A safe night’s sleep starts with the right environment. With approximately 3,400 sleep-related infant deaths occurring each year in the United States, according to the CDC, following safe sleep practices is an important part of caring for little ones.
From choosing the right crib and mattress to following expert safe sleep guidance, thoughtful choices can help create a safer, more comfortable place for babies to rest—and give caregivers a little more peace of mind.
Read on to learn the safe sleep practices that all caregivers should follow:
Safe Sleep Practices
Creating a safer sleep space doesn’t have to be complicated. Safe sleep simply means following practices designed to reduce the risk of sleep-related incidents, including Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID).
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides clear recommendations for safer infant sleep—and the basics are easy to remember with three simple letters: A-B-C.
1. Alone
Babies should have their own individual sleep space, separate from other children or adults. The crib should be clear of blankets, pillows, toys, bumpers or other loose items that could pose a suffocation risk.
2. Back
Always place babies on their backs for every nap and nighttime sleep. This position helps keep their airways clear and is recommended as the safest sleep position for infants.
3. Crib
Babies should sleep in a flat, firm sleep surface like a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard with a properly fitted mattress and snug fitted sheet. Softer surfaces like couches and armchairs, as well as swings, car seats and other sitting devices, aren’t designed for babies.
Creating a Safer Sleep Environment
The ABCs make safe sleep simple to remember, but the right sleep environment helps put those practices into action. Thoughtful products, a properly prepared crib and attention to the little details can all help create a safer place for babies to rest.
1. Buy Safety-Approved Cribs
The crib is the foundation of your baby’s sleep space. Choose a safety-approved crib designed to meet current safety standards, with sturdy construction and a firm, flat mattress that fits properly.
Starling cribs are built with the durability needed for the everyday rigors of childcare environments, making them a dependable choice for bringing that same quality into your home, childcare center, or rental property.
2. Choose Properly Fitted Sheets
Choose a fitted sheet designed specifically for your crib mattress so it stays smooth and securely in place. Avoid sheets that are loose, oversized or prone to bunching, as loose fabric can create a suffocation hazard. Keeping the sleep surface simple, snug and secure is one more small detail that helps create a safer place for baby to rest.
3. Keep the Crib Clear of Loose Items
Keep the crib simple with only a firm, flat mattress and properly fitted sheet. Pillows, blankets, bumpers, stuffed animals and other loose items should stay out of the crib to help reduce sleep-related risks.
4. Keep Babies Comfortable
It’s important to keep baby comfortable without letting them get too warm. Dress them appropriately for the room temperature, avoiding unnecessary layers. Be sure to check for signs of overheating, like sweating or a chest that feels hot.
5. Choose the Right Spot
Where you place the crib matters, too. Keep it visible, with a baby monitor that can see in. Also keep it away from windows, curtains, blind cords, electrical cords and other items baby could reach. A clear area around the crib helps keep potential hazards out of the sleep space.
Safe Sleep is a Team Effort
Safe sleep works best when everyone caring for babies follows the same practices. For small childcare providers, that means making sure every caregiver understands safe sleep recommendations and regularly training staff on these practices.
The same goes at home. If grandparents, babysitters, family members, or friends help with naps or bedtime, take a few minutes to share your safe sleep routine with them. Simple reminders about placing baby on their back, keeping the crib clear, and using a firm, flat sleep surface can help keep care consistent no matter who is putting baby to bed.
Whether at home or in childcare, staying informed and communicating safe sleep practices helps create a safer, more consistent sleep environment for every little one.
Create Your Safe Sleep Space Today
Safe sleep starts with simple, consistent habits. By following the ABCs and creating a thoughtfully prepared sleep space, you can help make every nap and bedtime safer.
Starling is proud to support safer sleep with professional-grade cribs that bring dependable durability and thoughtful design to your nursery. Explore our crib collection and create a safer sleep space for your little one.