When it comes to protecting your baby during sleep, simplicity matters. That’s why we love the ABCs of Safe Sleep principles endorsed by AAP, a memorable way to keep your little one safe and sound every night.
When it comes to protecting your baby during sleep, simplicity matters. That’s why we love the ABCs of Safe Sleep principles endorsed by AAP, a memorable way to keep your little one safe and sound every night.
Consider Room Sharing and Breastfeeding
At BabyLove Sanitary Products & Packaging Ltd, we believe that closeness and safety can go hand in hand. That’s why we encourage room sharing—a sleep practice where your baby sleeps in a crib or bassinet in your room, but not in your bed. This simple choice can significantly reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and make nighttime breastfeeding easier and more responsive.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, room sharing for at least the first 6 months—and ideally up to 1 year—can cut the risk of sleep-related infant deaths by up to 50% (AAP, 2022). It also helps parents stay connected to their baby’s needs without the dangers of bedsharing, such as accidental suffocation, overheating, or entrapment.
From the very first night your baby comes home, place them in their own crib or bassinet. We know how tempting it is to snuggle and drift off together, especially after a late-night feed—but resist that urge. Your baby’s safety depends on it.
Breastfeeding: Every Drop Counts
Breastfeeding isn’t just about nourishment — it’s protective. Research indicates that any amount of breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS, and exclusive breastfeeding for six months offers even greater protection (CDC, 2023). Whether you nurse for a few weeks or a full year, your efforts matter. Keep your baby close, but always return them to their own sleep space after feeding.
“Breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of SIDS. The longer and more exclusively babies are breastfed, the greater the protection.” —CDC, 2023.
Always place your baby on their back to sleep—whether it’s for naps or nighttime rest. This position keeps airways open and reduces the risk of breathing difficulties. Once your baby can roll over on their own, you don’t need to reposition them during sleep. Just make sure their sleep space is free of hazards like blankets or toys.
“Back sleeping is the safest position for infants under 1 year old.”
– AAP, 2022
Swaddling can help babies settle into sleep by mimicking the snug comfort of the womb. Use a breathable swaddle blanket or wrap, and stop swaddling as soon as the baby shows signs of rolling—often around 2 months. Pacifiers are another safe sleep tool. Research shows that pacifier use reduces the risk of SIDS by up to 50% (Mitchell et al., 2005
“One SIDS death could be prevented for every 2,733 infants given a pacifier at sleep.”
Use a firm, flat mattress in a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard. Avoid couches, adult beds, or recliners, which aren’t designed for infant sleep and can pose serious risks.
“Soft objects and loose bedding should be kept out of the infant’s sleep area.“
– CDC, 2023
Instead, dress your baby in a sleep sack or footed pajamas to keep them warm. Never use car seats, swings, or strollers for routine sleep—they’re not designed for safe sleep and pose positional risks. Safe sleep is a team effort. Make sure grandparents, babysitters, and anyone caring for your baby know your sleep rules. Practices have changed over the years, and what was once common—like tummy sleeping or bedsharing—is now known to be risky.
With today’s research, parents can feel confident knowing they’re doing everything possible to prevent sleep-related deaths.
Safe Sleep Recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics
1- Back to Sleep for Every Sleep
Always place your baby on their back to sleep, for naps and nighttime. Side and tummy positions increase the risk of SIDS.
3- Room-Share Without Bed-Sharing
Keep the baby’s sleep space in your room for at least the first 6 months, but never in your bed. Bedsharing increases the risk of suffocation and overheating.
5- Breastfeed If Possible
Breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months offers the greatest protection.
7- Avoid Smoke Exposure
Keep baby away from tobacco smoke during pregnancy and after birth. Exposure significantly increases SIDS risk.
9- Keep Baby Cool but Not Cold
Dress baby in one more layer than you would wear. Avoid overheating and head coverings during sleep.
11- Avoid Unproven Sleep Devices
Products marketed to reduce SIDS risk—like monitors or positioners—are not proven safe or effective.
13- Provide Supervised Tummy Time
Tummy time while awake helps with development and prevents flat head syndrome.
2- Use a Firm, Flat Sleep Surface
Choose a crib, bassinet, or play yard that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards. Use a tight-fitting mattress and fitted sheet only.
4- Keep Soft Objects Out of the Crib
No pillows, blankets, bumper pads, or stuffed toys. These items can obstruct breathing or cause overheating.
6- Offer a Pacifier at Sleep Time
Pacifier use during sleep has been shown to reduce SIDS risk. Wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing one.
8- Avoid Alcohol, Marijuana, and Illicit Drugs
These substances impair judgment and increase the risk of unsafe sleep practices.
10- Stay Up to Date on Immunizations
Routine vaccinations help protect against infections that may contribute to SIDS.
12- Don’t Use Sitting Devices for Sleep
Car seats, swings, strollers, and infant carriers are not safe for routine sleep.
14- Educate All Caregivers
Ensure that grandparents, babysitters, and anyone caring for your baby follow these safe sleep guidelines.