Myth vs. Fact: How to Keep Your Baby Safe and Snug

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Myth: Babies are more likely to choke on spit up or vomit when sleeping on their backs instead of their stomach.
Safe Position

Fact: Spit up or vomit is less likely to affect baby’s breathing if they sleep on their back than their stomach. When babies sleep on their stomach, spit up can more easily block their airway and increase the risk of sleep-related death.

Myth: Co-sleeping, or sharing a bed, is safe because I’m watching my baby.
Safe Space

Fact: Caring for babies is exhausting. No one intends to harm their baby when they share a sleep surface. Sharing a bed increases the risk of suffocation, entrapment and SIDS, even if you’re normally a light sleeper. Almost 60% of sudden unexpected infant deaths happen in shared sleep spaces. Couches and recliners are even more dangerous, up to 67 times riskier than a crib due to the small space and soft cushions. The safest choice is to share a room, not a bed. Keep your baby nearby in a crib, bassinet or pack n play.

Myth: Soft bedding and blankets help keep babies comfortable and warm.
Safe Space

Fact: Overheating increases the risk of sleep related death. Pillows, bumpers or extra blankets can cause babies to get too hot or suffocate (block their breathing). A firm mattress with a fitted sheet and putting baby in a swaddle or sleep sack is the safest way to keep them warm.

Myth: If I put my baby in a crib alone, they’ll feel abandoned or lonely.
Baby's Comfort and Needs

Fact: Babies feel comforted and contained in a swaddle or sleep sack – and it’s safe. Room-sharing (same room, separate sleep space) keeps them close and safe.

Myth: My parents put me to sleep on my stomach, and I turned out fine.
Safe Position

Fact: Sleep recommendations have changed as we’ve learned more. Decades of research show that stomach sleep puts babies at a much higher risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Putting baby on their back for every sleep is one of the safest choices you can make.

Myth: A nap in a swing or car seat is fine.
Safe Space

Fact: Car seats, swings and other inclined devices aren’t designed for sleep and can block baby’s breathing. If your baby falls asleep in one of these, gently move them to a firm, flat sleep surface like a crib, bassinet or pack ‘n play as soon as it’s safe to do so. 

Myth: If my baby rolls onto their stomach, I should keep flipping them to their back.
Safe Position

Fact: Once your baby can roll over both ways on their own, you don’t need to keep flipping them. Always start every sleep with them on their back and keep the sleep area completely clear—just a firm, flat surface with your baby in a swaddle or sleep sack and nothing else.

Myth: If my baby is crying, they must be uncomfortable or something is wrong.
Baby's Comfort and Needs

Fact: Crying is normal. Babies wake often—sometimes every 2-3 hours—for feeding, burping or a diaper change. Waking up frequently is part of healthy development. It helps keep them safe.

Myth: If I do everything right, my baby will sleep all night.
Baby's Comfort and Needs

Fact: Newborns have tiny stomachs; they need to eat often. Most babies won’t sleep through the night until 4-6 months (sometimes longer). But that doesn't last forever! Soon, you and your baby will get longer stretches of sleep.

Real-World Tips for Safe Sleep

We know it’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. You’ve got this.

Nighttime Tips for Safe Sleeping

  • Take turns: Share night shifts with your partner, friend or family.
  • Stay alert: Use dim lights, snacks, drinks and alarms while feeding.
  • Feeding in bed? Remove pillows and blankets, set an alarm and always move baby back to their own flat sleep surface.
  • Use a hard upright chair for safer feeding if needed.
  • Never share a bed or sleep surface with your baby.

Understanding Baby’s Cry

  • Crying is how your baby “talks” with you. They aren’t always in pain or uncomfortable.
  • You can soothe baby without sharing a bed. Keep them close in their own sleep space, like a crib or bassinet next to your bed. Gentle touch, soft singing or using a pacifier can help comfort them.

Feeling overwhelmed? Reach out for help. Call support lines like the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA), your doctor or your baby’s pediatrician.

Support for You

  • Emotional and physical support is essential. Here are some ways to make sure you’re cared for too:
    • Lean on your support circle: Ask a partner, family member or friend to help with feedings, diaper changes or household tasks so you can rest.
    • Plan for breaks: Even short naps or a few minutes of rest can help recharge your energy.
    • Prioritize your well-being: Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals and keep snacks nearby during nighttime care.
    • Give yourself grace: Parenting is hard work. It’s okay to ask for help and take time for yourself.
  • Seek help from home visits, local resources or mental health hotlines. Explore support options on our Resources page.

Long-Term Benefits of Safe Sleep for Your baby

  • Better sleep=better mental health
  • Builds healthy habits for school and life

Keep baby safe by sharing these tips for anyone caring for your baby.