Do’s and Don’ts of Safe Sleep

By Dr. Sara Smith, PDC Pediatrics

Many parents, especially first-time moms and dads, worry about their baby’s safety during naps and bedtime.

Fortunately, pediatric health experts have determined the best safe sleep practices that parents and caregivers can follow to reduce the risk of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), which occurs before a baby’s first birthday. SUID includes sudden infant death syndrome, accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed, and other deaths from unknown causes.

Make sure to follow these do’s and don’ts to protect your baby.

Do’s

• Do follow the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, Back, Crib. All babies should sleep alone, on their backs, and in a crib.
• Do keep your baby in a crib or bassinet close to your bed for monitoring to reduce the risk of SUID.  Your baby should sleep in your room for six months to a year.
• Do breastfeed your baby if you’re able. Feeding only human milk for the first six months provides the greatest protection.
• Do give your baby a pacifier (without a string attached) at bedtime.
• Do use a firm sleep surface.
• Do dress your baby in light clothing or a wearable blanket for sleep. This helps prevent them from overheating.

Don’ts

• Don’t share a bed with your infant.
• Don’t use products marketed to reduce the risk of SUID. No products, including heart rate monitors and breathable mattresses, have been tested sufficiently to prove their safety or effectiveness.
• Don’t smoke or vape around your baby. Smoking and secondhand smoke put your baby at greater risk of SUID. Substances like alcohol, drugs, and medications can cause impairment.
• Don’t put anything in your baby’s crib, including pillows, toys, bedding, and soft objects.
• Don’t force an infant to use a pacifier or reinsert it once they’re asleep.
• Don’t let your baby sleep on a couch, adult bed, car seat, bouncer, or swing.

It’s important to know that low birth-weight babies and infants born prematurely may face a higher risk of SUID than full-term babies. Parents should consult their pediatrician for any questions or concerns.