Newborn, Sleep

Let’s talk about infant sleep pods & nests

Products like the Cocoonababy (and similar infant sleep pods/nests) have become popular over recent years. However, in Australia there are currently no Mandatory Safe Sleep Standards for these types of products.

When considering any baby product, it’s important to ask yourself:

✨ Does it allow my baby to sleep on their back on a flat, firm surface?
✨ Is there any risk of baby’s chin dropping toward their chest (“chin-on-chest” position)?
✨ Can my baby sleep with their head and face uncovered?

Safe sleep matters. Red Nose advises that the safest place for baby to sleep is in a cot that meets Mandatory Australian Standards, with a firm, clean, well-fitting and flat mattress.

Many products on the market do not provide a truly flat or firm surface. When babies sleep in propped or inclined devices, their head can fall forward, bringing the chin down toward the chest — which may reduce airflow and potentially compromise the airway.

Portable sleep surfaces and positioning products also do not currently have Mandatory Australian Standards for safe infant sleep in Australia.

✔️ The safest sleep position for baby is on their back, lying flat.
✔️ Babies’ swallowing and arousal responses work most effectively when they are flat.
✔️ Red Nose does not recommend restraining a baby in one position during sleep.

As always, our goal at Parents2B is to provide education so families can make informed choices. If you’re unsure about a product, speak with a trusted health professional and refer to Red Nose safe sleep guidance.

🔗 Learn more:
https://rednose.org.au/article/what-is-a-safe-cot