# Safe sleep for babies: the AAP's rules

> Safe sleep (AAP): on the back, firm flat surface, empty crib, room sharing, swaddling, pacifier, overheating

Sleep · Reviewed 2026-10-19 against the sources below · https://livia.baby/learn/safe-sleep

- On the back for every nap and every night, up to 1 year. On the side is as dangerous as on the stomach.
- A firm, flat surface (a crib, bassinet or play yard that meets CPSC standards) with only a fitted sheet. Nothing inclined more than 10 degrees.
- Nothing else in the crib: no pillows, blankets, quilts, bumpers, toys or mattress toppers.
- Room share, not bed share, for at least the first 6 months; it can cut SIDS risk by up to half. After a feed in your bed, put the baby back in their own space before you fall asleep. Never fall asleep with the baby on a couch or armchair.
- Asleep in a car seat, swing, stroller or carrier: move them to a flat surface on their back as soon as you can.
- Swaddling doesn't lower SIDS risk. Swaddled babies go on their back; stop swaddling at the first signs of trying to roll (often around 3 to 4 months, sometimes earlier).
- A pacifier at naps and bedtime helps, even if it falls out (for breastfed babies, once breastfeeding is going well). Never on a cord around the neck.
- Dress the baby in one layer more than an adult would wear; no hat indoors; watch for sweating or a hot chest.
- No weighted blankets, sleepers or swaddles.
- Why it matters (CDC): about 3,400 babies under 1 die suddenly and unexpectedly each year in the US, most during sleep; the CDC backs these AAP steps to prevent it.

## In Livia

Livia estimates when the next nap is likely from your baby's own sleeps, so the safe sleep space can be ready before the yawns start.

## Sources

- [AAP / HealthyChildren.org](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx)
- [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/sudden-infant-death/about/index.html)

_Education from the sources listed, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child, call your pediatrician; in an emergency, call 911._