The UK’s EYFS infant sleep product rules are changing this September 2026, and every parent, childminder and caregiver needs to know what’s different.

From cots and blankets to mattresses and supervision requirements, new mandatory standards are aiming to further reduce the risk of sudden infant death, as sadly, there are still cases of children dying from unsafe sleep practices.

All early years providers are required to meet the safer sleep requirements set out in the EYFS statutory framework which currently links to the NHS safer sleep guidance. The EYFS are planning to update the wording in the EYFS framework so the requirements are set out directly in the framework itself and the requirements can be seen without having to link out to another place. This is due to come into effect from September 2026, subject to parliamentary and legislative process.

What are the proposed changes?

The proposed new wording to the EYFS states:

Babies and children must be placed down to sleep safely. For children under 2 years old, providers must ensure that:

• Children are placed down on their back in their own separate sleep space on a firm flat surface such as a cot, bed or mattress on the floor. Babies aged 12 months and under must only be placed to sleep in a cot. (Cots refer to: Cots, carrycots, moses baskets, travel cots. Providers may find it useful to refer to the British Safety Standards)
• Sleep spaces should only contain a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight bedding which is firmly tucked in around the child below their shoulders to prevent head covering. Alternatively, a well fitted baby sleep bag may be used. Check the manufacturer recommendations before using a baby sleep bag.
• Where blankets are used, the baby is placed feet-to-foot at the bottom of the cot, with blankets tucked in.
• Cots must not contain extra items such as toys, pillows, extra blankets, bumpers, wedges or straps.
• Children should not get too hot or cold. The recommended room temperature for babies is 16 – 20˚C.
• Children’s heads are not covered.
• Babies under six months of age must always have an adult with them in the same room for every sleep. All children must be frequently checked when sleeping.
• Children are always within sight and hearing of staff when sleeping.

For a full list of frequently asked questions regarding these bullet points please read here

Practitioners must read NHS advice on Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) – NHS. More information on safer sleep guidance is available from The Lullaby Trust.

Share it with every parent-to-be

How to help an infant.

If a baby in your care were to choke read our latest blog here on how to deal with a choking infant in accordance with the new 2025 guidance. You can watch our video on using the two thumb encircling method.

If a baby in your care suffers a febrile seizure read our blog here on how to help them. Again a great video that demonstrates what you can do immediately as a carer or parent.

Source: https://help-for-early-years-providers.education.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/safer-sleep