How To Reduce the Risk of “SIDS”

October is SIDS Awareness Month, and it’s an important time to bring attention to something that every parent worries about (but can also take real steps to help prevent).

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death in infants between 1 and 12 months of age. It refers to the sudden and unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby, usually during sleep.

While SIDS is rare, understanding what increases the risk, and how to create a safer sleep environment, can make a world of difference.

At Choose Joy Nursing, our mission is to educate and empower parents with practical, evidence-based information so you can rest a little easier knowing your baby is sleeping safely.

Creating a Safe Sleep Environment

Providing a safe sleep space is truly the most important step you can take to lower your baby’s risk of SIDS. Here’s what that looks like in real life:

Always place baby on their back to sleep

Back is best - for every nap and every bedtime. It keeps their airway open and helps them breathe easily. Once your baby can roll both ways (back to tummy and tummy to back), it’s okay to let them find their own comfy position, but you should still always start them out on their back.

Use a firm mattress with just a fitted sheet

No extras! A firm, flat mattress with only a fitted sheet is safest. Avoid mattress pads, bumpers, or anything soft. If it looks “cozy” to us, it’s probably not safe for baby sleep.

Keep the crib clear

Blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, and toys all need to stay out of the crib. Your baby’s sleep space should be simple and bare - just baby in a swaddle or sleep sack. After 12 months, you may introduce a small blanket and/or lovey (according to the American Academy of Pediatrics).

Room share, don’t bed share

Keeping your baby close (in the same room) is wonderful, and actually reduces SIDS risk. But baby needs their own sleep surface, like a bassinet or crib. As tempting as it is to pull them into bed during those middle-of-the-night feeds, putting them back in their own safe space is best.

Note: We know many families choose to bed share for different reasons. IF that’s your plan, please take time to learn about safe sleep practices and how to make your setup as safe as possible.

Swaddle safely (and know when to stop)

Swaddling can be a lifesaver for newborn sleep, but once your baby starts showing signs of rolling, it’s time to transition to a sleep sack. This keeps them warm and cozy while still allowing them to move freely.

Keep air moving

Good air circulation matters! Studies show that having a small fan on low or an air purifier running can reduce SIDS risk. It helps move fresh air around and keeps baby’s environment comfortable.

Offer a pacifier

If your baby will take one, offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime can lower SIDS risk. Just skip the clips and stuffed animal attachments! We want it to be free from anything that could pose a choking or strangulation hazard.

Practice tummy time

Tummy time while baby is awake and supervised helps build strong neck and shoulder muscles, which helps them move safely and reposition themselves once they start rolling. Plus, most babies eventually grow to love it (especially with a comfy mat and some face-to-face time with mom and dad).

A Gentle Reminder

SIDS is rare, and by following these simple steps, you’re already doing so much to protect your baby. Safe sleep doesn’t have to be complicated! It’s really about creating a calm, consistent, and protected space for your little one to rest.

At Choose Joy Nursing, we know how overwhelming those first few months can be, and how hard it is not to worry. But we hope this helps you feel empowered and reassured that your baby’s sleep space can be both safe and peaceful.

You’re doing such a great job, mama. Every choice you make to keep your baby safe and loved truly matters.

For more tips, explore our other blogs or follow us on Instagram at @choosejoynursing.