Newborn, Sleep

Can babies have blankets in the cot? Let’s talk safe sleep… 🤍

Many parents believe blankets are never “allowed” in a cot — often thinking this comes from Red Nose guidance.

The truth is a little more nuanced. Safe sleep is about how bedding is used, not just whether it’s used.

✨ Key Red Nose safe sleep points to consider:

• Dress your baby in layers as you would yourself — comfortable, not too hot or too cold.
• Always place baby on their back to sleep with their head and face uncovered.
• Make up the cot so baby sleeps at the bottom, with blankets tucked firmly under the mattress and only reaching chest height.
• Lightweight layers are best, so you can easily add or remove bedding depending on the temperature.
• Remove hats, beanies, bonnets or hooded clothing indoors and during sleep.
• A safe baby sleeping bag (fitted neck and armholes, no hood) can be a great alternative.

There isn’t an exact number of blankets recommended. Instead, consider:
✔️ The room temperature
✔️ How warm baby feels (check their back or tummy, not hands and feet)
✔️ Illness or individual needs
✔️ The total number of layers being used

Once your baby starts rolling from back to belly, it’s time to remove blankets and transition to a safe sleeping bag.

The Red Nose Safe Sleeping program is based on strong scientific evidence developed by Australian SUDI researchers, paediatricians and child health experts — contributing to a significant reduction in sudden unexpected infant deaths. The 85% drop in SUDI deaths and the 9,967 lives that have been saved is testament to the effectiveness of the program.

For more safe sleep guidance visit Red Nose or call 1300 998 698

Suggested citation: Red Nose. National Scientific Advisory Group (NSAG). (2016). Information Statement: Bedding amount recommended for safe sleep. Melbourne: Red Nose.

* The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Parents2b and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.