Safe Sleep: AAP Guidelines
Safe sleep isn’t just about peace of mind — it’s about preventing tragedy. Each year in the U.S., thousands of infants die suddenly and unexpectedly during sleep, often due to causes that could have been reduced or prevented. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has clear, evidence-based guidelines to help parents create a safe sleep environment for their baby.
What the AAP Recommends
Here are the key safe sleep practices from the AAP that every parent should know:
Always place your baby on their back for every sleep — both naps and nighttime.
Babies who sleep on their backs are significantly less likely to die suddenly and unexpectedly than those who sleep on their stomachs or sides. Even with conditions like reflux, the back position is safest.
Use a firm, flat sleep surface.
A crib, bassinet, portable crib, or play yard with a firm, well-fitting mattress and a fitted sheet only. Avoid soft surfaces, inclined sleepers over 10°, sofas, armchairs, or other seating.
Keep the sleep area bare.
No pillows, loose blankets, stuffed animals, bumper pads, or other soft objects that might cover the baby’s face or interfere with breathing.
Room sharing without bed sharing, ideally for at least the first 6 months, and preferable up to the first year.
Having your baby sleep in the same room helps with monitoring, feeding, and bonding, and it reduces risk of SIDS.
Avoid overheating.
Dress your baby in light sleep clothing, keep the room at a comfortable temperature, avoid heavy blankets or hats. Overheating may increase risk for sleep-related deaths.
Offer a pacifier at nap time and bedtime as long as breastfeeding is well established, which may reduce the risk of SIDS.
Why These Practices Matter
These guidelines are based on extensive research from the AAP, which in its updated policy reaffirms that these safe sleep practices reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths, including SIDS and accidental suffocation.
Common Questions & Tips for Follow-Through
What if baby rolls over? You should always start naps and nights with baby on their back. If they roll over once they can move both ways, that’s okay; just make sure crib is bare and safe.
Is swaddling okay? Yes, if done correctly. Stop swaddling as soon as baby shows signs of trying to roll. Avoid swaddles that are too tight or weighted.
What about car seats, swings, or carriers? These are for awake supervised use only. Do not use them for routine sleep. If baby falls asleep in one, move them to a proper sleep surface as soon as safe to do so.
Bottom Line
Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most powerful things you can do as a parent to protect your baby. Start with the basics: back sleeping, firm surfaces, clear crib, room sharing, and a comfortable temperature. These practices are simple but backed by strong science through the AAP.
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