About Safe Sleep

Sudden Unexpected Death of an Infant (SUDI), also known as SIDS or SUIDS, describes the sudden and unexpected death of a baby less than a year old, which can be caused by accidental suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation in a sleeping environment. To lower the risk of SUDI occurring, practice the ABC’s of safe sleep (Alone, Back, Crib).

Safety tips

• Always practice the ABCs of safe sleep
• The sleep environment should be free of any blankets, pillows, plush toys, etc. All of these items pose a hazard for suffocation and entrapment. Babies should only sleep on a firm mattress and a fitted sheet with nothing else.
• Do not overbundle your baby. Overheating can increase the risk of SUDI. Babies only need light sleep clothing. If the room temperature is comfortable for you, it is comfortable for baby.
• Once your baby can roll over, stop using a swaddle and only use a sleep sack.
• Only bring baby into your bed for feeding or comfort, once feeding or comfort is complete, put them back into their own safe sleep environment.
• Breastfeeding lowers risk of SUDI.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs during pregnancy, as well as after the baby is born.
• Never place your baby to sleep on a couch, cushion, baby swing, car seat, or soft surface. These are dangerous places for babies to sleep and increases their risk of suffocation and entrapment.
• Talk to your baby’s caregivers (grandparents, childcare providers, etc.) about safe sleep. Make sure that everybody who cares for your baby is aware of best practices so your child is sleeping safely at all times.

Download the safe sleep brochure >
Descargue el folleto de sueño seguro en español >

Safe sleep and special healthcare considerations

If your infant has a special healthcare consideration that makes following safe sleep best practices a challenge, we encourage you to reach out to your pediatrician as well as our team for further education.