The Golden Rules of Safe Sleeping
Safe sleep practices are the foundation of any baby’s room. Following these rules, which are backed by extensive research, significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Back to Sleep: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, for every sleep, day and night.
- Clear Cot/Bassinet: The sleep space should be clear of all items. This means no pillows, bumpers, soft toys, or decorative items that could pose a suffocation risk.
- No hats or bibs: Avoid using hats, bibs, or head shape pillows.
- No Loose Bedding: Use firm, well-fitting sheets that are tucked in securely. Avoid loose blankets, doonas, or quilts. Sleep sacks or sleeping bags are a safe alternative to blankets, provided they are the correct size for your baby.
- Safe Room Temperature: Keep the room at a comfortable temperature—not too hot or too cold. A good guide is to dress your baby in no more than one layer of clothing than an adult would wear to be comfortable.
- No cigarette smoke.
- Breastfeed if possible.
- Sleep in parents’ room where possible.
Essential Nursery Furniture and Safety
Choosing the right furniture is a key part of creating a safe nursery. The cot, in particular, must meet specific safety standards.
- Choosing a Safe Cot or Bassinet: Ensure the cot meets current Australian safety standards (AS/NZS 2172). Check for wide gaps between slats, which should be no more than 50-95mm apart. The cot should be sturdy, with no loose parts or splinters.
- Safe Mattresses and Bedding: A safe mattress is one that is firm, flat, and fits the cot perfectly without any gaps at the sides. This prevents your baby from getting trapped. Use only well-fitting sheets—avoiding quilts, pillows and duvets in the cot.
- Location of the Cot in the Room: The cot’s placement is critical for safety. It should be away from windows, cords from blinds or curtains, and any furniture that a climbing toddler could use to escape the cot.
Designing a Calming and Practical Space
With the safety elements in place, you can now focus on creating a calming and practical environment.
- Lighting and Window Coverings: Use blackout blinds or curtains to create a dark sleep environment for the night, which can help promote a better nighttime routine. A dim night light is useful for nighttime feeds and nappy changes.
- Organisation and Storage: A well-organised nursery is a stress-free nursery. Use shelves, baskets, and drawers to keep nappies, wipes, clothes, and other essentials within easy reach.
- The Role of a Comfortable Chair: A comfortable armchair or glider can be an invaluable addition for late-night feeds and cuddles for some new parents. Placing a small side table or movable caddy next to it for a bottle, book, or phone is also a practical idea.
Beyond the Cot: Other Nursery Safety Measures
While the cot is the main focus, there are other important safety measures to consider throughout the room.
- Securing Furniture: Secure all heavy furniture, such as bookshelves and drawers, to the wall using anchors or brackets. This prevents them from toppling over if your baby attempts to climb them as they grow.
- Cord Safety: Any cords from blinds, curtains, or monitors should be secured and kept out of your baby’s reach to prevent strangulation.
- Using Baby Monitors: Baby monitors can offer peace of mind, but ensure the monitor and its cords are placed far away from the cot.
Creating a safe and beautiful nursery for your baby is a labour of love. By prioritising safety from the beginning, you can ensure a peaceful and secure environment for your baby to grow and thrive.
Carmel offers comprehensive antenatal classes to help you feel confident and prepared for your baby’s arrival. If you’re ready to embrace this journey with confidence, you can find out more about her classes and book your spot. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Carmel directly at [email protected].