Safe Sleep

Always lay down your baby on their back for sleep

Laying babies on their backs helps to reduce the risk of SIDS. Once your baby has learned to roll from the back to the stomach, it is okay to let them sleep on their stomach (if they rolled into that position on their own). A baby that has not learned to roll, and therefore has limited mobility, is more likely to rebreathe exhaled air. Rebreathing exhaled air is lower in oxygen and higher in carbon dioxide (which the body makes as a byproduct of turning oxygen into energy). This can be dangerous for babies who are unable to reposition their bodies easily. Laying a baby down on their stomach can also lead to overheating. A baby placed on their stomach for sleep may have a more difficult time releasing excess body heat, as they might not be able to move out of the position on their own.

What if they spit up?

A healthy baby should be able to turn the head to the side, allowing for spit-up or vomit to escape down the side of the mouth.

Put your baby on a firm flat surface

A firm, flat mattress prevents babies from sinking into the surface, which can lead to an obstructed airway and suffocation. A firm and flat sleep surface also helps prevent a baby from becoming trapped in a position that can compromise the airway.

Co-sleeping on the same bed or mattress is not recommended

Co-sleeping (sleeping with your baby) on the same sleep surface like a bed or mattress can lead to accidental smothering, suffocation, overlaying, and entrapment. Co-sleeping on the same sleep surface also puts your baby at higher risk for SIDS.

The AAP recommends having your baby sleep in the same room, but in its crib, bassinet, or pack 'n' play, for the first 6 months to a year. This makes it easier for you to be alert to your baby’s needs and cuts the risk of SIDS.

No bedding and stuffies

Avoid any items on your baby’s sleep surface until at least 1 year of age. This includes pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals. These items in your baby’s crib, bassinet, or pack 'n' play can lead to suffocation and increased risk of SIDS.

What if they get cold?

Instead of using blankets, you can try wearable blankets like sleep sacks, and adding layers of clothing for warmth. Make sure to adjust what your baby wears to sleep depending on the time of year and temperature of the room. A good rule of thumb is to have your baby wear one more layer of clothing than you would wear in the same room.

Always contact a health professional with any medical concerns and follow any instructions provided by your child’s pediatrician.