Soft bedding, plastic bags, inflated balloons, and tight spaces can all suffocate a baby. Infants lack the strength to move away from things covering their face. Keep plastic bags tied up and out of reach, and never let a baby play with uninflated or popped balloons.
Related Terms
A set of practices that reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths. The basics: put your baby on their back on a firm, flat surface with no blankets, pillows, bumpers, or toys. Room-sharing without bed-sharing is recommended for at least the first 6 months.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby, usually during sleep. It's the leading cause of death for infants between 1 and 12 months. Following safe sleep guidelines like putting babies on their backs and keeping cribs clear of loose bedding cuts the risk significantly.
When a baby gets stuck between, under, or inside objects like crib slats, furniture gaps, or window coverings. Entrapment can restrict breathing and cause suffocation. Crib slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, and gaps between mattresses and bed frames need to be eliminated.
A safe crib meets current safety standards with slats spaced no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, a firm mattress that fits snugly with no gaps, and no drop sides. Keep the crib free of pillows, stuffed animals, and bumper pads. Check for recalls before using any secondhand crib.