Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

When we talk about sudden infant death syndrome, the unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby under one year old, usually during sleep. It’s not caused by vaccines, choking, or neglect—it’s a mystery with known risk factors you can control. Every year, thousands of families are affected, and while the numbers have dropped since the 1990s thanks to better awareness, it’s still the leading cause of death for babies between 1 month and 1 year old.

The biggest thing you can do? Put your baby on their back to sleep. Always. No exceptions. Even if they seem to sleep better on their tummy, that’s not worth the risk. safe baby sleep, a set of evidence-based practices to reduce SIDS risk includes a firm mattress with no pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals in the crib. Babies don’t need them—and those items can block their airway. breathable baby blankets, lightweight fabrics designed to let air pass through are a smart choice if you need to cover your baby, but even then, swaddling should be loose around the hips and stopped once they start rolling.

Room-sharing without bed-sharing cuts SIDS risk by up to 50%. That means your baby sleeps in their own crib or bassinet right next to your bed—not in your bed, not on the couch, not on a recliner. Co-sleeping might feel comforting, but it’s dangerous. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Smoke-free homes matter too. Babies exposed to secondhand smoke are at higher risk. Breastfeeding helps, even just for a few months. Pacifiers at nap and bedtime may help, but don’t force it if your baby hates it.

Some parents worry about flat heads from back sleeping. That’s real—but it’s fixable. Tummy time when awake, changing head position in the crib, and limiting time in car seats and swings helps. And if you’re ever unsure, trust your gut. If something feels off, call your pediatrician. You don’t need to wait for a checklist to be complete before acting.

The posts below aren’t just about bows or nursery decor. They’re about the real, everyday choices that keep your baby safe: what to put in the crib, how to pick a stroller that supports healthy posture, whether old cribs are still legal, and which blankets actually help prevent suffocation. These aren’t trends. These are life-saving habits, built on decades of research and real-world results. You’ll find clear, no-nonsense advice here—no fluff, no fearmongering, just what works.