Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths are rare, but simple steps greatly lower the risk. These recommendations come from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
The ABCs of safe sleep
- Alone: your baby sleeps in their own space, such as a cot or bassinet, not in your bed or on a sofa.
- Back: always put your baby on their back to sleep, for naps and at night, until their first birthday.
- Cot: use a firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet and nothing else: no pillows, bumpers, blankets or soft toys.
More ways to lower the risk
- Share a room with your baby, but not a bed, ideally for at least the first 6 months.
- Breastfeed if you can: it is linked to a lower risk of SIDS.
- Offer a dummy (pacifier) at sleep time once breastfeeding is established.
- Keep your baby away from smoke, during pregnancy and after birth.
- Avoid overheating: dress your baby in light layers and keep their head uncovered.
- Do not use inclined sleepers, car seats or swings for routine sleep.
- Keep up with vaccinations.
When your baby rolls
Keep putting your baby down on their back. Once they can roll both ways on their own, you can let them stay in the position they choose. Stop swaddling once your baby shows signs of trying to roll.
Tummy time
Supervised tummy time while your baby is awake helps build strength and prevents flat spots on the head.
Plan naps and bedtime with our Baby Sleep Calculator.