A musical comforter is part of the wind-down, not part of the cot. Here is how we recommend using yours safely at every age.

Our position: comforters in the cot from 12 months

Australian and US guidance differs slightly. Red Nose Australia advises keeping soft toys out of the sleep space until at least 7 months. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping all soft objects out of the sleep space for the first 12 months.

Love By Emi recommends the more cautious of the two: keep your comforter out of the cot until your little one is 12 months old.

Under 12 months: how to use it

• Supervised cuddles only. Use the comforter during feeds, story time and wind-down while you are with your bub.
• Sound without the toy. The music box is removable. Take it out and place it on a shelf or dresser out of reach of the cot, so your newborn still hears the same white noise or lullaby while the sleep space stays clear.
• Same sound, every time. Repetition is what builds the association. Use the same sound and the same timer at every sleep.
• Clear the cot before you leave the room: no toys, pillows, bumpers or loose bedding.

From 12 months

• Your toddler can keep their comforter in the cot overnight.
• Check seams, the zip and the music box compartment regularly. Stop using it if anything is damaged.
• Keep spare batteries stored away from little hands.

The Red Nose safe sleep recommendations

1. Sleep baby on their back.
2. Keep head and face uncovered.
3. Keep baby smoke free, before and after birth.
4. Provide a safe sleeping environment, night and day.
5. Sleep baby in their own safe sleep space in the same room as an adult caregiver for the first 6 to 12 months.
6. Breastfeed baby.

For full guidance, visit Red Nose Australia or the AAP's safe sleep guide.

Questions?

Read our FAQ or email us at help@lovebyemi.com. This page is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your child health nurse or GP about your little one's sleep.