There’s nothing quite as wonderful as watching a normal baby sleep safe and sound. Yet nearly 3,000 seemingly norml babies a year die in their sleep from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in this country. SIDS, sometimes known as crib death, is the major cause of death in babies age 1 month to 1 year.

One of the best ways that you can protect your baby is by placing him on his back every time you put him down to sleep. According to the Michigan SIDS Alliance, studies have shown that placing babies on their backs to sleep has helped to reduce the number of SIDS deaths in Michigan.

Years ago it was thought that the best position for a sleeping baby was on his stomach. Many parents and grandparents still place babies on their stomachs to sleep because they think it prevents them from choking on spit-up or vomit during sleep. But experts now say that all babies should be sleeping on their backs.

There are other things you can do to keep your baby safe while he or she sleeps. The Michigan SIDS Alliance suggests that you also make sure the baby’s crib is safe. Since babies can suffocate with soft materials in their cribs: 

  • Remove stuffed animals, pillows and things like fluffy comforters and crib bumper pads.
  • Make sure your baby sleeps on a firm mattress or other firm surface.
  • Don’t put the baby on a waterbed or other soft materials at naptime.

Also check to make sure that the room the baby is sleeping in is warm enough, but not too hot. The best temperature for a room where baby sleeps is one that feels comfortable to you.

Keep in mind that a smoke-free environment is good for baby too. Not only do babies and young children get more colds and other illnesses when they are around cigarette smoke, but it increases their risk of SIDS.

Taking these steps to keep baby safe is not just important while the baby is at home, but at all times. Make sure that grandparents, daycare providers, babysitters and anyone who will be caring for your infant knows the importance of placing the baby on his back while sleeping, too.

 

The Michigan SIDS Alliance offers a free “Back to Sleep” brochure with tips on keeping your baby safe at sleep time. They can also help families get through the grief of losing a baby to SIDS. Call them at 1-800-331-SIDS.