Sleep is so important to a growing baby. But as new parents, you want to be sure that your baby is sleeping soundly … and safely.
The American Academy of Pediatrics supports the Safe to Sleep actions that parents and caregivers can take to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome – or SIDS – and other sleep-related cause of death.
ALWAYS
- Place your baby to sleep on his or her back at naptime and at night time.
- Use a crib that meets current safety standards, with a firm mattress that fits snugly and is covered with only a tight-fitting crib sheet.
- Remove all soft bedding and toys from your baby's sleep area. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests using a wearable blanket instead of loose blankets to keep your baby warm.
- Breastfeed your baby, if possible. After each breastfeeding session, put your baby back to sleep in his or her own sleep area.
- You may offer a pacifier when putting your baby to sleep. If you are breastfeeding, introduce the pacifier after one month or once breastfeeding has been established.
What does a safe sleep environment look like?
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NEVER
- Never put your baby to sleep on any soft surface, including your bed, sofas, chairs, water beds, on quilts, sheet skins, etc.
- Never dress your baby too warmly for sleep – keep the room temperature at approximately 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid overheating.
- Never use sleep wedges or positioners to prop your baby up or to keep him or her on his back.
- Never allow anyone to smoke around your baby or to take your baby into a room or a car where someone has recently been smoking.
