Safety Guide for Newborn Babies

0 to 3 Months

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The SAFE SLEEPING GUIDE to keep your baby Safe at all times

Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This protects your baby's airway whilst they are sleeping.

Ensure baby's face and head are always uncovered. Make sure all bedding is tucked in under the armpit area and away from baby's face.

Make sure your baby does not overheat with too much clothing and bedding. Dress baby appropriately for the temperature in the room. Use the guidelines for the tog rating/room temperature recommended.

Keep your baby in a smoke-free environment at all times.

Put baby to sleep in their own sleep space. Keep baby in your room either in a bed side sleeper, bassinet or cot. Place baby in their cot/bassinet with their feet at the bottom of their cot/bassinet, bedding well-tucked in. Ensure where your baby sleeps complies with Australian Standards.

Make sure you do not leave your baby asleep or awake alone on a couch, beanbag, waterbed, cushion or pillow.

Ensure heaters are well away from the cot/bassinet to avoid overheating and burns.

Ensure cords, wires and blinds are well away from baby's reach at all times.

Never use electric blankets, hot water bottles or wheat packs for babies.

Keep smells to a minimum (perfume, scented candles and flowers) these can overstimulate your baby's senses.

Make sure toddlers and children are never left alone with babies, always supervise them.

Do not allow anyone who is unwell or unvaccinated for whooping cough around your newborn.

Once your baby is rolling or at an age appropriate for rolling onto their tummy, their arms should 100% be out of the swaddle. This is the time to transition to a sleeveless or arms-free sleeping bag.