Miya Pearson
There are many options for what a newborn can sleep in, and it's important to consider both safety and convenience. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing, as this reduces the risk of SIDS. Bedside cots and co-sleeper cots are height-adjustable and can be fitted right up against your bed, making them a convenient option for night-time feeds. Cribs are another popular option, and some cribs can be converted into a bed as your child grows. Carrycots are light and portable, often attachable to a wheeled frame, and can be used for the first few months. When choosing a cot or crib, ensure that it meets safety standards, with no gaps that could trap your baby's head and smooth, securely fixed bars no more than 6.5cm apart.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Baby bed | Crib, cot, bassinet, co-sleeper cot, Moses basket, pram, carrycot, baby car seat, swing |
| Baby bed features | Firm mattress, snug fit, adjustable base height, drop sides, wide base, rocking or gliding option |
| Baby bed safety | Meets British safety standard BS EN 716, mattress with no gaps, smooth bars, distance between bars not more than 6.5 cm, no pillows or duvets, no cot bumpers, no ties, no suffocation hazards |
| Baby bed placement | In the same room as the parents for the first 6 months, not in living room furniture, not in a car seat |
| Baby clothing | One extra layer than the parents, no overdressing, no hats or head coverings |
| Baby sleep position | On their back until their first birthday, avoid sleeping on the stomach or side |
| Baby sleep accessories | Sheets, cellular blankets, sleeping bags, swaddling, pacifiers |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Cribs and bedside cots
Cribs are usually made of wood and are smaller than cots, making them suitable for newborns. Many cribs have a rocking or gliding option to help soothe your baby to sleep in the first few weeks. Cribs can be used up to six months, so they're better value than a Moses basket.
If you're buying a new crib, look for one that meets British safety standard BS EN 716. The BS number should be in the instructions or marked on the crib itself. The mattress must fit snugly, with no space for the baby's head to get stuck. The bars must be smooth, securely fixed, and the distance between each bar should not be more than 6.5cm (2.5 inches), so your baby's head cannot become trapped. The crib should be sturdy, and all moving parts should work smoothly and not allow fingers or clothing to get trapped.
Bedside cots and co-sleeper cots are height-adjustable and have one open side. They can be fitted right up against your bed, which can be great for night-time feeds. If you'd rather not buy an extra bed for your newborn, cot separators are a good option. You can place these horizontally across the cot, keeping your baby in the 'feet-to-foot' position, so they can't wriggle down under the covers. Drop sides and an adjustable base height will make it easier to lift your baby in and out as they grow. When your baby is old enough to pull themselves up, simply lower the base so they can't climb out. New cots on sale in the UK should conform to British Standard mark BS EN 716-1. This will be listed in the product's specifications. If your cot is second-hand, the distance between each bar must be between 2.5cm (1in) and 5cm (2in).
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing. While room-sharing is safe, putting your infant to sleep in bed with you is not. Bed-sharing increases the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and other sleep-related deaths.
Babies should always be placed on their back to sleep, not on their stomach or side. This helps to reduce the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation. Babies who sleep on their stomach or side are at a higher risk of choking, suffocation, and SIDS.
Experts advise that babies should be dressed in layers that suit their bedroom's temperature to avoid overheating. It is important to prevent overheating and to make sure your baby does not get too hot.
Newborns' Eyes: Open While Sleeping, Why?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Carrycots
A carrycot is a lightweight, portable cot with handles, similar to but smaller than the body of a pram, and often attachable to a wheeled frame. Carrycots are designed to keep your baby snug and secure while you're on the move. They are a compact, portable bassinet designed for transporting your baby, providing a flat, sturdy surface for them to lie on.
When choosing a carrycot, it is important to ensure that it conforms to required safety standards and that the mattress is firm, flat, and in good condition.
Newborn Care: Dealing with Nighttime Vomiting and Sleep
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Sleeping bags
Swaddling, or wrapping your baby snugly in a thin blanket, can also help to soothe and calm them. However, it is important to stop swaddling once your baby starts trying to roll over, as it can be dangerous if they end up on their front.
Newborns and Parents: Should They Share a Room?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Swaddling
There are various types of swaddling blankets available in the market. You can use a flat cotton cot sheet or buy special swaddling blankets. The special swaddling blankets are designed to make swaddling easier and faster, with features such as fasteners or zippers. These blankets are usually made of soft, breathable fabric, such as cotton or muslin, which is gentle on the baby's skin.
When swaddling your baby, it is important to follow these guidelines:
- Ensure that the blanket is thin and lightweight, as this will help prevent your baby from overheating.
- Make sure the swaddle is not too tight, especially around the hips and legs, as this can restrict movement and hip development.
- Always place your baby on their back when swaddled, as this is the safest sleep position to reduce the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation.
- Stop swaddling when your baby shows signs of trying to roll over, as this can be dangerous if they are restricted by the swaddle.
Newborn Sleep: When Do They Sleep Through the Night?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Slings
When using a sling, it is important to ensure that your baby's airway remains unobstructed. The UK Sling Consortium recommends the "T.I.C.K.S. rules for safe babywearing":
- Tight: Slings should be tight enough to hug your baby close to your body.
- In view at all times: Ensure your baby's face is always visible and above the rim of the sling, keeping their nose and mouth clear.
- Close enough to kiss: Your baby's head should be as close to your chin as a kiss, supporting their head and keeping their airway protected.
- Keep chin off chest: Avoid positions that compromise your baby's airway, such as chin resting on their chest.
- Supported back: Your baby's back should be supported in a natural position, with their spine in a gentle curve.
Additionally, it is recommended to wait until your baby can hold their head up well before using a sling to reduce the risk of suffocation. Always check that buckles and straps are secure, and do not let the material cover your baby's head. It is also important to note that a sleeping parent may not be able to monitor the baby's position and correct any breathing difficulties, so extra caution is advised when the baby is asleep in the sling.
There are various sling options available, such as the Sleepy Wrap Stretchy Ergonomic Baby Carrier Sling, which is suitable for newborns to toddlers (7-35 lbs). It is made with a soft blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, providing a gentle and snug fit. The Moby Baby Wrap Carrier Ring Sling is another option, offering versatility and breathability for newborns to toddlers (8-30 lbs).
The Perfect Newborn Sleeper: How Long Should It Be?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Here are some safe options for a newborn to sleep in:
- Cribs
- Carrycots
- Bassinets
- Co-sleeper cots
- Moses baskets
- Cribs or cots with a firm mattress that fits snugly, with no gaps between the mattress and the cot, and with bars that are no more than 6.5cm (2.5 inches) apart.
Here are some safe sleep practices for a newborn:
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep, not on their stomach or side.
- Avoid overdressing your baby for sleep.
- Do not use pillows, duvets, or blankets, as they can restrict movement and increase the risk of suffocation. Instead, use layers of sleepwear or a sleeping bag designed for newborns.
- Do not let your baby sleep in a carrier, sling, car seat, stroller, or swing for extended periods.
Here are some tips for creating a safe sleep environment:
- Room-sharing without bed-sharing is recommended for the first 6 months.
- Use a pacifier to reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Avoid products that claim to lower the risk of SIDS, such as sleep positioners or monitors.
- Swaddle your baby, but stop once they start trying to roll over.
- Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and ensure there is adequate airflow.
