Safe Sleep

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), close to 3,500 babies die suddenly every year, in what is referred to as Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). About half of these deaths are because of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

SIDS causes sudden infant deaths for unknown reasons. Babies who are less than a year old are at high risk for SIDS, particularly from birth until four years old.

Use wearable, warm clothing instead of blankets that can cover the babyʼs head. Always leave the babyʼs head uncovered while sleeping.

In 1992, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advised parents to place their babies on their backs when sleeping to reduce the risk of SIDS. Since then, the incidences of SIDS-related deaths have gone down in the United States.

Babies dying due to other reasons in sleep such as getting caught in some clothing, not being able
to breathe during sleep, or choking are still reported. To prevent the risk of such deaths, the AAP has made several recommendations to create a sleeping environment that is safe.

One of the most important recommendations made by AAP is to make your baby sleep near your bed,

as close as possible, on a separate sleep surface that is designed specifically for babies. It is important for parents to follow the other recommendations from AAP to avoid SIDS or SUID.

IT MIGHT NOT BE PRETTY. BUT IT CAN BE PEACEFUL.

Getting sleep with a newborn is not easy. But when babies are put to bed in their own, clutter-free space, it’s safer for them and offers peace of mind for you.

• Whether it is nap time or nighttime, always place the baby on their back.
• Always place the baby on a firm surface to sleep. Do not use car seats or other seats for the babyʼs regular nighttime sleep.
• Donʼt fall asleep while breastfeeding. Avoid feeding on a soft surface or cushioning that could increase the risk of you falling asleep. The baby could choke on the breast milk when unattended. Remember to carry the baby back to the crib or sleep cot when done feeding.
• Babies can get caught in loose bedding
or soft objects. Pillows, blankets, and bumper pads in the crib or bassinet can
be dangerous to the baby. The bumper pads or blankets can tangle up the baby and lead to suffocation. The baby could also choke on the soft pillows. Use firm but comfortable bedding on the crib or cot with no loose items.
• Sleep positioners that are supposed to hold a baby in one position can result in babies struggling to breathe while asleep and can cause SIDS. AAP advises parents not to use these sleep positioners or wedges for babies.
• Smoking near a baby can be dangerous. The smoke can be inhaled by the baby and cause choking. Avoid smoking near babies.
• AAP advises parents not to use drugs or alcohol.
• Using a pacifier can be helpful during bedtime or nap time. AAP advises mothers to wait until the baby finishes breastfeeding before introducing the pacifier and to not force the baby to use it. AAP also advises not to add sweet substances onto the pacifier or to put it back in the babyʼs mouth when it falls out. It is recommended to regularly check and clean the pacifier before putting it in the babyʼs mouth.
• Using heart monitors on babies at home is not recommended to prevent SIDS.
• Use wearable, warm clothing instead of blankets that can cover the babyʼs head. Always leave the babyʼs head uncovered while sleeping.
• Adjust the temperature of the room according to your comfort level, and do not overheat the room for the baby. Dressing the baby in an amount of clothing that you would wear is recommended rather than bundling up the baby in too many layers.
• Immunizations and regular well-baby checks. These can reduce SIDS risk by up to 50 percent.