How to Position an Infant for Sleep

Contributor

By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating:

(6 Ratings)

To lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests the following guidelines when laying your baby down to sleep.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Baby Sleeper Suits
Baby Bumpers
Bottom Sheets
Cribs
Newborn Sleep Pillows
Firm Mattresses
Cribs

Step 1

Provide proper bedding: a firm infant mattress free of pillows, stuffed animals or comforters that could block your baby's airway. Crib bumpers should be securely fastened to the bars.
Step 2

Lay your newborn down on his back, not his stomach. Research suggests that this position may lower the risk of SIDS.
Step 3

Ask your pediatrician about alternate sleeping positions if your baby was a preemie who experienced respiratory distress or if your baby has a gastroesophageal reflux.
Step 4

Consider purchasing a newborn sleep pillow to keep your baby from rolling from his back or side to his stomach. Discuss this idea with your doctor.
Step 5

Avoid covering your baby with a blanket. Instead, put him in a sleeper suit that will keep him warm without blankets.

Tips & Warnings

Placing a baby on his back, even after a feeding, will not increase the risk of choking on spit-up food.
Make sure your crib meets safety standards: Bars shouldn't be wider than 2 3/8 inches apart, and no gaps should exist between the mattress and the frame.