Keeping your baby safe during sleep
Keeping your baby safe during sleep
Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
Place your baby on a firm, flat surface to sleep. The safest place for a baby is in a crib, cradle, or bassinet that meets safety standards.
Put your baby to sleep alone in the crib.
Keep soft items (like blankets, stuffed animals, and pillows) and loose bedding out of the crib. They could block your baby's mouth or trap your baby.
Don't use sleep positioners, bumper pads, or other products that attach to the crib. They could block your baby's mouth or trap your baby.
Do not place your baby in a car seat, sling, swing, bouncer, or stroller to sleep.
Have your baby sleep in the same room as you (in their own separate sleep space) for at least the first 6 months—and for the first year, if you can. Don't sleep with your baby. This includes in your bed or on a couch or chair.
Keep the room at a comfortable temperature so that your baby can sleep in lightweight clothes without a blanket.
Current as of: May 1, 2026
Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
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