Guest post by Jennifer Walker, RN, BSN and Laura Hunter, LPN, pediatric experts and Co-Founders of Moms on Call.

Creating a safe and consistent sleep environment for your baby is one of the best ways to support their well-being. Restful sleep provides the foundation for healthy development and helps establish a dependable routine for the whole family.

To help you create a safe sleep environment for a restful new year, the pediatric experts at Moms on Call have put together their top tips and recommendations.

 

Tips for a Restful New Year

Lay your baby on their back for sleep.

The safest position for your baby to sleep is on their back until they are safely rolling over on their own.

Use a firm and flat sleep surface. 

Ensure your baby sleeps on a firm and flat surface, such as a crib, bassinet or portable crib, that meets current safety standards. Your baby's crib should be less than five years old and free of any loose or broken parts. 

Use a firm and tight-fitting mattress. When using a portable crib or play yard, only use the mattress that comes with it. 

Ensure the crib is free of all stimulation. 

Avoid any loose bedding and make sure you have a snug-fitting sheet. There should not be any pillows, stuffed animals, loose blankets or toys (including mobiles) in or near the crib. 

That cute mobile can be hung over the dresser, and the perfectly chosen pillows, stuffed animals, and blankets can be placed on the floor or in a decorative basket. 

If you choose to have a crib bumper, we recommend a thin mesh breathable bumper. 

Establish a consistent routine. 

Consistency provides a sense of security, supports healthy sleep habits, and helps create smoother days for everyone.

Moms on Call has created schedules by age to guide parents in building a predictable daily rhythm for their baby specific to their age. Find the Typical Day Schedules in the Moms on Call’s books, online courses, and app to begin establishing a routine. 

Add a white noise machine.

White noise is reminiscent of the noise babies hear inside the womb. Place the white noise machine 12-24 inches from the head of the crib and keep it on all night long, turned up loud enough for you to hear on the other side of the door. 

Swaddle safely and correctly.

Swaddling is only for infants who are under 12 weeks of age, 12 pounds and/or are not rolling. Infants who are older than 12 weeks of age, weigh more than 12 pounds and/or are showing signs of rolling should not be swaddled.

Swaddling can help your baby feel secure and calm, but it's important to do it correctly. Only use non-weighted swaddles and avoid any type of weighted swaddle or sleep sack. We recommend the Moms on Call Swaddle  and swaddle technique, which provide the essential elements for safe and comfortable rest. 

The best time to remove the swaddle is between 10 to 12 weeks of age.

Struggling with dropping the swaddle? A Moms on Call Consultant can help you create a plan and walk it out with you as you navigate this transition.

Maintain a cool temperature in the room for safe sleep.

Babies sleep best in cool temperatures. We recommend 68-72ºF. 

Stick to safe sleep practices for naps as well as nighttime.

Safe sleep guidelines are just as important for naps as they are for nighttime sleep.

Not all products are intended for infant sleep. Some baby products, such as loungers, sleepers and nappers, are not intended for infant sleep and can pose a risk to your baby's safety.

By focusing on these tips for a restful new year, you’re helping your little one build a strong foundation for safe and restful sleep. At Moms on Call, we’re dedicated to supporting families like yours in creating consistent routines that encourage healthy sleep habits now and into the future.

Need More Help? 

Building a solid foundation for your baby’s sleep can feel overwhelming at times. If you're unsure where to begin or need tailored advice, Moms on Call is here to help. Check out our books, online courses, and app for proven sleep strategies, daily schedules by age, feeding guidelines, and common illness management.  For personalized support, book a consultation with one of our Certified Consultants. Our Consultants are pediatric nurses and parents themselves, who will provide you with one-on-one guidance tailored to your family’s needs to set the entire house up for success. With the right strategies and support, your family can achieve restful nights and brighter days. You've got this, and we’re here to help every step of the way!

 

Use code DNB20 for 20% off any products  at momsoncall.com.

Excludes consulting services.