Don鈥檛 Sleep with Your Baby. Here鈥檚 Why.
Posted On: 08/16/2023
Sleeping next to your baby may seem natural 鈥� but it can be dangerous for the baby.
Every year in the US, about 3,400 babies die from sleep-related causes. Many of these deaths occur while newborns or babies are sleeping with parents or other caregivers.
When you are extra tired from the demands of caring for a baby, it鈥檚 easy to fall asleep holding them in your own bed, on a couch, or in your favorite chair. Don鈥檛 do it!
Keep your baby safe while they鈥檙e sleeping.
Learn more with the safe sleeping tips below. Then, be sure to share this important information with everyone who helps to take care of your baby.
What are reasons babies die during sleep?
Common reasons for sleep-related death are suffocation, strangulation, and sudden unexplained death in infancy (SUDI), previously known as
- Suffocation means something covers the baby鈥檚 face and they cannot breathe. A pillow, an adult鈥檚 arm, or a blanket can suffocate a baby during sleep. Babies can also suffocate from getting stuck in between the mattress and the wall or bedframe.
- Strangulation means something wraps around the baby鈥檚 neck. A strap, ribbon, or string from a toy, hanging mobile, or piece of clothing can cause accidental strangulation.
- SUDI is an unexplained death caused by an unknown medical issue.
Where should my baby sleep?
Babies should sleep in their own cribs or bassinets, near your bed.
The baby鈥檚 mattress should be firm and flat. Do not use tilted or inclined surfaces.
Use a well-fitted sheet that will stay in place.
Should I remove all items from my baby鈥檚 crib or bassinet?
Yes. Your newborn or baby could be suffocated or strangled by items in their crib.
Remove all objects, such as:
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Bumper pads
- Crib liners
- Sitting devices
- Stuffed animals
- Other toys
To learn more about setting up your baby鈥檚 crib or bassinet, visit the .
Where should my baby NEVER sleep?
Do not allow newborns or babies to sleep on or in:
- Couches
- Armchairs
- Swings
- Baby seats
- Car safety seats (except when in a car)
Should my baby sleep on their back?
Yes. Remember the phrase, 鈥渂ack is best.鈥�
What else can I do to protect my newborn or baby?
If you can, breastfeed your baby for their first six months of life.
to learn how breastfeeding helps your baby with safer sleep.
Need answers about childcare? Call the free 24-hour Nurse Line.
Have questions about pregnancy, childbirth, or newborn care?
Are you feeling dizzy or weak鈥攁nd worried you have an infection?
Do you have questions about postpartum depression?
Get professional help. Call the 24-Hour Nurse Line.
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