How to Put a Newborn to Sleep Safely

Learn essential safe sleep practices to help your newborn sleep soundly while reducing the risk of SIDS.

  1. Create the Perfect Sleep Environment. Start with a firm sleep surface covered by a fitted sheet. Use a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard - never a couch, armchair, or adult bed. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature (around 68-70°F) and ensure good air circulation. The sleep area should be quiet and dark, though a soft nightlight is fine for your convenience during nighttime feedings and diaper changes.
  2. Position Your Baby Correctly. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, for naps and at nighttime. This back-sleeping position significantly reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Even if your baby seems more comfortable on their side or stomach, back-sleeping is the only safe position until they can roll over on their own, usually around 4-6 months.
  3. Keep the Crib Bare. Your baby's sleep space should contain only your baby and their fitted sheet. No blankets, pillows, bumper pads, stuffed animals, or other soft objects belong in the crib. These items can pose suffocation risks. If you're worried about your baby being cold, dress them in a sleep sack or wearable blanket instead of using loose bedding.
  4. Establish Healthy Sleep Habits. Put your baby down when they're drowsy but still awake. This helps them learn to fall asleep independently. Newborns sleep 14-17 hours per day in short stretches of 2-4 hours. Don't expect long stretches of sleep initially - this is completely normal. Room-sharing (but not bed-sharing) is recommended for at least the first six months, as it makes nighttime feeding easier and may reduce SIDS risk.
  5. What to Avoid. Never smoke around your baby or in spaces where they sleep. Avoid overheating - dress your baby in light sleep clothing and check that they're not sweating or feeling hot to the touch. Don't rely on products marketed to reduce SIDS risk, as these haven't been proven effective. Avoid bed-sharing, even for breastfeeding - instead, bring baby to your bed for feeding, then return them to their own sleep space.