Safe Sleep Tips
Having a good sleeper is every mama’s dream, but even more important is having a SAFE SLEEPER!
Unfortunately, each year in the US, approximately 3500 infants die from sleep-related events, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed. As heartbreaking as it is to think about, there are some things we can do as parents to try and prevent negative outcomes.
As I started having my kids, like you I wanted to learn the tactics to be the very best mom and keep my kids safe. In this blog post I want to share with you some simple tips I’ve learned as a pediatric ER nurse and mama that I know will help you feel more confident and capable in keeping your baby safe while they sleep.
SELECT THE BEST SURFACE
FIRM: It is safest to place a baby on a firm surface; avoid fluffy, pillow-top mattresses or couches; firm is best.
FLAT: It is safest to lay a baby on a flat surface.
NO LOOSE ITEMS: It is safest to avoid any loose items in the sleeping area: no blankets, stuffed animals, sheets, pillows, sweatshirts, bumpers, clips, hair-ties, mittens or hats. Safe sleeper sacks and appropriate clothing can be used to keep babies cozy. Babies can easily become tangled in items while sleeping, so it is important to keep the sleeping area completely clear.
ALONE: It is safest for babies to sleep in their own crib or bassinet, especially under 6 months old. The data tells us that the risk of SIDS and suffocation increases when babies co-sleep with their parents. It is important for every parent to weigh the risks and benefits because you know your situation the best. How your baby sleeps is completely up to you!
AWAY: It is safest to place the crib or bassinet at least an arm length away from cords, windows, furniture, bookshelves, or dressers to avoid any potential accident.
CRIB CONSIDERATIONS
BUMPERS: Avoid bumpers as they have led to many cases of SIDS.
FITTED SHEETS: NO loose blankets, sheets or other items. You should have one fitted sheet around the mattress and that is all. I’ve always shared my favorite Newton Baby mattress with a lot of mamas because it’s breathable!
HEIGHT: Ensure the crib is at the appropriate height setting: once the baby can sit independently, the crib rail should be at mid-chest or higher when the baby is standing.
ITEMS: There should be absolutely no loose items in the crib.
BABY’S POSITION
BACK: Back is best. Always lay babies down on their backs; if they are able to roll over, that is fine, but always start infants on their backs.
SWADDLING SECRETS
SNUG & SECURE: Swaddling should be snug and secure. Swaddlers with built in velcro and zippers are helpful to ensure babies are secure. In general, the swaddle will be looser around the hips, but secure and snug elsewhere.
SLEEPING OUTSIDE OF THE CRIB:
CAR SEATS:
KEEP AIRWAY OPEN: Make sure your baby always has an open airway. Avoid fluffy blankets that could tangle up your child’s airway. Make sure you can always see your child’s face in the car seat.
AT STORE: Car seats should be placed in the large part of the shopping cart, or in an approved stroller adaptor.
MOVE WHEN HOME: Babies should only sleep in their carseats in the car; once home, move to their crib.
KEEP BUCKLED: Keep children buckled when they are sleeping in a car seat
I hope these reminders are helpful to you. It’s important to remember:
Once infants can roll to their stomachs, discontinue swaddling.
Once infants can stand, ensure the crib is set to the proper height.
Avoid all loose items that could potentially suffocate or strangle a child.
A well-rested child is happier and healthier, and ensuring their sleep environment is safe is something you can do anywhere! When you know you’ve done your part to create a safe and welcoming sleep for your baby, I know you’ll rest a lot easier too! Sending all my love and wishes for health,
Shannon, xoxo
For more information on how to keep your baby safe and healthy outside of just sleep, check out my comprehensive course: Mastering Medical Emergencies.