Newborn Sleep Safety Tips

Here are some tips on newborns and sleep.

1. No Co-Sleeping!!! Do not bring your baby to bed with you. This can potentially be tragic. Babies can suffocate on the covers, pillows, or blankets. There is also a higher incidence for SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Place a Pack 'n Play next to your bed and have the newborn sleep there instead.

2. Develop a routine from the beginning. It may take several weeks but it will help in the long run!

3. No plush toys, pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals in the crib.

4. Bumper pads are questionable. If it is used, keep it tightly secured.

5. Babies need to be placed on their backs to sleep. This has reduced the incidence of SIDS dramatically.

6. Check the crib bars. The bars should be no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart, so that babies can't get their heads caught between them.

7. The mattress should fit snug onto the crib. There should be no more than a 1½ inch (4 centimeter) gap between it and the side or end of the crib. Also use a firm mattress.

8. No items with strings, cords, or ties should be in the crib.

9. Do not have the baby sleep in a room where there is tobacco use.

10. Do not overheat the baby. Dress the baby in light clothing and keep the temperature comfortable. Do not over-bundle.

11. Use fitted sheets for the mattress.

Interesting fact: Newborns sleep on average about 16 hours per day!

Thank you and have a nice day!