The safe sleep checklist covers all AAP 2022 recommendations for creating a safe sleep environment for your baby. Check each item to see your compliance rate and identify any risk factors to address.
Safe Sleep Environment Checklist
How to Create a Safe Sleep Environment
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and sleep-related deaths claim approximately 3,500 infants per year in the US. The AAP safe sleep guidelines are the single most evidence-based set of recommendations for reducing this risk. Following them consistently — every sleep, every caregiver — is the goal.
Back to Sleep, Every Sleep
Placing baby on their back to sleep is the single most important safe sleep practice. The "Back to Sleep" campaign reduced SIDS rates by more than 50% after its launch in 1994. Always place your baby on their back — not their side, not their tummy — until they can roll over independently. Once they can roll both ways, it's OK for them to find their own position, but always start them on their back.
Firm Flat Surface Only
Baby should sleep on a firm, flat sleep surface: a crib, bassinet, or play yard that meets CPSC safety standards. No inclined sleepers (recalled for infant deaths), no bouncers, no car seats for routine sleep, no adult beds. The sleep surface should have a fitted sheet and nothing else.
Room Share, Don't Bed Share
The AAP recommends having baby sleep in your room (in their own sleep space) for at least the first 6 months. This room-sharing setup — without bed-sharing — reduces SIDS risk by up to 50%. If you fall asleep while feeding, move baby to their safe sleep space as soon as you wake up.
FAQ
Is this safe sleep checklist free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
What are the AAP safe sleep guidelines?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2022 safe sleep guidelines recommend: always place baby on their back to sleep, use a firm flat sleep surface, keep the sleep area free of soft objects and loose bedding, share a room but not a bed, avoid smoke/alcohol/drug exposure, breastfeed if possible, and offer a pacifier.
Is room-sharing safe for babies?
Yes — the AAP recommends room-sharing (baby sleeps in parents' room in their own sleep space) for at least the first 6 months, ideally the first year. Room-sharing reduces SIDS risk by approximately 50%. This is different from bed-sharing, which the AAP advises against for healthy infants.
Are sleep positioners or wedges safe for babies?
No. The FDA and AAP warn against all sleep positioners, wedges, and anti-roll devices marketed for babies. These products have been associated with infant deaths. A baby should sleep on a flat, firm surface without any positioning devices.
Are crib bumpers safe?
No. Both padded and mesh crib bumpers are associated with infant deaths and are not recommended by the AAP. As of 2022, many states have banned the sale of crib bumper pads. Remove all bumpers from your baby's sleep space.
At what age does the safe sleep setup change?
The AAP recommends following safe sleep guidelines until at least age 1. After 12 months, the risk of SIDS decreases significantly and many of the restrictions relax. However, always follow your pediatrician's guidance based on your child's specific development.