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A very small number of babies dies each year from a condition called sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the sudden, unexplained death of any infant under 1 year of age. Most commonly, it occurs between 2 and 4 months of age.
Clinicians still don’t know why SIDS happens, but there are steps you can take to minimize your baby’s risk.
Preventing SIDS
Remember the ABCs of sleep for your baby:
- Alone. Your baby should always sleep alone, not in bed with you. They should still be in the same room with you, though.
- Back. Always put your baby on their back to sleep. This is the number-one way to help prevent SIDS.
- Crib. Your baby should sleep in a crib or bassinet that meets federal safety standards.
You should check to be sure your baby’s crib is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. Never use a crib with drop sides.
Bassinets are not recommended once the baby can get onto hands and knees, usually when they are 4-5 months old.
You also reduce the risk of SIDS when you:
- Avoid infant sleep positioners or cushions to hold your baby in place in the crib.
- Keep your baby’s room ventilated by opening a window or using a fan.
- Use a firm mattress rather than a waterbed, pillow, or other soft surface.
- Keep soft items like pillows, stuffed toys, blankets, and bumpers out of your baby’s crib.
- Make sure your baby’s head and face stay uncovered while they sleep.
- Prevent anyone from smoking near your baby.
If someone else takes care of your baby, make sure your caregiver (such as a daycare provider, nanny, friend, or relative) is aware of these recommendations.