Keeping your baby’s airway clear while they sleep
by Folk & Thread
When it comes to safer sleep, there’s one thing that matters above all else: keeping your baby’s airway clear. Their tiny breathing passages are delicate, and in certain positions, they can become blocked or narrowed—making it harder for them to breathe.
But don’t worry, safer sleep doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits, you can create a sleep space that helps protect your little one while giving you peace of mind.
Give your baby a clear space to sleep
Your baby’s sleep space should be free from anything that could cover their face or obstruct their breathing. That means:
- No loose blankets, pillows, or soft toys in their crib or Moses basket.
- No sleep pods, nests, or cushioned surfaces—these can cause a baby’s airway to fold or become blocked.
- A firm, flat mattress with just a fitted sheet is all they need.
Always place your baby on their back
Babies should always be placed on their back to sleep—for naps and night-time. It’s the safest sleep position and significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Sleeping on their tummy or side can make it harder for them to breathe, especially if their face is against a soft surface or they become wedged against an adult.
Use a firm, flat sleep surface
Babies need a firm, flat place to sleep—such as a crib, Moses basket, or cot.
- Avoid sloping or inclined surfaces. If a baby sleeps in a sitting position (such as in a car seat, bouncer, or stroller), their chin can fall to their chest, which may restrict their airway. If they do fall asleep in one of these, move them to a flat surface as soon as possible.
- If you're using a travel cot, make sure the base is completely flat and firm—not padded or uneven.
What to do if your baby falls asleep in a sitting position
Babies often doze off in car seats, bouncers, or slings, but these aren’t designed for routine sleep. If your baby falls asleep in a sitting position, move them to a flat, firm surface as soon as possible.
Look out for these signs that their airway could be restricted:
- Their chin is touching their chest
- Their breathing sounds noisy or strained
- Their colour changes or they seem unsettled
A firm, flat sleep surface helps keep their head and neck in a safe position, allowing them to breathe easily.
When it comes to your baby’s safety, the simplest sleep setup is often the safest. A clear, flat, firm sleep space with your baby on their back is all they need to sleep soundly and safely.
