SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) occurs when the sudden death of an infant old cannot be determined and is the leading cause of death for infants ages 1 to 12 months. Unfortunately, researchers remain unsure what causes SIDS. However, creating a safe sleep environment can help reduce your little one’s risk.
We’ve put together some safe sleep tips to help reduce the risk of SIDS based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Task Force updated recommendations:
• First and foremost, avoid purchasing second-hand crib mattresses or cribs. There are various safe and durable crib mattresses at a great value available today that will meet the latest industry standards.
We recommend: Sealy FlexCool 2-Stage Crib & Toddler Mattress, Sealy Baby Firm Rest Crib Mattress and Sealy Baby Posturepedic Grace 2-Stage Hybrid Crib & Toddler Mattress.
• Avoid placing the crib near lamps, dangling cords, ribbons, windows, fans, heaters or climbable furniture.
• Always place babies on their backs to sleep unless otherwise directed by your baby’s doctor.
• Make sure baby’s face remains uncovered by keeping heavy blankets, pillows, and stuffed toys out of the crib. For newborns, you can swaddle them in a thin blanket.
• Keep hanging objects out of the crib and ensure mobile units and toys are at least 10-12 inches away from baby’s face.
• Turn on a fan to keep the air circulating if your baby’s sleeping room feels hot and humid.
• No co-sleeping: we know it’s hard to resist newborn snuggles, but co-sleeping is not recommended for safe infant sleep.
• Do not place infants to sleep on pillows, sofas, waterbeds, or adult beds.
• Look for crib mattress pad covers that have a fitted design and a stretchy skirt that wraps underneath baby’s mattress. This helps hold the crib pad in place and prevents sliding, shifting and bunching for a safe and secure sleeping surface for infants and toddlers.
• Give baby plenty of tummy time when they are awake, and when someone is watching them.
• Offer baby a pacifier during naps and at night once they are feeding well.
