Safe sleep 101: setting up a nursery the right way
Room temperature, crib setup and monitor placement, explained simply.
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A safe nursery is mostly about what you leave out. Follow your pediatrician’s advice first; these are the basics our editors check in every room setup.
The crib
- Firm, flat mattress that fits snugly
- Fitted sheet only: no pillows, bumpers or toys
- Baby on their back for every sleep
The room
- Keep the room comfortably cool, around 68–72°F (20–22°C)
- Use blackout curtains and a soft night light for feeds
Monitor placement
Mount the camera and all cords at least 3 feet from the crib. See our tested baby monitors for models with wall mounts and cord covers.


