Every year, around 3,500 babies in the U.S. die suddenly and unexpectedly while they’re sleeping.

Most of these tragic deaths are due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or accidental deaths from suffocation or strangulation.

To reduce the risk of all sleep-related infant deaths, we have revised our 2016 policy statement and technical report on safe sleep to include additional ways to reduce the risk of SIDS, as well as some new recommendations. Unless mentioned otherwise, all these recommendations are for babies up to 1 year of age. Talk with your pediatrician if you have questions about any of these recommendations.

Recommendations for a safe sleep environment to prevent SIDS

Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent SIDS, research tells us that a safe sleep environment can help reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS.

We also know how to prevent unintentional suffocation and strangulation in bed. Our guidance on safe sleep helps to protect babies from these deaths.

A safe sleep environment lowers the risk of all sleep-related infant deaths.

For how to keep your baby safe while sleeping, see “Ways to Create a Safe Sleep Environment.”