We’re sharing the ultimate guide to a safer sleep environment so that you are equipped and empowered with the information you need to help make the best choices for your child.

1. Always place your bub on their back to sleep

It is recommended that bubs be placed on their backs for every sleep, including nap times. It’s important to follow the ABC’s of safe sleep: placing bub Alone, on their Back, in their Cot (or other safe sleeping place). If your child falls asleep in a swing, car seat, pram, etc. they should be moved to a firm sleep surface as soon as possible. Remember, every sleep counts. 

2. Place your bub to sleep on a firm surface

All cots, bassinets, portable cots and/or playpen should meet current safety standards. Check to make sure that there are no product recalls, and that there are no broken or missing pieces. Drop rail cots should not be used. Use a firm mattress that is compatible with the product you are using, and cover it in a tight-fitting fitted sheet. 

3. Keep loose objects out of the cot

Loose objects such as stuffed animals, toys, loose bedding, blankets, pillows and cot bumpers can all increase the risk of entrapment, suffocation, overheating or strangulation. Though stuffed toys and soft blankets may be cute to look at, just remember: Bare is Best!

4. Share your room, but not your bed

Room sharing (keeping your bub’s sleep area separate from your sleep area in the same room) is recommended as a way to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death. It is recommended to share a bedroom preferably until Bub turns 1, but at least for the first six months. Bubs should not be placed on adult mattresses to sleep. If you bring your bub into your bed to feed them, make sure they’re put back into their separate sleeping area when you are finished.

5. Don’t let your bub get too hot

Keep the room temperature where your bub sleeps at a comfortable level. Don’t overdress your bub. A good rule of thumb to follow is to put on one extra layer of clothing than an adult would wear to be comfortable. Do not cover your bub’s head. Use a sleeping bag if you’re worried your bub is too cold.  

6. Breastfeed, if possible

While breastfeeding might not be an option for everyone, it has been proven to help reduce the risk of SIDS. This has been shown in bubs who are breastfed or bottle fed with breast milk for the first six months of life. Breastfeeding also has many other health benefits for bubs and mothers.

7. Tummy time is important!

Giving your bub tummy time is a great way to socialize with your newborn and encourage lots of eye contact. It also helps strengthen neck muscles and avoid flat spots on the back of the head. Make sure you always stay next to your bub and make sure they are awake.

8. Use a smart baby monitor

While nothing replaces safe sleep practices, many parents find added reassurance in using smart baby monitoring technology. Owlet Dream Duo™ combines Dream Sock™ and Owlet Cam® 2 to provide real-time insights into your bub’s sleep and wellness. Dream Sock tracks your bub’s pulse rate, oxygen level, and sleep trends and sends alerts if anything falls outside of the preset ranges, so you’ll be notified if your bub needs you.

Owlet Cam 2, streams HD video and audio to your phone, allowing you to check in on your bub from anywhere. While no device replaces safe sleep habits, tools like Owlet Dream Duo can offer added peace of mind and help you feel more connected and confident as a parent.

We hope these tips have helped! If you ever have any questions or concerns, please consult with your paediatrician. 

The content provided on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have and to learn more about your child's specific needs.

Owlet Dream Sock is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or other condition, including but not limited to, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and/or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Dream Sock should not substitute for the care and oversight of an adult or consultation with medical professionals.