🌙 5 Life-Saving Safe Sleep Practices for Your Baby

aeiccm
Jun 28
2 min read

As a new parent, your baby’s safety is your top priority—especially while they sleep. At AEIC Case Management, we work closely with families to promote safe sleep practices that reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related accidents.

Here are 5 evidence-based, easy-to-follow ways to help your baby sleep safely and give you peace of mind.

🛏️ 1. Always Place Baby on Their Back to Sleep

Placing your baby on their back to sleep—for every nap and nighttime sleep—is the single most important step you can take. This position keeps the airway open and reduces the chance of suffocation.

Quick Tip: Even if your baby rolls over during sleep, always start them on their back. Once they can roll both ways on their own, it’s okay to let them find their own sleep position.

🛑 2. Keep the Crib Bare and Firm

Create a simple, safe sleep space using only:

A firm crib mattress
A tight-fitting crib sheet
No pillows, toys, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals

Soft bedding and loose items can increase the risk of suffocation.

Did You Know? Sleep positioners and wedges are not safe and are not recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

👶 3. Room-Share, Don’t Bed-Share

It’s safest to sleep in the same room as your baby (within arm’s reach) for at least the first 6 to 12 months—but not in the same bed.

Use a crib, bassinet, or portable play yard beside your bed to keep your baby close, but safe.

Why It Matters: Bed-sharing increases the risk of accidental suffocation, especially if parents are overtired or on medications that cause drowsiness.

🌡️ 4. Prevent Overheating

Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature—between 68–72°F (20–22°C). Avoid heavy blankets or hats.

Parent Tip: A wearable blanket or sleep sack keeps baby cozy without the risk of loose blankets.

Signs of overheating include:

Sweating
Damp hair
Flushed cheeks
Rapid breathing

💡 5. Use a Safe, Approved Sleep Surface

Make sure any sleep product you use is approved for infant sleep by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Avoid letting your baby sleep for long periods in:

Car seats
Swings
Bouncers
Loungers

These may be helpful for short rests or soothing, but are not safe for overnight or unsupervised sleep.

❤️ AEIC Can Help

At AEIC Case Management, we offer:

Children and Pregnant Women (CPW) services to help moms prepare for safe sleep before and after delivery
Crib assistance programs for families in need
One-on-one case management to guide you through your parenting journey