Safety
Safe Sleep & SIDS Prevention
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is unexplained death of baby under 1 year, usually during sleep. Peak risk: 2-4 months.
ABC's of safe sleep: Alone, on Back, in Crib.
- Alone: No blankets, pillows, toys, bumpers in crib
- Back: Always place baby on back for every sleep
- Crib: Firm mattress with fitted sheet only
Room-sharing (not bed-sharing) reduces SIDS risk by 50%. Safe sleep reduces SIDS risk by 70%+.
What to Do
- Always place baby on BACK to sleep (never stomach or side) for every sleep
- Use firm, flat mattress with fitted sheet only - no blankets, pillows, toys, bumpers
- Room-share for first 6-12 months (baby in own crib/bassinet in your room)
- DO NOT bed-share (sleep in same bed) - increases SIDS risk 5-10x
- Keep room temperature comfortable (68-72°F) - overheating increases SIDS risk
- Dress baby in sleep sack or wearable blanket (no loose blankets)
- Offer pacifier at sleep time (after breastfeeding established) - reduces SIDS risk
- Breastfeed if possible - reduces SIDS risk
- Avoid smoke exposure - don't smoke during pregnancy or around baby (biggest risk factor)
- No alcohol or drugs when caring for baby or co-sleeping
- Once baby can roll: Still place on back, but OK if they roll themselves to stomach
- Stop swaddling when baby shows signs of rolling (usually 2-4 months)
When to call a doctor
Follow safe sleep guidelines for every sleep (naps and nighttime) until baby is 1 year old. SIDS can happen to any baby, but following guidelines dramatically reduces risk.