Safe Sleep for Infants

While the first year of your baby’s life is full of joy, it can also bring understandable anxiety—especially around sleep. Creating a safe sleep environment can help ease some of that stress and give parents greater peace of mind. Safe sleep practices are essential not only for reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), but also for supporting healthy growth and development. Below are evidence-based recommendations to help keep your baby safe and well-rested.

1. Choose Safe, Approved Sleep Equipment

Before your baby comes home, make sure you have a crib, bassinet, or play yard that meets current safety standards and includes a firm, properly fitting mattress. You can verify approved products and check for recalls at saferproducts.gov and cpsc.gov. Because product safety statuses can change, it’s important to stay informed and up to date.

2. Babies Should Sleep Independently

Room-sharing is recommended, but bed-sharing is not. Co-sleeping significantly increases the risk of injury and suffocation. A bedside bassinet is a great option for nighttime feedings or diaper changes, allowing you to keep your baby close while maintaining a safe sleep space. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first six months. After that, families may choose to transition their baby to a crib in a separate nursery when they feel ready.

3. Always Place Baby on Their Back

For the first year of life, infants should be placed alone, on their back, and face up for every sleep. Once your baby can independently roll from belly to back while awake, it is okay if they roll onto their side or stomach during sleep. You may gently reposition them onto their back if needed.

4. Use Approved Sleep Spaces Only

Babies should sleep only in a crib, bassinet, or play yard. Swings, bouncers, and similar devices are not safe for sleep, as they increase the risk of suffocation due to head and neck positioning. While babies may fall asleep in a car seat or stroller, they should be moved to a safe sleep surface as soon as it is practical to do so.

5. Keep the Sleep Space Clear

A firm mattress with a fitted sheet is recommended. The sleep space should be completely free of toys, blankets, pillows, bumpers, or positioners. Infants cannot move objects away from their face, and extra items increase the risk of suffocation. The safest sleep environment contains only your baby.

6. Swaddling and Sleepwear

Swaddling can help newborns feel secure and reduce the startle reflex, promoting more restful sleep. Once babies begin showing signs of rolling—typically between 2 and 4 months—they should no longer be swaddled. At this stage, families may choose to use footed pajamas or a properly fitted sleep sack. Sleep sacks should never be weighted, must allow free arm movement, and should follow manufacturer sizing guidelines. Avoid overheating, as it is associated with an increased risk of SIDS.

7. Watch for Head or Neck Positioning Concerns

If you notice your baby consistently turning their head to one side while sleeping, this may indicate neck tightness (torticollis) or the development of a flat spot on the head (plagiocephaly). Early evaluation and treatment are important, so discuss any concerns with your pediatrician or a physical therapist.