What is the safest sleep position for babies?

The safest sleep position is on their back, not on their side or stomach. The American Academy of Pediatrics states this reduces sudden infant death syndrome statistics by 40%.

Should I use blankets for my baby's sleep?

No, avoid blankets as they can block airflow if they cover baby's face. Instead, use appropriate pajamas or wrap baby in a swaddle for warmth.

What type of mattress is best for baby sleep?

Choose a firm mattress that doesn't cave or indent under your baby's weight. This applies to both crib and stroller mattresses for safe sleep.

When do baby sleep guidelines start applying?

Formal sleep guidelines are developed for babies over 4 months of age. For the first four months, these structured guidelines simply don't exist.

Should I move my baby if they roll over while sleeping?

No need to move baby if they roll over on their own. Once babies can shift and roll, their muscles are strong enough to prevent accidental suffocation.

5 Essential Baby Sleep Tips Every Parent Needs [2026 Guide]

5 Tips for Baby Sleep

Babies under one year of age spend most of their time asleep [1]. This makes some parents worry about how and where they are sleeping. Here are five simple tips:

Place babies on their back. Not on their side or stomach. The American Academy of Pediatrics believes that this reduces the statistics of sudden infant death syndrome by 40% [2].
No need to move baby if they roll over. Once babies are able to shift and roll over, it means that their muscles are strong enough and they will not accidentally suffocate by burying their nose in the mattress.
Do not cover babies with a blanket. Better to put on pajamas or wrap in a swaddle as blankets could get caught on baby’s face and block air flow.
Do not force baby to sleep. It is tiresome for you try and useless for infants. If baby is awake and in the mood to communicate, communicate. If baby wants to sleep, they will fall asleep. Sleep guidelines have been developed only for babies over four months of age [1]. For the first four months, such guidelines simply do not exist.
Choose a firm mattress that does not cave under the weight of the baby for both the crib and the stroller. Also babies don't need pillows [2].