Baby's airway is blocked.
Loose bedding or soft-sided pods and pillows can block your baby's airway.
Your baby’s airway is very delicate and it’s possible for it to become blocked, narrowed and or folded, making it difficult for them to breathe.
Some baby products and sleeping positions make this more likely, but there are steps you can take to keep their airways clear and open so they can breathe easily.
Your baby's airways can become blocked, narrowed or folded. This can make it difficult for them to breathe.
Loose bedding or soft-sided pods and pillows can block your baby's airway.
Your baby sleeping on their tummy or becoming wedged against an adult can block or narrow your baby's airway.
Sleeping in a sitting position or sling (causing your baby's chin to touch their chest) can fold your baby's airway.
Certain products and sleeping positions can cover your baby’s face, block their airways, or cause them to become folded or narrowed. These include:
Let’s look at each of these in more detail.
There are lots of products available for babies to sit in and sleep in but some are not the safest options for sleep because they don’t protect your baby’s airway.
Don’t use the following for sleep:
If your baby falls asleep in products like the ones shown below, move them onto a firm, flat, clear space, such as a cot or Moses basket.
It is also important to keep your baby’s airway clear when using a sling or car seat.
Babies’ bodies are different to adults. Their airways are much more delicate and their heads are heavier, so their heads can flop forwards and restrict their breathing. If their noses and mouths get covered by toys or bedding, or even press against soft surfaces, the air can’t flow and their breathing can be impaired. This means it’s important to take steps to keep their airways open and clear. Sleep them on their backs on a clear, flat, firm surface, so you can be confident that your baby can breathe easily.
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