Safe Sleeping

We notice that there are still many questions regarding safe sleeping for babies. The advice has changed significantly across different generations. We, at Milk Bar, consider safety to be our top priority, which is why we briefly explain the current guidelines regarding safe sleeping.

1. I lay my baby on their back

On the sleeping on your back is the safest for your baby. If your baby cannot turn over by themselves yet, sleeping on their side or stomach is dangerous. Even with a ventilating mattress, sleeping on the back is the safest. 

Once your baby can easily roll from tummy to back, tummy sleeping is okay.

2. My baby sleeps in his own crib or bassinet

Although it is tempting to bring your baby into bed with you during a difficult night, this is not safe.

There are several dangerous situations possible if your baby sleeps in bed with you: he/she can get stuck, he/she can overheat from the duvet, you might roll onto him/her, he/she can roll with his/her face into the pillow and therefore have difficulty breathing.

The mattress of the crib or bassinet must be sturdy, fit well (no space between the mattress and the crib).

However, it is recommended to let your baby sleep in a crib or bassinet next to your bed for the first 6 months.

3. Sleeping in a sleeping bag

A sleeping bag is all your baby needs to sleep safely and well. Your baby's head cannot get under the bedding this way.

A in-baker-sleeping-bag is a good idea as long as your baby cannot roll over yet, after that a regular sleeping bag is recommended. These are available for every season. The TOG value The sleeping bag indicates how warm the sleeping bag is (the higher the value, the warmer).

A sleeping bag has even more advantages: Your baby cannot become uncovered, and they cannot easily climb out of bed.

Babies who are used to sleeping in a sleeping bag often quickly realize that it's bedtime when you put on the sleeping bag. After some resistance, they become calm.

4. My baby sleeps in an empty crib

No cushions, no cuddles, no blankets, no baby nests or bed bumpers. A small cuddle cloth is fine. 

5. Safety first: a few more tips

• Do not smoke in the room or near your baby.
• Ventilate the nursery every day.
• Do not place the crib next to the heater.
• Be careful with medication if you are breastfeeding.
• A pacifier is a good idea: babies are less likely to lie with their nose and mouth on the mattress, sucking keeps the airways clear. Gradually reduce the pacifier from 10 months.

Info: guidelines regarding safe sleeping and cot death safety NL, Child and Family Belgium