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Sleep Safety and Suffocation Prevention Tips

How to Get Baby Ready for Sleep

  1. Dress baby in a wearable blanket, onesie or similar clothing for every sleep. A loose blanket could cover baby’s airway or make their body temperature too high.
  2. Place baby on their backs for naps and at night until they are 1 year old. Once babies can roll back and forth from their back to their tummy on their own, you can leave them in whatever position they like.

How to Create a Safe Place for Baby to Sleep

  1. Choose a firm mattress and fitted sheet for baby’s crib. Remove toys, blankets, pillows, bumper pads and other accessories from the crib.
  2. Share your room, not your bed. Place baby’s crib or bassinet in your bedroom instead of letting baby sleep in the same bed with you.
  3. Practice safe sleep for naps and at night. Even after late-night feedings, return baby to their own crib or bassinet before you are ready to go to sleep.

How to Choose a Crib for Baby

  1. Choose a crib that was made after 2011. If you are not using a new crib, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to make sure it meets the latest safety requirements.
  2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble your crib. Make sure to complete and submit the product registration card to learn about any recalls or safety updates..
  3. Check for recalls. When searching for recalls on the CPSC website, type “crib” or the brand name in the search box.

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