Safe Sleep


Article Body

Safe Sleep for Your Baby

Ensuring that your baby sleeps safely is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. Safe sleep practices help protect your baby from risks like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related dangers. Here’s what you need to know to keep your baby safe while they sleep.

Create a Safe Sleep Environment

  1. Use a Firm Mattress: Place your baby on a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib. Avoid using soft bedding like pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals in the crib, as they can pose a suffocation risk.
  2. Keep the Crib Bare: The crib should be empty except for a fitted sheet. Avoid bumper pads and toys to ensure there’s nothing that could cover your baby’s face, nose, or mouth.
  3. Sleep Position: Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This is the safest position and significantly reduces the risk of SIDS.

Room Sharing, Not Bed Sharing

  • Share a Room, Not a Bed: It’s best to keep your baby’s crib or bassinet in your room for the first six months to a year. However, avoid sharing a bed with your baby. Bed-sharing can increase the risk of suffocation and SIDS.

Maintain a Comfortable Temperature

  • Keep it Cool: Ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature to prevent your baby from overheating. Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and avoid heavy blankets.

Use Safe Sleep Products

  • Wearable Blankets: Instead of loose blankets, use a wearable blanket or sleep sack to keep your baby warm without the risk of covering their face.
  • Avoid Positioners: Do not use sleep positioners or wedges. They are not safe and can pose a risk of suffocation.

Consistent Sleep Routine

  • Establish a Routine: A consistent bedtime routine helps your baby feel secure and can improve their sleep quality. This can include activities like a warm bath, feeding, and reading a book before bed.

Additional Tips

  • Pacifier Use: Offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime can reduce the risk of SIDS. If you’re breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is well-established before introducing a pacifier.
  • Smoke-Free Environment: Keep your baby’s sleep area free from smoke. Exposure to smoke increases the risk of SIDS.

By following these safe sleep guidelines, you can create a secure sleep environment for your baby. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, keep the crib bare, and share a room without sharing a bed. These practices will help ensure that your baby sleeps safely and soundly.

Cribs for Kids Program

The South Dakota Department of Health partners with the national Cribs for Kids program to provide safe sleep environments for infants of families in need.

Eligible families receive a free pack n’ play, crib sheet, infant sleep sack, and one-on-one education.

You may be eligible if…

  • you are caring for an infant less than 1 year of age;
  • the infant does not have a safe place to sleep such as a crib (purchased after 2011 with a firm, well-fitting mattress), portable crib, or bassinet; and
  • there is a financial need. Participants of WIC, Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, Fuel Assistance, TANF, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are likely eligible.

Visit the SD Department of Health Safe Sleep webpage for more information.