Safe Sleep Myths Busted: What Every Parent Needs to Know

When you become a parent, everyone (yes, everyone) has an opinion on baby sleep. It’s overwhelming, and not all of it is accurate. As a GP and baby sleep consultant, I’m here to bust some common safe sleep myths so you can rest easy knowing your little one is safe.

Myth 1: “Babies sleep better on their tummies.”

The reality: The safest position for your baby is on their back—every sleep, every time. Research shows that placing babies on their backs significantly reduces the risk of SIDS.

This recommendation comes from extensive studies and is supported by the Lullaby Trust and NHS. Tummy sleeping can increase the risk of suffocation, especially for babies who can’t yet roll independently. Even if your baby seems to settle better on their tummy, the risk simply isn’t worth it.

(If your baby rolls onto their tummy after being placed on their back, don’t worry—as long as they can roll both ways, it’s okay.)

Myth 2: “It’s okay to use pillows and blankets in the cot.”

The reality: Soft bedding, pillows, and loose blankets increase the risk of suffocation and overheating. A firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet is all your baby needs.

Many parents worry their baby will be too cold, but sleeping bags are a brilliant alternative. They keep babies warm without the risk of covering their face or head. Avoid cot bumpers too—they may look pretty, but they pose a serious risk of entrapment and suffocation.

(If you’re worried about warmth, layer up with appropriate TOG-rated sleeping bags and check your baby’s chest to gauge their temperature.)

Myth 3: “Co-sleeping is always unsafe.”

The reality: Co-sleeping is common and normal. Some parents choose to co-sleep from the start, while others do it out of necessity to get some much-needed rest. As long as it’s done safely, do what works best for your family.

The Lullaby Trust provides clear guidelines:

• Never co-sleep on a sofa or armchair—this significantly increases the risk of SIDS.

• Make sure the mattress is firm and flat, with no pillows or duvets near the baby.

• Avoid co-sleeping if you or your partner smoke, have consumed alcohol, taken medication that makes you drowsy, or are extremely tired.

(There’s no judgment here—if co-sleeping helps your family get more sleep and you’re following safe guidelines, you’re doing great.)

Myth 4: “Breastfeeding prevents SIDS entirely.”

The reality: Breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS, but it doesn’t eliminate it. All safe sleep guidelines should still be followed, whether you breastfeed or formula-feed.

Breastfeeding for at least two months has been shown to halve the risk of SIDS, but it’s not a magic solution. And let’s be clear—if breastfeeding isn’t the right choice for you, that’s okay. Your baby can still be perfectly safe, happy, and well-rested.

(Fed is best, and no parent should feel pressured to breastfeed if it’s not the right choice for their family.)

Myth 5: “If my baby rolls over, I need to roll them back.”

The reality: Once your baby can roll both ways independently, you don’t need to reposition them. Always place them on their back to start, but if they roll during sleep, it’s okay.

It’s natural to worry when your baby starts rolling—cue endless video monitor checks—but remember that rolling is a normal developmental milestone. The key is to ensure your baby’s sleep environment is safe: no loose bedding, toys, or bumpers.

(Some babies are late to roll, and that’s normal too! My baby didn’t roll until 10.5 months. As long as there are no other developmental concerns, it’s likely fine—but always speak to your health visitor if you’re worried.)

Myth 6: “The room needs to be silent and pitch black.”

The reality: A dark room and white noise help, but absolute silence isn’t necessary. White noise can actually be beneficial, masking household sounds and creating a consistent sleep environment.

Blackout blinds are a lifesaver for naps and early mornings (I swear by ones with a seal to block every sliver of light). White noise machines mimic the sounds of the womb for newborns and mask external noises for older babies—but keep the volume below 60dB and run it all night for consistency.

(And no, you don’t need to tiptoe around the house during nap time—your baby will adjust to everyday sounds.)

Other Safe Sleep Tips to Remember:

• Room share for the first six months: Your baby should sleep in the same room as you for all sleeps, day and night.

• Keep the room temperature between 16-20°C: Use a baby monitor with a thermometer for peace of mind.

• Avoid products that aren’t sleep-safe: Sleep positioners, wedges, and inclined sleepers are often marketed as “helpful” but can be dangerous.

Final Thoughts

There’s so much advice out there, but safe sleep doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to evidence-based guidelines, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. As a GP, safe sleep is a top priority for me, and I’m here to support you through the sleepless nights and beyond.

Need support with your baby’s sleep? Let’s chat! Book a consultation at www.thegoodsleepclub.co.uk or DM me on Instagram @the_goodsleepclub.