Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained sudden death of a baby under 1 year. The good news: a few simple, evidence-based rules markedly reduce the risk.
This content is educational. Consult your pediatrician about your baby's specific health situation.
The most important rule: back to sleep
For every sleep — night and day — place the baby on their back. Front or side positions increase the risk. Once a baby can roll on their own (usually after 6 months), keep starting them on their back; you don't need to reposition them when they roll themselves.
A safe sleep surface
- Use a firm, flat mattress with a snug-fitting sheet.
- Keep pillows, duvets, toys and bumpers out of the bed.
- Prefer a proper sleep bag over loose blankets.
- The baby should sleep in their own cot/crib.
Room-sharing, not bed-sharing
For the first 6 months (ideally 1 year), the baby should sleep in the same room but in their own bed. Sharing the same bed increases risk, especially if a parent is very tired, has smoked/drunk alcohol, or the baby was born preterm.
Other protective factors
- Keep away from tobacco smoke (during and after pregnancy).
- Don't overdress the baby; keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
- Breastfeeding is protective.
- Offering a pacifier at sleep (once breastfeeding is established) may add protection.
- Keep vaccines up to date.
Tummy time while awake
Back sleeping can lead to flattening at the back of the head (positional plagiocephaly). To prevent this, give the baby supervised tummy time while awake; this also strengthens neck and shoulder muscles.
Summary
Back sleeping + a firm, empty bed + room-sharing + a smoke-free environment: these four rules are the foundation of safe sleep. Simple but effective.