Safe sleep
Safe sleep means creating a sleeping environment that lowers your baby's risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and accidental suffocation. The key rules are: always place your baby on their back on a firm, flat mattress; keep the crib free of pillows, soft toys, loose blankets, and bumpers; avoid bed-sharing, especially if you have consumed alcohol or are very tired; and ensure the room temperature is comfortable but not too warm. A fitted sheet on a firm mattress in a separate cot next to your bed is the safest arrangement for the first six months.
What This Means for You
Understanding Safe sleep is an important part of your newborn/infant journey. In your baby's first year, you will hear this term from your paediatrician and in parenting communities. Knowing what it means helps you respond quickly and confidently.
Explore our Baby hubGood to Know
Singapore's Health Promotion Board and KKH recommend room-sharing without bed-sharing for the first six months. Traditional practices such as placing babies on their stomachs to sleep or using thick mattress toppers increase risk and should be avoided.
Related Terms
Source: https://medlineplus.gov/infantandnewborncare.html
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
Free Tools for Singapore Parents
Put your knowledge into action with our free calculators and trackers.