Overdressing your baby may pose a risk for SIDS
According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), one of the National Institutes of Health, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death in infants between 1 month and 1 year of age and claims the lives of approximately 2,500 infants each year. SIDS is the sudden unexplained death of an infant in the first year of life. Most SIDS deaths happen when babies are between two and four months of age. Though the causes of SIDS are still unclear, it is possible to reduce factors that increase the risk of SIDS.
The NICHD states that overheating is one of the biggest risk factors for SIDS in cold weather.
“Parents and caregivers should be careful not to put too many layers of sleep clothing or blankets on infants-or to keep room temperatures too warm-because overheating increases the risk of SIDS,” said Duane Alexander, M.D., Director of the NICHD.
With a few months of cold weather left this season, here are some suggestions for keeping your baby’s body temperature where it should be:
- Do not let your baby overheat during sleep. Feel their skin occasionally to make sure they do not feel too warm.
- Keep your home’s temperature at a level that feels comfortable for you.
- Dress your child appropriately. If you feel warm in a long-sleeved jersey, your baby probably will too. There is no need for extra layers and blankets.
For more information about SIDS and how to address common risk factors, see the following NICHD Back to Sleep campaign publications:
- Safe Sleep for Your Baby: Ten Ways to Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Safe Sleep for Your Baby: What does a safe sleep environment look like? (PDF)
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