Every parent wants their baby to sleep soundly and safely. But did you know that in the United States, the leading cause of death for infants between 1 month and 1 year old is Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID)? This includes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and sleep-related deaths such as accidental suffocation.
Each year, about 3,500 babies in the U.S. die from sleep-related causes [1]. Sadly, many of these tragedies happen because of unsafe sleep practices. In fact, deaths from accidental suffocation in bed have been increasing [2]. Here in Orange County, from 2010–2023, 123 infants died with SUID [3].
The good news? You can reduce the risk dramatically by following simple safe sleep guidelines.
The ABCs of Safe Sleep
To help you remember, think of the ABCs:
- A – Alone: Your baby should sleep alone, not in the same bed.
- B – Back: Always place your baby on their back to sleep for naps and bedtime.
- C – Crib: Use a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or pack ’n play – with no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or toys.
Other Ways to Keep Your Baby Safe
Along with the ABCs, here are other important tips recommended by pediatric experts:
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface. Place your baby on a mattress with a fitted sheet in a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards.
- Keep the sleep space clear. No extra bedding, bumpers, or soft items.
- Room-share, don’t bed-share. Keep your baby’s crib or bassinet in your bedroom for at least the first 6 months.
- Avoid unsafe sleep locations. If your baby falls asleep in a car seat, stroller, swing, or infant carrier, move them to a crib or bassinet as soon as possible. Never let a baby sleep on a couch, armchair, or nursing pillow.
- Breastfeed, if possible. Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the risk of SIDS.
- Offer a pacifier at naps and bedtime. Use a plain pacifier with nothing attached.
- Prevent overheating. Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and avoid hats on the baby indoors.
- Supervise tummy time. Give your baby short periods on their tummy while awake and being watched, to strengthen muscles and prevent flat spots on their head.
- Avoid smoke exposure. Don’t smoke or allow others to smoke around your baby.
Final Thoughts
Safe sleep is one of the most powerful ways parents and caregivers can protect their babies. By following the ABCs and making small but important choices each day, you can help ensure your baby rests safely and peacefully.
Remember: Alone. Back. Crib. Every sleep, every time.
For more information, see:
- American Academy of Pediatrics: SUID and Safe Sleep
- California Department of Public Health: Safe Sleep for Babies
- First Candle: Bereavement Support
- HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe English | Spanish
- Keep Me Safe While I Sleep Brochure English | Spanish | Vietnamese
- National Institutes of Health: Tummy Time for a Healthy Baby English | Spanish
- OC Health Care Agency: Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
