Safe sleep

Be informed — and rest easy

Likely the only time you'll leave your young child unattended is while he or she sleeps. The important thing is to make sure sleeping children are where they'll be safe and comfortable.

The safest place for an unsupervised baby to sleep is alone in a crib that meets current safety regulations. For the first six months, it is recommended you place your baby's crib in your bedroom.

Never put babies or young children to sleep in products that are not specifically designed for unattended sleep, such as sofas or adult beds. It is also not safe for babies to sleep for long periods of time in a seated position — for example, in a stroller or car seat. Sleeping babies' heads can fall forward and their airways can become constricted.

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Safe sleep tips

Here are some of the most important things for parents and caregivers to know about children's safety when sleeping.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Creating a safe sleep environment for your baby will help him or her sleep safely and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Cribs, cradles and bassinets

Babies spend a lot of time in their cribs, cradles, and bassinets. To make sure yours is safe to use, check Health Canada's Consumer Product Recalls to find out about products that have been recalled.

Bunk beds

Bunk beds are convenient and fun ways for kids to share a bedroom. To make sure your children enjoy their bunk safely, be clear with them about the "rules" of use, and check that the bed you own (or are thinking of buying) meets current safety standards.

Playpens

It is very important to make sure a playpen is assembled correctly before using it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions completely, as well as guidelines regarding the weight and age of child the playpen is made for.

Blind & curtain cord strangulation risk

Keep cords out of reach. Looped, long or inner blind and curtain cords can strangle or entangle your child.

Children’s sleepwear

Children's sleepwear sold in Canada must meet strict flammability requirements that improve safety.