A good way to think of safe sleep habits is as easy as A, B, C. A = alone, B = backs and C = crib.
Babies sleep alone on their backs until they are at least 1 year old and in the crib.
Even when your baby is sound asleep, there are serious health risks that are life threatening. Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) can happen to otherwise healthy babies. There are many steps you can take to lower the risk and put your mind at ease.
Here are seven newborn safety tips to use at naptime and at night:
- Let your baby sleep alone, but in the same room as you. Sleeping with you in a bed, sofa, or recliner chair can risk harm of injury or death.
- Place your baby on their back in the crib, bassinetor playpen. This can stop accidents, like suffocating, before they happen.
- Tummy time should only happen during the day when your baby is awake to build muscles. Make sure you stay with your baby during tummy time.
- Don’t fix your baby’s bed with pillows, toys, or soft bedding that can cover or hurt their face. A firm mattress and good pajamas are all your baby needs.
- Pacifiers are helpful for breathing. It’s best not to use those that attach with a string or a clip to avoid choking. If the pacifier falls out during your baby’s sleep, you don’t have to worry about making sure it gets back into their mouth.
- Keep the room cool and comfortable. Your baby shouldn’t get too warm when they sleep.
- Avoid using loose blankets, and put your baby in a sleep sack to keep them warm.
Learn more and watch a how-to video to help your baby sleep safely.
Find out what studies show on SIDS to know the risks.