What should never be in your baby's crib for safe sleep and why.
We have all seen those adorable photos of a baby sleeping peacefully in a crib surrounded by soft cuddly toys. As a new parent battling sleep issues, such as infant sleeping false starts, you may find yourself questioning…
Is it really that unsafe for my little one to have a toy in the crib to comfort them?
The short answer is yes. While you may see photos displaying an abundance of toys and blankets in the crib, the truth is that for your baby to sleep safely; a minimalist approach is best.
Thanks to decades of scientific research on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), updated safe sleep guidelines for infants have reduced the incidence of SIDS by more than 50%.
In this post, we explore how to keep your baby safe in their crib while providing them the comfort they need for quality sleep.
Bare bones is best
There is no shortage of adorable baby linen and cuddly toys on the market. The key is the understand that they should stay outside of the crib while your baby sleeps.
The American Academy of Pediatrics' safe sleep guidelines reports that soft objects such as toys, pillows, quilts, non-fitted sheets, and baby bumpers can obstruct an infant's airway causing suffocation and an increased risk of SIDS. A recent study of accidental suffocations in infants sadly found that 69% of cases were attributed to soft toys and bedding.
While you may have visions of your little one peacefully sleeping with a meaningful soft toy, the safe sleep guidelines recommend that the only thing that should be in the crib is your baby.
What should be in the crib?
The safe sleep guidelines recommend placing your little one on a firm, flat, and non-inclined sleep surface. For example, a safety-approved crib with a tightly fitted crib mattress. A correctly fitted sheet may be used over the mattress, but no other bedding or soft objects should be in the crib environment.
Worried about them being cold or lonely?
We get it. Even when you know the science behind a safe crib setup, it is natural to be concerned about your precious bundle being comfortable with nothing but a fitted sheet.
The truth is babies don't need an abundance of bedding and toys to be comfortable.
However, if your little one appears unsettled, you can try one of these solutions:
Swaddling
A swaddle can have a calming effect on your baby and provide warmth during the colder seasons. In addition, research has shown that swaddling can decrease startling and spontaneous awakenings associated with infant sleeping false starts.
However, loose or incorrectly applied swaddling can pose a risk to your baby, and the safe sleep guidelines recommend opting for the commercially available swaddle sacks as the safe option.
Pacifier
Offering your baby a pacifier without a strap or string can provide comfort. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics reports that pacifiers may have a protective effect on the incidence of SIDS, with studies reporting a decreased risk of between 50%-90%.
Sleep with your child's crib sheet
Babies attach through their senses, so it is not surprising that the mere scent of you on their sheet provides comfort. Try sleeping with your little one's crib sheet for a few nights to transfer your scent so your baby senses your presence in their crib.
As they get older
As your little one grows, so will their desire to move around and explore. Most babies begin to show signs of rolling from about four months of age. Once a baby can roll onto their belly in the crib, they must have their hands free to help if they get stuck on their stomach. Therefore, it is essential to reassess the swaddle you are using at this time to ensure it allows your baby the freedom of movement they need.
If your little one is struggling to self-soothe or experiencing infant sleeping false starts, you may question when you can safely leave a comforter or toy in the crib with your baby.
The American Academy of Pediatrics' sleep guidelines is based on studies that include infants aged up to one year. Most professionals agree that it is safe for your baby to have a toy or comforter in their crib after their first birthday.
The safest option
Sleep is undeniably one of the most thought about and debated topics of having a young baby. Your sleep. Their sleep. Safe sleep. Best options. It can easily get overwhelming. Your not alone. New parents experience this all the time and that’s why we’re here.
My Sweet Sleeper is a pediatric sleep consultant that can work with you to ease your anxiety and ensure your baby gets quality sleep in a safe and supportive environment. We offer one on one personalized coaching to suit your individual needs. In addition, we know how important it is to connect with other parents, so we offer families the opportunity to participate in group coaching sessions as part of our program.
Whether you're facing the frustration of infant sleeping false starts, trying to settle a newborn, or struggling to get your toddler into a bedtime routine, we are here for you and your family through every stage of your child's development.
Reach out to us today to find out how we can improve your family's sleep.
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