Safe Sleep

Expecting or caring for a baby? 

Take these steps to help baby sleep safely and reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) 

• Use a firm, flat (not at an angle or inclined) sleep surface, such as a mattress in a safety-approved crib covered only by a fitted sheet. 
• Keep your baby’s sleep area (crib or bassinet) in the same room where you sleep, ideally until your baby is at least 6 months old. 
• Remove everything from baby’s sleep area, except a fitted sheet to cover the mattress. No objects, toys, or other items. 
• Avoid swaddling once baby starts to roll (usually around 3 months of age). 
• Use a wearable blanket to keep baby warm without blankets in the sleep area. 

• Avoid letting baby get too hot and make sure baby’s head and face stay uncovered during sleep. 
• Place babies on their backs to sleep, for naps and at night.  
• Couches and armchairs are not safe for baby to sleep on alone, with people, or with pets. 
• Keep baby’s surroundings smoke/vape free. 

Visit Safe to Sleep for additional information and resources.