Why Safe Sleep Matters
Sign up to receive more tips for better sleep!
Bringing home a new baby comes with endless advice—much of it confusing or outdated. But one thing that’s always clear? Safe sleep saves lives. Following safe sleep guidelines doesn’t just reduce risks like SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)—it also helps your baby sleep more soundly and helps you rest easier.
And here’s the best part: safe sleep doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple changes can make your baby’s sleep space safer starting tonight.
The 3 Most Common Safe Sleep Mistakes
Even when parents think they’re doing everything right, it’s easy to slip into habits that feel comforting but aren’t safe long-term. Here are the top mistakes I see:
1. Crib Accessories
Bumpers, pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals might look cozy, but they’re not safe. Babies should sleep in a crib, bassinet, or play yard with only a firm mattress and a fitted sheet. Remember: a bare crib is a safe crib.
2. Sleeping in Gear
Car seats, swings, loungers, and bouncers are designed for play or travel—not for sleep. While it’s tempting to let baby nap in these, especially on tough days, they increase risks. The rule of thumb: flat and firm beats inclined and cushioned every time.
3. Tummy Sleeping
Many parents assume tummy time means tummy sleeping. But for naps and nighttime, the safest position is always on the back until your baby can confidently roll both ways on their own. Back to sleep, every sleep.
Your Day-One Safe Sleep Checklist:
If you’re setting up your baby’s sleep space for the first time—or double-checking what you already have—start with this simple list:
✅ Firm, flat sleep surface (crib, bassinet, or play yard)
✅ Baby sleeps on their back every nap, every night
✅ No loose blankets, pillows, or toys in the crib
✅ Use a swaddle (before rolling) or a sleep sack (after rolling)
✅ Share a room, not a bed, for at least 6–12 months
✅ Keep the sleep environment smoke-free and cool
Safe vs. Unsafe: Clearing Up the Confusion
- Safe: A baby in a sleep sack, on their back, in a crib with just a fitted sheet.
- Unsafe: Baby in an adult bed, on a couch, or surrounded by blankets and pillows.
- Safe: Room-sharing where baby’s crib or bassinet is in your room.
- Unsafe: Bed-sharing, especially in the newborn stage when sleep is unpredictable.
If you’re ever in doubt, think: flat, firm, back, bare. That simple phrase covers the essentials.
Safety and Sleep Can Coexist
Following safe sleep guidelines doesn’t mean sleepless nights—it means peace of mind and a healthier foundation for your baby’s rest. And if you’re still unsure about your setup, that’s where I come in. As a pediatric sleep consultant, I help parents create safe, gentle, and effective sleep plans that work for their unique family.
