9 ways to help protect your baby from SIDS

As a mom, I know the worries that come with bringing a newborn home for the first time. I remember the sleepless nights, staring at my tiny baby’s chest, making sure she was breathing.

I used to hover over the crib and listen for every little sound, afraid to even blink.

As mothers, we want to do everything in our power to keep our babies safe, especially when it comes to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

One night, after a particularly exhausting day, I finally put my daughter down in her crib. I followed all the recommendations I had read—placing her on her back, keeping the crib empty—but I couldn’t shake the anxiety.

As I sat by her crib, scrolling through more advice and tips, I realized I needed to do what I could to reduce the risk and trust myself.

So I set out to create a safe sleep environment that would not only keep my baby comfortable but also give me peace of mind.

Here’s what I learned, and I hope it helps you feel more at ease during those precious (and exhausting) early days.

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9 Important Tips To Prevent SIDS

1. Always Put Your Baby on Their Back to Sleep

The most crucial recommendation for SIDS prevention is to always place your baby on their back to sleep, whether it’s naptime or nighttime.

Studies show that following this guideline significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Adhering to safe sleep practices and ensuring proper infant sleep safety are vital for every caregiver.

These include following baby sleep guidelines, ensuring crib safety, and consistently practicing the back to sleep method.

If your little one tends to roll over, consider a comfortable sleep sack for added security, making it easier to keep them on their back.

2. Use a Firm, Flat Mattress in the Crib

A firm mattress is essential for SIDS prevention as it helps reduce the risk of suffocation.

Choose a mattress that doesn’t indent when your baby lies on it to maintain a safe infant sleep environment.

Proper sleep position and SIDS guidelines are key in reducing SIDS risk factors and ensuring safe sleep for your baby, ultimately helping in cot death prevention.

Avoid soft bedding or overly plush surfaces, as these can increase the risk. Look for a certified crib mattress like the Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress, which provides the right support for your baby’s developing body.

3. Keep the Crib Bare—No Bumpers, Toys, or Blankets

As tempting as it may be to create a cozy crib setup, resist the urge to add extra items. Keeping the crib bare is essential for providing safe sleep surfaces.

It’s also important to consider other factors for SIDS prevention, such as breastfeeding and SIDS, using pacifiers for SIDS prevention, and monitoring your baby with a baby sleep monitor.

Room-sharing for SIDS is also recommended, along with taking care to avoid overheating your baby during sleep.

This means no stuffed animals, pillows, or extra blankets. Instead, opt for a lightweight, wearable blanket like the Burt’s Bees Baby Beekeeper Wearable Blanket, which keeps your baby warm without the risk of suffocation.

4. Use a Pacifier at Naptime and Bedtime

Research has shown that giving your baby a pacifier can reduce the risk of SIDS. However, if you’re breastfeeding, it’s best to wait until your baby is about a month old before introducing one to ensure a solid nursing routine is established.

Additionally, it’s crucial to avoid soft bedding for baby, maintain a consistent infant sleep schedule, and encourage tummy time to help reduce SIDS risks. Establishing healthy sleep habits for babies is key for overall risk reduction for SIDS.

When ready, choose a safe, orthodontic pacifier like the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier, which is specifically designed for newborns.

5. Ensure the Room is at a Comfortable Temperature

Overheating is a significant risk factor for SIDS. To minimize this risk, keep your baby’s room at a comfortable temperature, typically between 68-72°F.

In addition, consider safe co-sleeping practices, follow baby sleep tips, and ensure your baby’s overall infant health and safety.

Staying informed about the latest SIDS research can also help you make the best decisions for your baby’s sleep environment.

Instead of using heavy blankets, try a breathable baby monitor like the Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor. This high-tech device monitors your baby’s breathing patterns and room temperature, helping you maintain a safe sleep environment.

6. Share a Room, Not a Bed

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing for the first six months to a year, but not bed-sharing.

Place a crib or bassinet like the Arm’s Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper in your room so your baby can sleep safely within arm’s reach, but still have their own sleep space.

7. Breastfeed If Possible

Breastfeeding has been linked to a lower risk of SIDS, especially when done exclusively for the first six months.

I remember those long nights of feeding my little one, tired but determined.

If breastfeeding is challenging, consider consulting a lactation consultant or using a comfortable nursing pillow like the Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner to make those late-night feedings easier.

8. Avoid Smoking and Exposure to Secondhand Smoke

Exposure to smoke, even secondhand, can increase the risk of SIDS. Make your home a smoke-free zone, and if anyone smokes, encourage them to do so outside, far away from the baby.

Consider investing in an air purifier like the LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier to keep the air in your home clean and reduce allergens.

9. Practice Tummy Time During the Day

Tummy time is great for your baby’s motor development and helps build the muscles they need to eventually roll over and sit up. It also reduces the chances of developing flat spots on their head.

Start with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase the time. A tummy time play mat like the Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym is perfect for keeping your baby engaged while they strengthen those little muscles.

Every baby is different, and there’s no way to eliminate every risk, but taking these steps can help create a safer environment for your little one. Trust yourself, mom—you’re doing an amazing job!

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