When Can Babies Sleep with Pillows and Blankets?
As parents, we want to ensure our babies sleep safely and comfortably. A common question that arises is: when can babies start sleeping with pillows and blankets? The answer is crucial as it involves the safety and well-being of our little ones.
Expert Guidelines
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides clear guidelines on this topic. They recommend that babies should not sleep with blankets, pillows, crib bumpers, or stuffed animals for the first 12 months of life.
Product Safety Australia also makes similar recommendations about soft and padded surfaces in babies' sleeping area.
These items can increase the risk of accidental suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) –the most common cause of death in infants between one month and one year of age.
When Can Blankets Be Used for Children?
So, when is it safe to introduce these items? According to the AAP, the risk of SIDS decreases significantly after the first year. Parents can consider introducing a blanket for their children at this time.
However, you must ensure that the blanket is lightweight and not too large or fluffy. The blanket should be tucked around the crib mattress. It should only reach as far as the baby's chest to avoid covering their face during sleep.
When Can Pillows Be Used for Children?
The consensus among experts is to wait a bit longer before introducing pillows. Introducing pillows should be considered only when the child transitions from a crib to a toddler bed, typically around 18-24 months old.
Red Nose, Australia’s leading authority on safe sleep and safer pregnancy advice, recommends waiting until the age of two before introducing pillows where children sleep.
At this age, children have better motor skills and can move objects away from their faces, reducing the risk of suffocation.
What about Swaddling?
You can safely swaddle newborns and young infants. It involves snugly wrapping the baby in a blanket, leaving only the head exposed. Swaddling can provide a sense of security and warmth, potentially aiding in better sleep.
However, once a baby shows signs of trying to roll over, typically around two months old, you should discontinue swaddling. This is to prevent the risks associated with a baby rolling onto their stomach.
How to Keep Babies Warm Without Blankets?
Layering clothing is a safe alternative for parents looking to keep their babies warm without blankets.
The rule of thumb is to dress the baby in one more layer than an adult would wear in the same environment.
Additionally, maintaining the nursery temperature between 20 and 22 degrees Celcius can help ensure a comfortable sleep for the baby without needing blankets.
Safe Sleeping Practices for Babies
Here are some of the most widely recommended safe sleeping practices for babies:
Back to Sleep
Experts advise parents to place babies on their backs for every sleep, naps and nighttime alike. This position decreases the risk of SIDS significantly.
Firm Sleep Surface
Babies should sleep on a firm, flat surface. Soft mattresses, couches, or armchairs are unsafe as they increase the risk of suffocation. The mattress should fit snugly in the crib with no gaps.
The cot mattress should meet the voluntary Australian standard (AS/NZS 8811.1:2013) test for firmness. The cot itself must meet Australian standard AS/NZS 2172:2003.
Room-Sharing, Not Bed-Sharing
Experts recommend babies sleep in the same room as their parents for at least the first six months.
However, they don’t recommend sharing the same bed. Bed sharing can increase the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation. Babies should have their own cribs or bassinets.
Keep Soft Objects Out of the Crib
Pillows, blankets, bumper pads, and stuffed animals can obstruct a baby's breathing and should be kept out of the crib. You can use sleep clothing for your babies, like a wearable blanket or sleep sack.
Avoid Overheating
Overdressing a baby or in a hot room can increase the risk of SIDS. The room temperature should be comfortable for a lightly clothed adult, and babies should not have their heads covered during sleep.
Smoke-Free Environment
Exposure to smoke, both prenatal and postnatal, is a significant risk factor for SIDS. Ensuring a smoke-free environment can greatly reduce this risk.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced risk of SIDS.
Healthcare Follow-Up
Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help ensure that babies are developing normally. You and the pediatrician can promptly address any concerns about sleep and health.
Safe Sleep Practices for Toddlers
As toddlers transition from cribs to beds, the safety precautions change slightly from those recommended for infants. Here are some safe sleep practices for toddlers:
Proper Bedding
Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed means you can introduce a pillow and a light blanket.
However, you must ensure the bedding is appropriate for their age and size. Avoid heavy blankets that could pose a risk of overheating or suffocation.
Secure Sleeping Area
The toddler's bed should be sturdy, and the mattress should fit snugly within the frame. There should be no gaps where a toddler's head could get stuck. Guardrails can prevent falls, especially for children who move a lot during sleep.
Room Temperature
Keep the room at a comfortable temperature. Overheating can be a risk factor for SIDS, so it's best to avoid too much warmth. The recommended room temperature is between 20 to 22 degrees Celcius.
Safe Environment
Ensure the room is free from hazards. Secure furniture to the wall to prevent tipping. Keep cords out of reach. Likewise, ensure no small objects a toddler could choke on.
Nap Time
Toddlers still benefit from naps. Ensure that nap times are in a safe environment and follow similar precautions as nighttime sleep.
Smoke-Free Environment
Exposure to smoke can increase the risk of SIDS, so keep the toddler's sleeping environment smoke-free.
Takeaways
Follow the guidelines set by pediatric experts to ensure the safety of our babies when using pillows and blankets. Wait until the appropriate age to introduce these items. Take the necessary precautions to create a safe and cozy sleep environment for your little ones.
Always remember that your child's safety comes first. When in doubt, consult your pediatrician for personalised advice.