time they sleep.

The Lullaby Trust is clear that safer sleep advice should be followed consistently, not just at night. 

Naps count too. 

The good news is that once these habits become routine, they quickly become second nature for parents and carers alike.

Image by Magnific (formally Freepik)

Safe Sleep Basics Parents Should Know

The key principles are simple and practical:

• Always place your baby on their back.

  Known as the supine position, this is the safest sleeping position and should be used for every sleep, from birth. 

  
  

  (Please note, it is important to follow medical advice if your doctor/health professional has advised you for medical reasons, not to place your baby on their back.)

  
  

• Use a clear cot, Moses basket, or carrycot.

  Your baby's sleep space should be their own, such as a cot, Moses basket, or carrycot. 

  
  

  These need to be kept free from clutter, such as cuddly toys, bumpers, and pillows.

  
  

• Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress.

  Soft surfaces increase risk, so keep it simple and supportive. 

  
  

  Ensure sheets and blankets are firmly tucked in, or use a baby sleeping bag as an alternative. Sleeping bags must be of the correct age/size and tog for the season. 

  
  

• Keep the room at around 16–20°C.

  A consistent, comfortable temperature helps keep your baby safe and comfortable. 

  
  

  The risk of SIDS increases when a baby gets too hot. Use a room thermometer to help determine the ideal temperature. 

  
  

• Keep your baby in the same room as you for the first six months.

  This applies to every sleep, day and night. 

  
  

  It’s okay if you need to leave the room (go to the toilet, make a cup of tea, etc.), but staying in the same room lets you keep an eye on them.

These steps apply whether your baby is sleeping at home or in a nursery setting.

(Taken from The Lullaby Trust website)

What Are the New EYFS Safer Sleep Requirements from September 2026?

Following a letter to the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), the early education minister confirmed that there will be changes to the wording of the EYFS statutory framework. 

These changes will provide clear guidance on safer sleep expectations within childcare providers, particularly for children under two.

These changes are expected to take effect in September 2026. However, providers are already expected to be compliant now. 

The NDNA and the Department of Education (DoE) are in talks about how these changes will be assessed from September. 

According to The National College, the updated wording sets out that:

• Babies and young children must be placed on their backs in their own separate sleep space,

• Babies under twelve months are only to be placed in a cot,

• Sleep spaces must be kept clear, contain only a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight, tucked-in bedding below the child’s shoulders,

• Children’s heads must remain uncovered at all times, 

• Sleep spaces must be kept clear of any toys, pillows, bumpers, sleep aids, etc.

• Room temperature must be maintained between 16–20°C,

• Babies under six months must always have an adult in the same room during sleep, and

• All sleeping children must be actively supervised and regularly checked.

Childcare providers must also ensure their staff are familiar with the NHS guidance on SIDS.

This isn't a brand-new approach, but it strengthens and clarifies expectations that already reflect best practice on safe sleep for babies. 

For families, it means greater consistency and confidence across every setting their baby attends.

Image by jcomp on Magnific (formally Freepik)

Why This Matters for Parents when Choosing Childcare

When you're choosing a nursery or childcare provider for your baby, safer sleeping for newborns and babies should be one of the things you feel comfortable asking about. 

Good nurseries will welcome these conversations.

It's completely reasonable to ask how babies are put to sleep, how sleep spaces are kept, and how staff monitor and record sleeping children throughout the day. 

At Lucky Beans Childcare, we have always taken safe sleep seriously. We know that trust and safety are everything when it comes to leaving your little one in someone else's care. 

A Final Word for Parents

The safest sleep setup for your baby is usually the simplest one: on their back, in a clear space, on a firm surface, close to you. 

That's it. 

You don't need special equipment or complicated routines. 

If you have any concerns about your baby's sleep or would like to talk through how we support safe routines at our nursery, we're always happy to chat.

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Looking for a nursery that supports safe, consistent care routines for babies? Get in touch to learn more about our approach and how we care for the youngest members of our Lucky Beans family.