Safe Sleep: How to Create the Ideal Sleep Environment for Your Baby
What actually counts as a safe sleep environment for newborns? We summarize the recommendations for you simply and clearly.
Written by Sepehr Asemann on May 28, 2025
Categories: Baby sleep, Sleeping bag, SIDS prevention, Baby crib, Parenting guide, Wetterbaby, Babywetter
Restful sleep isn't just important for babies — it's vital. At the same time, many parents are unsure how to design their child's sleep environment safely and healthily. The German Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA) provides clear, scientifically based recommendations so infants sleep safely and well. We've summarized them for you here.
Why the Sleep Environment Matters So Much
In the first months of life, the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is highest. Studies show: an optimal sleep environment can significantly reduce this risk. The point isn't to scare parents — it's to share practical, effective measures that really protect babies.
The 7 Most Important Recommendations for Safe Baby Sleep
Here are the BZgA's key points at a glance:
1. Always on the back!
Always put your baby on their back to sleep. Side or stomach positions are proven to be linked to a higher SIDS risk.
2. Sleep in the parents' room, but in their own bed
Your baby should sleep in the same room as you, but not in the parents' bed. A separate crib or bedside cot is safer. Closeness yes — but with a separate sleep space.
3. A firm, breathable mattress
Use a firm, well-fitting mattress without pillows, bumpers, or sheepskins. Soft surfaces increase the risk of overheating and rebreathing.
4. Sleeping bag instead of a blanket
A sleeping bag in the right size is better than a blanket or pillow. That way you avoid your baby pulling the blanket over their head or getting bundled up too warm.
5. A smoke-free environment, in every room
Smoking is the biggest risk factor for SIDS. Make sure your baby grows up in a consistently smoke-free environment — and during pregnancy too.
6. No overheating
The bedroom temperature should be between 16–18 °C. Avoid hats, hot water bottles, or clothing that's too thick during sleep. Overheating can be dangerous.
7. Breastfeeding protects
Breastfeeding has been demonstrably protective against SIDS. If possible, breastfeed your baby and maintain a safe sleep environment, including during nighttime feedings.
How Wetterbaby Can Help
Weather plays a role when it comes to sleep too (e.g. choosing the right sleeping bag or room temperature). The Wetterbaby app gives you recommendations for your baby's ideal clothing at night too. We pay attention to:
- Recommendations for room temperature
- Tips on the right layering (bodysuit + sleeping bag, etc.)
In the future, we want to recommend sustainable, tested sleeping bags directly within the app — practically integrated into the everyday life of new parents.
Conclusion
A safe sleep environment is simple, but crucial. If you let your baby sleep on their back, keep the space smoke-free, avoid overheating, and choose a suitable sleeping bag, you've already done a lot. Wetterbaby is there to support you — practically and without overwhelming you.
Source:
BZgA – Sleep recommendations for babies: The right sleep environment for infants
