What is the safest way for your baby to sleep? Babies sleep safest when... they sleep alone on their back in an uncluttered crib or other safe sleep surface. Follow these simple "ABC's of Sleeping Babies" for guidance:
Alone
We, along with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend that the baby should sleep in the same room as the parents, but not in the same bed (room-sharing without bed-sharing).
Back
Unless otherwise instructed by a pediatrician, an infant should always sleep on its back.
An infant sleeping on its side or stomach faces increased risk of Sudden Unexplained Infant Death (SUID).
Infants should sleep without the aid of wedges and cushions.
Crib
Railings should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart - tight enough that a soda can will not fit through them.
The mattress should be firm and covered with a tight, fitted sheet.
Keep your baby's crib clutter-free - no quilts, duvets, bumper pads, stuffed animals, etc.
Waterbeds, futons, recliners and sofas are not acceptable substitutes for a crib.
Safe Sleep for Your Baby
The following video was produced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the National Institutes of Health as part of the "Safe to Sleep" campaign.
ABC's of Sleeping Babies