Skip to main content

New Sleep Recommendations to Protect Against SIDS

Based on new research and the first update since 2011, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced new recommendations to decrease the risks of infant sleep-related deaths.

AAP recommendations on creating a safe sleep environment include:

  • Place the baby on his or her back on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting sheet.
  • Avoid use of soft bedding, including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. The crib should be bare.
  • Share a bedroom with parents, but not the same sleeping surface, preferably until the baby turns one, but at least for the first six months. Room-sharing decreases the risk of SIDS by as much as 50%.
  • Avoid baby’s exposure to smoke, alcohol and illicit drugs.

While infants are at heightened risk for SIDS between the ages of one and four months, new evidence shows that soft bedding continues to pose hazards to babies who are four months and older. Other recommendations include:

  • Offer a pacifier at nap and bedtime.
  • Do not use home monitors or commercial devices, including wedges or positioners, marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS.
  • Infants should receive all recommended vaccinations.
  • Supervised, awake tummy time is recommended daily to facilitate development.