Pillows and duvets

Don't use pillows and duvets – they are not safe for babies who are less than a year old because of the risk of suffocation. Duvets can also make your baby too hot.

Sheets and layers of blankets tucked in firmly below your baby's shoulder level or a baby sleeping bag are safe for your baby to sleep in.

Cot safety

Your baby will spend many hours in a cot, so make sure it's safe. If you're buying a new cot, look for the British Standard mark BS EN 716-1.

• The mattress must fit snugly, with no space for the baby's head to get stuck.
• The bars must be smooth, securely fixed, and the distance between each bar should be not less than 25mm (1 inch) and not more than 60mm (2.5 inches), so your baby's head can't get trapped.
• The cot should be sturdy.
• The moving parts should work smoothly and not allow fingers or clothing to get trapped.
• Cot bumpers are not recommended as babies can overheat or get tangled in the fastenings.
• Never leave anything with ties, such as bibs or clothes, in the cot as they might get caught around your baby's neck.
• The safest place for your baby to sleep is on their back in a cot in the same room as you for the first six months.

For more information on safe sleeping, see Reducing the risk of SIDSYou can also visit the Lullaby Trust website, which has lots of information on safe sleeping