How do I reduce the risk of SIDS?
Short answer: Back to sleep, a clear cot, a firm flat waterproof mattress, a smoke-free home, not too hot, and room sharing for at least the first 6 months. These are the core NHS and Lullaby Trust steps.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- Check the mattress size listed for the frame. 140 x 70cm is common, but not universal.
- Keep every conversion panel, bolt and instruction sheet for the toddler-bed stage.
- Look at adjustable base heights, teething rails and any matching furniture.
What the guidance says
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep, in the feet-to-foot position (feet at the bottom of the cot, Moses basket or pram).
- Keep the cot clear: no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, loose blankets, soft toys, pods, nests, wedges or anything to keep your baby in place.
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition, with no raised or cushioned edges, that fits the cot or Moses basket with no gaps.
- Keep your baby smoke-free, in pregnancy and afterwards. Do not let anyone smoke in the same room as your baby.
- Keep the room between about 16C and 20C and check it with a room thermometer.
- The NHS advises placing your baby in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for every sleep, day and night, for at least the first 6 months.
Related questions
What is a cot bed?
A cot with removable sides and ends that converts into a toddler bed, most often taking a 140 x 70cm mattress.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Vox Spot Cot Bed in White & Acacia
- Nika Cot Bed - Aspen
- Nika Cot Bed - Grey Wash & White
- Obaby Grace Mini Cot Bed in White
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
What mattress does a crib need?How do I choose a cot?Can an 11 month old sleep on their tummy?Flat head and tummy time quizReflux and positioning quizSleep position quizAll safe sleep and sleep spaces advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.