From the Guidelines
It is recommended to wait until a baby is at least 12 months old before introducing a blanket into their crib, as this reduces the risk of suffocation and SIDS. Before this age, blankets pose a significant risk as infants lack the motor skills to move them away from their face if they become covered 1. For younger babies, sleep sacks or wearable blankets are safer alternatives that provide warmth without the risks associated with loose bedding. When introducing a blanket at 12 months, choose a lightweight, breathable option rather than heavy quilts or comforters. The recommendation to wait until 12 months aligns with developmental milestones - by this age, most babies have developed sufficient motor skills to move objects away from their face and can roll over easily 1. Some key points to consider when creating a safe sleep environment for infants include:
- Keeping soft objects and loose bedding away from the infant’s sleep area to reduce the risk of SIDS, suffocation, entrapment, and strangulation 1
- Using infant sleep clothing, such as a wearable blanket, instead of blankets and other coverings to keep the infant warm while reducing the chance of head covering or entrapment that could result from blanket use 1
- Maintaining a bare crib with just a fitted sheet on a firm mattress provides the safest sleep environment for infants until they are at least 12 months old 1. Until then, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of the infant's sleep environment to minimize the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related hazards.
From the Research
Safe Sleep Practices for Infants
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a safe sleep environment for infants to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and unintentional sleep-related suffocation.
- Infants should sleep in a crib with a firm, flat mattress and a tight-fitting sheet.
- Soft objects, such as pillows, quilts, and comforters, should not be placed in the crib.
- The use of blankets in a crib is not recommended, especially for infants under 12 months of age.
Introduction of Blankets to a Baby's Crib
There is no specific age recommended for introducing a blanket into a baby's crib, as it is generally advised against using blankets in a crib due to the risk of SIDS and suffocation.
- A study published in 1994 found that the use of a wool 'waterproof' underblanket was associated with a reduced risk of SIDS, but this does not necessarily mean that blankets are safe for all infants 2.
- Another study published in 2009 found that using a sleep sack instead of a blanket can help regulate an infant's temperature and reduce the risk of SIDS 3.
Guidelines for Parents and Caregivers
Parents and caregivers should prioritize safe sleep practices for infants, including:
- Placing infants on their backs to sleep.
- Using a firm, flat mattress and a tight-fitting sheet.
- Avoiding soft objects, such as pillows and blankets, in the crib.
- Ensuring the crib is free from clutter and toys.
- Considering the use of a sleep sack instead of a blanket to regulate an infant's temperature, as seen in a study published in 2009 3.
- Being aware of the risks associated with bedding use, as highlighted in a study published in 2015 4.
Education and Awareness
Education and awareness about safe sleep practices are crucial for reducing the risk of SIDS and unintentional sleep-related suffocation.
- A study published in 2003 found that many child care providers were not aware of the risks associated with prone sleeping and the importance of a safe sleep environment 5.
- Another study published in 2006 highlighted the controversy surrounding safe sleep environments and the need for clear guidelines and education for parents and caregivers 6.