ABC's of Sleeping Babies

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

• Babies sleep safest when... English | Spanish
• Safe sleep is hard, but your baby is worth it. English | Spanish

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