Baby safe sleep: the essentials
Before focusing on a timetable, make the sleep space the starting point. These basics apply to naps as well as night-time sleep.
Check the sleep space
- Start every sleep on the back. Place your baby on their back for naps and at night.
- Use a firm, flat surface. Choose an appropriate cot or bassinet mattress with a fitted sheet, without an incline.
- Keep it clear. Leave out pillows, loose blankets, cot bumpers and soft toys.
- Share a room, with a separate sleep space. The CDC recommends room-sharing ideally until at least six months.
- Avoid overheating and weighted sleep products. Keep the head uncovered. Weighted blankets, swaddles and sleepers are not safe for infants.
These points are summarised from CDC: helping babies sleep safely.
Build a manageable evening
Try a short sequence you can repeat: prepare the sleep space, meet feeding and care needs, then choose a quiet song or story. Share the sequence with other caregivers. Treat it as a family routine, not a promise that your baby will sleep through.
Our free schedule tool offers examples for ages 3–6 months. Adjust around your baby's feeding, tiredness and individual advice.
Do these precautions apply to daytime naps?
Yes. Use the same back-sleeping position and safe sleep surface for naps. CDC safe-sleep guidance.
Does the paid guide replace medical advice?
No. The 4-Month Sleep Regression Survival Guide is an educational resource with sample schedules and a tracker. Speak to your baby's clinician about health or feeding concerns.
What should I share with a grandparent or nanny?
Show them your baby's sleep space and walk through the five checks above together. Keep care instructions in one easy-to-find place.