Safe Sleep: Why Back Is Best Still Wins

Tyria LockhartTyria Lockhartยท

Since the Back to Sleep campaign began in the early 1990s, sudden infant death rates have fallen by more than half. Placing babies on their backs is the single most effective step parents can take.

The rule holds for naps and night sleep alike.

  • Back sleeping keeps the airway open and clear
  • Side sleeping is unstable and can roll to the stomach
  • Every caregiver should follow the same routine
  • A firm flat mattress with a fitted sheet is all the crib needs

Consistency matters across every nap and every caregiver. Back to sleep, every sleep, is the habit that has already saved thousands of lives.

The reduction in infant sleep deaths over the last three decades is one of the clearest wins in public health. Following the same back-sleep rule for every nap is how families keep that progress going.