9 ways to help protect your baby from SIDS
If you’re reading this with tired eyes and a full heart, mama, I see you. I’ve been there—watching my baby breathe just to be sure, hovering by the crib at 3 a.m., unsure if I was doing everything “right.”
The truth is, no one can eliminate every worry. But we can take small, loving steps to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—and give our babies a safer, more peaceful place to rest.
Here are the gentle, research-backed tips that gave me confidence when my baby was tiny and new.
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💤 1. Always Put Baby on Their Back to Sleep
This is the #1 SIDS prevention recommendation—every nap and every bedtime.
Even if your baby rolls later, always start them off on their back.
💡 Try this: A wearable sleep sack like the Halo Sleepsack keeps them cozy and secure, without the need for blankets.
🛏️ 2. Use a Firm, Flat Crib Mattress
No plush surfaces or soft padding. A firm mattress helps reduce suffocation risk.
👉 I used the Graco Premium Foam Mattress — affordable, safe, and supportive.
🚫 3. Keep the Crib Bare
No bumpers, toys, pillows, or loose blankets—just baby, fitted sheet, and sleep sack.
✅ Safe crib = simple crib.
🍼 4. Use a Pacifier at Naptime & Bedtime
Pacifiers have been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS, even if they fall out during sleep.
(Just wait until baby is 1 month old if breastfeeding.)
👉 Our fave: Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier — hospital-grade and orthodontic-friendly.
🌡️ 5. Keep the Room Cool & Comfortable
68–72°F is ideal. Overheating is a real risk.
Skip the heavy blankets and opt for breathable sleepwear.
🧠 Bonus: A smart monitor like the Miku Pro tracks temperature and breathing for added peace of mind.
💡 Want more gentle sleep tips? Don’t miss my post on 7 Tricks That Helped My Baby Sleep Longer.
🤱 6. Share a Room, Not a Bed
Room-sharing reduces the risk of SIDS. Bed-sharing increases it.
👉 We loved the Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper — baby slept safely beside me, but in their own space.
🥛 7. Breastfeed, If You Can
Breastfeeding—especially exclusively for 6 months—lowers the risk of SIDS.
💬 “Those late-night feedings were hard, but knowing it helped protect her made it easier.”
Try a Boppy Pillow to stay comfortable during long night sessions.
🚭 8. No Smoking or Secondhand Smoke
This one’s huge: smoking during or after pregnancy raises the risk of SIDS.
Keep your home a smoke-free zone, and use a HEPA purifier like the LEVOIT Core 300 to improve indoor air quality.
🤸 9. Practice Daily Tummy Time
Helps baby build head control + prevents flat spots. Start small and work your way up!
👉 We used the Fisher-Price Kick & Play Mat — she loved the music, and I loved the giggles.
✅ What Helped Me Feel Safer
| Tool | Why It Helped | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Halo Sleepsack | Cozy without loose blankets | [Shop here] |
| Graco Foam Mattress | Firm, flat, breathable | [View on Amazon] |
| Boppy Nursing Pillow | Made night feeds more comfortable | [See here] |
| Miku Pro Monitor | Tracks baby’s breathing + temp | [Check it out] |
| Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper | Baby close by, safely | [Buy now] |
💖 One Last Thing, Mama…
You’re doing an amazing job.
You’re not overreacting. You’re not too worried.
You’re a mom—and you care deeply. That’s your superpower.
Even small steps make a big difference.
📥 Free Printable: Baby Safe Sleep Checklist
Want a reminder you can pin to the nursery wall or tuck into your planner?
Download our one-page Baby Sleep Safety Checklist!
✅ All 9 SIDS prevention tips
✅ Gentle reminders for daily routines
✅ Crib setup and temperature guide
👉 Click here to download your free checklist — no sign-up needed!
📌 Save This Post for Later!
Planning your nursery or about to bring home baby?
Pin this post so you’re ready with the safest tips at your fingertips.
✨ Peace of mind starts with knowledge—and a little prep goes a long way. 💛