Top 8 Safe Sleep Tips
There is SO much information out there on best sleep practices. I am certified in safe sleep through Safe Sleep Academy and Cribs for Kids. Sifting through the opinions can feel overwhelming, so I have broken it down into a few crucial steps.
Here’s your go-to guide for safe infant sleep!
- Always Place Your Baby on Their Back
One of the most important sleep safety tips is to place your baby on its back for every sleep—naps and nighttime. Studies have shown that this position significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Avoid placing your baby on its stomach or side until it can roll over on its own.
2.Use a Firm Mattress and Fitted Sheet
Your baby’s sleep surface should be firm and covered with a tight-fitting crib sheet. Avoid using soft mattresses, cushions, or blankets, as they can create a suffocation hazard. The crib should meet current safety standards and have a flat surface that prevents your baby from sinking into it.
3. Keep the Crib Bare
Less is more when it comes to your baby’s crib. Remove pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, and bumper pads. These items can increase the risk of suffocation or entrapment. A fitted sheet is all you need in the crib with your baby. I know all the stuff is cute, but I promise you you won’t need it.
4. Share a Room, Not a Bed
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing (but not bed-sharing) for at least the first 6-12 months. Having your baby sleep in their crib or bassinet in the same room allows for easier nighttime feeding and monitoring while keeping them safe.
5. Dress Baby for the Right Temperature
Overheating is another risk factor for SIDS. Instead of using loose blankets, dress your baby in a sleep sack or wearable blanket. The room should be kept at a comfortable temperature for a lightly clothed adult. Feel your baby’s chest or back to keep an eye on their temperature—if they’re sweating or feel too warm, they may be overdressed. Grab my free infant dressing guide!
6. Avoid Using Sleep Positioners
Sleep positioners, wedges, or pillows designed to keep your baby in a specific position are unsafe for infant sleep. These products can pose a suffocation risk, and the AAP advises against using them. I know it can feel frustrating if your baby is suffering from reflux or torticollis but seeing a pediatrician or chiropractor to manage symptoms is much safer and provides a long term fix.
7. Offer a Pacifier
Giving your baby a pacifier at naptime and bedtime can help reduce the risk of SIDS. If your baby is breastfeeding, it’s a good idea to introduce the pacifier after breastfeeding is well established. If the pacifier falls out after your baby is asleep, there’s no need to put it back in their mouth.
8. Make Safe Sleep a Consistent Habit
Whether your baby is sleeping at home or visiting family, it’s crucial to maintain these safe sleep practices wherever your baby rests. To ensure consistency, share these guidelines with anyone who helps care for your baby.
