Health library

Learn what not to put in a baby's crib

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a leading cause of death among infants 1 to 12 months old in the U.S. A safe crib can help reduce the risk of this sleep-related tragedy.

Safe cribs, safe sleep

Set the stage for safe sleep by banishing these five items from your baby's crib.

Stuffed toys.
Pillows.
Blankets, quilts, comforters or sheepskins.
Bumper pads.
Loose sheets.

It's also crucial to always put a baby on his or her back to sleep. It's the safest sleep position for an infant—for naps and at night.

Learn more about SIDS and safe sleep.

Reviewed 7/7/2025

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "About SUID and SIDS." https://www.cdc.gov/sudden-infant-death/about/index.html.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "National Vital Statistics System." https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/dvs/lcwk/lcwk4_hr_2017-508.pdf
HealthyChildren.org. "How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained." https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx.
MedlinePlus. "Sudden Infant Death Syndrome." https://medlineplus.gov/suddeninfantdeathsyndrome.html.