What is SIDS & How Safe Sleep Practices Can Save Infants

haylee949
19 hours ago
2 min read

Every family wants their baby to sleep peacefully and safely. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) — and other unexpected sleep-related infant deaths (SUID) — remind us how important it is to create a safe and supportive sleep environment. While the exact cause remains unknown, research shows that following safe sleep practices can significantly reduce risk.

According to the latest data, more than 90% of SIDS deaths occur before 6 months of age, and about 72% of them happen between months 1–4. Although the focus is early infancy, safe sleep is important through the first year and beyond.

At FFRC, we believe community-centered information and culturally responsive care help all families feel supported and empowered. Below are some practical, evidence-based steps you can take to protect your infant and promote a healthy start.

Tips to Promote Safe Sleep

Sleep on the Back

Placing baby on their back for naps and at night is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk.

Always start baby on their back, even if they can roll over.
Avoid sleeping positions on stomach or side.
Back-sleeping is safe for preterm babies and babies with reflux.Why it helps: This position decreases suffocation risk, keeps the airway clear, and lowers vulnerability during the critical early months.

Use a Firm, Flat Sleep Surface

Choose a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or portable crib with a fitted sheet and no loose bedding or soft items.

Avoid soft mattresses, pillows, plush toys, or bumpers in the sleep space.
No inclined devices or non-crib surfaces for routine sleep.Why it helps: A firm, clear surface reduces the risk of entrapment and suffocation, supporting safer sleep for baby.

Room-Share, Don’t Bed-Share

Having baby sleep in your room (but not in your bed) lowers risk compared to sleeping in a separate room.

Place baby’s crib or bassinet next to your bed for at least the first 6 months.
Return baby to their own sleep space after feeding.Why it helps: This setup promotes easier monitoring and safer separation during sleep, reducing hazards associated with adult beds.

Breastfeed if Possible & Use a Pacifier at Sleep Time

Breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of SIDS, and offering a pacifier at naps and bedtime may help.

Wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing a pacifier.
Use the pacifier for sleep; don’t force if baby rejects it.Why it helps: These practices may support natural protective mechanisms and breathing arousal during sleep.

Avoid Overheating & Exposure to Smoke

Keep baby’s sleep environment at a comfortable temperature and free from smoke exposure.

Dress baby in light sleep clothing, skip heavy blankets.
Make sure the room isn’t too warm and avoid covering baby’s head.
No smoking during pregnancy or near baby.Why it helps: Overheating and tobacco exposure add layers of risk — controlling them strengthens safety.

Let’s Support One Another

Creating a safe sleep environment is a strong step, but it’s also about community: sharing knowledge, supporting caregivers, and ensuring everyone feels seen and heard. If you’d like more support or culturally responsive guidance, please contact us at Families Forward Resource Center.

For additional materials, infographics, or multilingual resources, you can explore the Safe to Sleep® campaign at their website safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/.