Can Baby Sleep with a Bib On?  

Dressing your little one for bed is essential for a variety of reasons. It is important to promote healthy sleeping habits, encourage a better night’s sleep, keep them at the right temperature throughout the night, and ensure their safety.  

As new parents you learn quickly that children can make messes at any time of the day! That’s right, whether they are awake or asleep, they keep you on your toes by spitting up—from either end!  

Bibs and muslins are incredibly useful for various reasons; they can clear up messes and protect you and your little one’s clothing when feeding. Whilst your little one is awake; the right type of bib can be left on all day. One like these from Lulujo, their baby bibs are made from 100% cotton and are adjustable to fit any child, making them suitable to wear for a long period of time. Saying this, it is important and strongly advised that you do not leave a bib on your little one whilst they sleep. 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, also known as SIDS, is defined as the unexplained death of an infant less than 1 year old. SIDS is suspected when a healthy newborn between 0 and 12 months has passed away during the night without detecting any health issues or incidents before their passing. Data shows that SIDS is the most common cause of death in children under the age of 1 year.  

A combination of factors can make an infant vulnerable to SIDS, which can vary from child to child. Still, the main causes can include respiratory infection, low weight at birth, premature birth, overheating, sharing a bed with parents, sleeping on their front or side, unsafe or old crib, and so many more.  

You can help your baby prevent the risks of SIDS through several practices, including ensuring your little one sleeps on their back, avoid overheating (ensuring they are wearing the right materials to sleep, like cotton), and keeping your baby’s face clear of any coverings. This means not letting your baby sleep with their bib on during the night.  

Safe Sleep for Babies 

Ensuring that your baby is not wearing a bib throughout the night is just one way to keep your baby safe while sleeping. Regarding safe sleep for babies, the general rule of thumb is to follow your ABCs.

Alone. Back. Crib.

Identifying these practices before your baby drifts off into Dreamland will prevent any risk of SIDS. But what are the ABCs of safe sleep for babies?  

Alone: It is strongly advised that you leave your little one to sleep alone throughout the night. Not only is it safer, but it will help both you and your baby get a better nights’ sleep. Some parents choose to co-sleep with their child, but if you are going to do this, you must be aware of the risks and understand when you cannot co-sleep with your child. For more information about co-sleeping, check out the advice from the NHS on Safe Sleep.  

Back: Make sure that your baby sleeps on its back throughout the night. During the earlier months, parents tend to swaddle their children. If this relates to you, why not check out our blog on How to Swaddle a Newborn? Other parents might use swaddle sleeping bags to ensure their little ones keep their arms and legs tucked in and prevent them from being able to use their limbs to roll over throughout the night.  

Crib: The C is for Crib, and you should make sure that there is no loose bedding or anything that has the potential to cover your baby’s face throughout the night, including baby bibs. The only thing your baby should have in their crib is a firm mattress with a tight fitted sheet. They should be dressed according to the temperature in their nursery or room to avoid using blankets, bibs, or anything similar.  

Your Baby’s Safety is Priority

While bibs are ideal for managing messes during your baby’s waking hours, it is crucial to remove them before putting your baby to sleep. Ensuring your baby’s safety and minimising the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) involves following key practices: always place your baby to sleep on their back, keep their crib free from any potential hazards like loose bedding or bibs, and make sure they sleep alone in a safe, well-prepared crib environment. By adhering to these guidelines and being mindful of the ABCs of safe sleep—Alone, Back, Crib—you can create a safe and comfortable sleep space for your baby, promoting their well-being and giving you peace of mind throughout the night.