Designing a nursery is an exciting process, and we have so many options when it comes to ideas and products. However, at the heart of any nursery design should be the safety of the little people who use the room. For babies, it’s sleep safe and can reduce the risk of infant death.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known as crib death, refers to the sudden, unexplained and unexpected death of a seemingly healthy baby. In the UK, more than 200 babies die from SIDS each year. Most deaths occur within the first 6 months of life, usually while the baby is asleep. Although the exact cause of SIDS is unknown. There are many ways parents can reduce their risk and provide a safe sleeping environment for their babies. However, a safe sleeping environment can also look beautiful.
Read on for tips on how to create the safest and cutest nursery possible.
A Separate Sleeping Space
The safest way for babies to sleep is to sleep in a separate crib or Moses basket each time. The crib or Moses basket should have a flat, firm mattress and be protected by a waterproof cover. The mattress must be in good condition and not damaged. Although it is recommended that babies sleep in their parents’ room for the first 6 months, they should still sleep in separate cribs or moses baskets.
Optimal Sleeping Position
Babies should be placed on their backs every time they sleep, day or night. They should also be placed at the bottom end of the crib. Foot-to-foot of the crib. This prevents them from slipping under the bedding.
Not Too Hot
The baby’s room should not be too hot. If the baby is too hot, the risk of SIDS increases. Room temperature should be kept between 16-20°C. You can use a room thermometer to measure the temperature, and if your baby feels warm, remove a layer of bedding. It’s also worth noting that babies who are unwell need less than more bedding to help lower their temperature. Babies should also not sleep with a hat on, and cribs or Moses baskets should not be placed next to radiators.
Avoid Loose Bedding
Soft or bulky bedding, such as comforters and duvets, may cause the baby to overheat. Babies with loose bedding may squirm underneath the bedding and become too hot or entangled again. It is important that sheets and blankets are tucked firmly below shoulder height, or that a suitable sleeping bag is used. Babies should not sleep on pillows. Pillows increase the risk of SIDS by 2.5 times.
Tip – Use appropriate colourful crib sheets, light-coloured blankets, and patterned or coloured sleeping bags to spice up the room.
The Safest Crib Is a Clear Crib
Toys and cushions add a great touch of décor to the crib. If you leave them in the crib while the baby is sleeping, they may cover the baby’s head and increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Therefore, it is advisable to remove all toys and mats from the crib before going to bed.
Tip – Place a small storage basket next to the crib so that you can quickly put all the toys or mats in the crib.
The crib bumper or canopy in the crib also looks cute. However, once babies can move around the crib, they are at greater risk of getting tangled in the bumper or material. They may also use the bumper to pull themselves up, creating a greater risk of falling.
Tip – If you want to add a canopy to your room, make a small den or reading corner with a canopy and mats.
The Lullaby Trust can provide more information and support about SIDS.
Wishing you a safe and restful night’s sleep!