Creating a Safe Sleep Sanctuary: Essential Tips for Your Baby's Nursery

As new parents, creating a safe sleeping environment for your little one is paramount. Let's dive into everything you need to know about setting up a sleep-safe nursery that follows the latest safety guidelines and recommendations.

Room Sharing: The First 6 Months

The Lullaby Trust strongly recommends that your baby sleeps in the same room as you for the first six months. This isn't just about convenience – research shows that room sharing can reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) by up to 50%. When setting up your cot, consider a location that's easily accessible for those middle-of-the-night feeds while keeping it away from radiators, windows, and blind cords.

Choosing the Right Cot

Safety should be your top priority when selecting a cot. All our cots adhere to British safety standards and feature:

• Appropriate gap sizing between slats to prevent entrapment
• Sturdy, robust construction
• Smooth surfaces with no protruding parts
• Multiple mattress height positions to adapt as your baby grows
• Clear assembly instructions for safe setup

The Importance of a Safe Mattress

When it comes to mattress safety, we take no chances. That's why all our mattresses are foam-free – a safer choice for your baby. Our mattresses:

• Meet all British safety standards
• Provide firm support, essential for safe sleep
• Feature breathable materials
• Are perfectly sized to fit our cots with no dangerous gaps

Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment

Temperature Control:

• Keep the room between 16-20°C
• Use a room thermometer to monitor temperature
• Dress your baby appropriately for the temperature – remember, overheating can be dangerous

Safe Bedding Choices:

• Use fitted sheets that tuck in securely
• Avoid loose bedding, pillows, and duvets for babies under 12 months
• Consider sleep bags instead of blankets for safer sleep

Additional Safety Tips:

• Always place baby on their back to sleep
• Keep the cot clear of toys and bumpers
• Position the cot away from dangers like blind cords or electrical cables
• Regularly check all fixtures and fittings remain secure

Future-Proofing Your Nursery

While your baby needs to sleep in your room for the first six months, it's never too early to prepare their nursery. Consider a cot bed (a cot that converts into a bed) – this provides better value and grows with your child. Our collection includes options that adapt to your growing family's needs while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Regular Safety Checks

Establish a routine of regular safety checks:

• Ensure all bolts and fixings remain tight
• Check the mattress maintains its shape and firmness
• Inspect the cot for any damage or wear
• Verify the mattress still fits snugly with no gaps

Remember, while we ensure all our products meet safety standards, proper assembly and regular maintenance are crucial for continued safe use.

By following these guidelines and choosing quality, safety-tested products, you can create a secure sleep environment that gives both you and your baby peace of mind. Have questions about our cots or mattresses? Our team is always here to help you make the safest choice for your little one.

Need more advice about creating a safe sleep environment? Feel free to reach out to our customer service team or visit the Lullaby Trust website.