How to Protect an Infant From SIDS

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) typically happens to seemingly healthy babies younger than a year old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although the exact cause of SIDS isn't known, medical researchers suspect some contributing causes, including exposure to cigarette smoke. There's no way to completely protect your baby from SIDS, but you can reduce the risk of SIDS by following a few simple recommendations made by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select a baby-safe mattress and approved furniture for sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a crib, bassinet or play yard and mattresses with endorsements from the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association, Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Society for Testing and Materials International. These regulations include safety standards that help avoid SIDS, including specifications for the space allowed between crib slats to avoid risks for trapping baby's head. Firm mattress selections also help avoid the risk of suffocation.

    • 2

      Remove padded bumpers, blankets, pillows and quilts from your baby's crib and bassinet. These items increase the risk of suffocation. Remove any items that have the potential to block breathing, including stuffed animals or plush toys.

    • 3

      Select infant pajamas that meet the needs of all seasons and avoid using blankets for naps or nighttime sleep. Overheated infants have increased risk of SIDS, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

    • 4

      Practice safe sleeping habits by always placing your child on her back to sleep or nap. Instruct all family members and caregivers to do the same. The AAP recommends placing infants on their backs to sleep until they reach their first birthdays.

    • 5

      Breastfeed your baby, if possible, and use a pacifier before bedtime. Although the link between pacifier use and reduced risks from SIDS is unproven, the AAP endorses the use before baby falls asleep.

    • 6

      Avoid exposing your infant to drugs. This includes cigarette and cigar smoke. Eliminate the use of drugs and alcohol while breastfeeding your baby. The New York City Coalition for a Smoke-free City also cautions parents against exposing baby to second- and third-hand smoke. The CDC defines secondary smoke as the air breathed out by smokers and the smoke released from the burning of tobacco products. Your baby comes into contact with third-hand smoke from clothing exposed to smoke and the residue from smoking left on car interiors and home furnishings such as draperies and furniture.

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