Safe Sleep for Infants
Learn how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby with guidance from Reid Health. Review the ABCs of infant safe sleep, safe crib practices, and tips to help reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths.
Safe sleep for infants
At Reid Health, we are committed to helping families create a safe sleep environment for infants. Following safe sleep guidelines can help reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths, including Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and accidental suffocation.
Infant deaths related to unsafe sleep practices are preventable. Understanding and following safe sleep recommendations can help protect your baby during every sleep — naps and nighttime.
Know the ABCs of safe infant sleep
A: Alone
Babies should always sleep alone.
Your baby should sleep:
- In their own crib, bassinet, or portable play yard
- Without blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or crib bumpers
- Without sharing a bed, couch, or chair with adults, children, or pets
Room sharing is recommended, but bed sharing is not.
B: On their back
Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
Babies should be placed on their backs:
- For naps
- At bedtime
- Every time they sleep
Back sleeping is the safest sleep position for infants.
C: In their crib
Use a crib with a firm, flat sleep surface.
A safe sleep space includes:
- A firm mattress with a fitted sheet
- A safety-approved crib, bassinet, or portable play yard
- No extra bedding or soft items
Avoid placing babies to sleep on couches, recliners, swings, loungers, or adult beds.
Additional safe sleep tips
- Keep your baby smoke-free during pregnancy and after birth
- Dress your baby in light sleep clothing to avoid overheating
- Consider offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime once breastfeeding is established
- Keep vaccinations up to date
- Attend all well-child visits with your pediatric provider
What to avoid
To help keep your baby safe, avoid:
- Sleeping with your baby in an adult bed
- Loose blankets or pillows in the crib
- Inclined sleepers or sleep positioners
- Letting your baby sleep in car seats, swings, or loungers for long periods
- Covering your baby’s head during sleep
Safe sleep saves lives
Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most important ways to protect your baby. Reid Health supports families through education and resources to help every infant sleep safely.
If you have questions about safe sleep practices, take with your pediatrician or care team.
Women's Health
More helpful resources for baby
Explore birthing, breastfeeding, parenting, and infant care classes from Reid Health designed to support you through pregnancy, delivery, and your baby’s first months at home.