Safe Sleep for Your Baby About 3,500 infants die unexpectedly each year in the United States due to SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and other sleep-related causes. According to researchers, face-down sleeping is the highest risk factor for SIDS. Follow these simple rules to keep your baby safe while sleeping. Rules for Safe Infant Sleep Always place your baby on his or her back for sleeping. Always use a firm sleep surface. Car seats and other sitting devices are not recommended for routine sleep. Keep soft objects (like pillows, blankets, and bumper pads) or loose bedding out of the crib Do not use wedges and other positioners. Avoid covering your baby’s head. Monitor room temperature to be sure that your baby does not overheat. Always ask your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns about your infant's safety. More Safe Sleep Resources Browse our support services and parent education classes, including programs related to infant and childcare, childbirth, and more. The National Institutes of Health offer resources and videos (like the one below) to help parents learn more about safe sleep.