Archive · 2 Oct 2026
Unsafe Sleep Linked To Nearly Three In Four Infant Deaths
Some babies die unexpectedly when their sleeping space is unsafe.
The article says nearly three out of four sudden infant deaths are linked to unsafe sleep situations.
Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep.
This includes short naps during the day.
Their mattress should be firm and flat.
Their crib or bassinet should meet safety standards.
Toys, pillows, blankets and bumper pads should be kept out of the sleep area.
Babies should sleep in the same room as their parents, but on a separate surface, for at least their first six months.
Nearly three in four sudden infant deaths are linked to unsafe sleeping situations, according to the article.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing babies flat on their backs for every sleep, including naps.
Babies should sleep on a firm, flat mattress in a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards.
Pillows, toys, bumper pads and blankets should be kept out of the infant’s sleeping area.
Babies should share a room with parents, but sleep on a separate surface, for at least six months.
- Who
- Infants, parents and caregivers, with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- What
- The article outlines measures to reduce sudden unexpected infant deaths associated with unsafe sleep.
- When
- For every sleep, including daytime naps; room-sharing is recommended for at least the baby’s first six months.
- Where
- In a safety-standard crib or bassinet on a firm, flat mattress, in the parents’ room but on a separate surface.
- Why
- To help prevent sudden unexpected infant deaths linked to unsafe sleeping situations and environments.
- Risk association
- Nearly three in four sudden infant deaths are linked to unsafe sleeping situations, according to the article.
- Sleep position
- Place babies flat on their backs for all sleep.
- Sleep surface
- Use a firm, flat mattress.
- Sleep furniture
- Use a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards.
- Items to remove
- Keep pillows, toys, bumper pads and blankets out of the sleeping area.
- Room-sharing
- Keep the infant in the parents’ room on a separate surface for at least six months.