Safe Sleep Toolkit

Safe Sleep Basics: The 5 Golden Rules

Always Place Baby on Their Back to Sleep:
Placing your baby on their back, for both naps and nighttime sleep, is the most effective way to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Never place your baby on their stomach or side to sleep.

Sleep in a Safe, Firm Crib:
Make sure your baby sleeps in a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards. The mattress should be firm with a tight-fitting sheet—avoid soft bedding, which could increase suffocation risks.

Keep Baby's Sleep Area Clear:
Only the baby should be in the crib or bassinet, with no pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads, or loose blankets. Dress your baby in safe sleep clothing, such as a sleep sack, to avoid the need for blankets.

Room Sharing, Not Bed Sharing:
It’s recommended that babies sleep in the same room as you for the first six months, but not in the same bed. Use a bassinet or crib in your room.

Avoid Overheating:
Keep your baby's room at a comfortable temperature (between 68-72°F or 20-22°C) and avoid overdressing your baby. Use breathable fabrics like organic cotton to regulate temperature and ensure your baby stays comfortable.

Safe Sleep Products: Essential Tools for Your Baby's Comfort and Safety

Sleep Sack vs. Loose Blankets:
A sleep sack is a wearable blanket that keeps your baby warm and cozy without the dangers of loose bedding. It’s designed to be safe, secure, and breathable. Our Bird + Bear sleep sacks are GOTS-certified organic and pediatrician-approved, offering comfort and safety for your baby.

Mattresses and Sleep Surfaces:
Ensure your baby sleeps on a firm, flat mattress with no soft bedding. The mattress should fit snugly in the crib with no gaps around the edges.

Crib and Bassinet Standards:
When choosing a crib or bassinet, make sure it complies with current safety regulations. The slats of the crib should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart to avoid trapping your baby’s head.

Creating a Safe Sleep Environment

Keep Baby's Sleep Area Free of Hazards:
Remove cords, strings, and anything that could pose a strangulation risk. Keep the crib away from windows, blinds, or anything that could pose a danger.

Use a Pacifier (Optional):
If your baby uses a pacifier, offering it at nap time or bedtime may reduce the risk of SIDS. Ensure the pacifier is appropriately sized for your baby.

Set the Right Temperature:
Overheating is a risk factor for SIDS. Keep the room temperature comfortable (68-72°F) and dress your baby in light layers. Our sleep sacks are designed to help regulate your baby’s temperature for maximum comfort and safety.