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ABC's of Sleeping Babies

ABCs of Safe Sleep (English)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 Posters

For more information on preventing infant sleep-related deaths, please view the following sites: CDC-Sudden Infant Death (SUID), AAP Guidelines, and First Candle.





Page last updated: January 4, 2023