You should not give a baby under one year old a blanket in their crib or bassinet.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the recommendation is clear: babies under one year old should sleep in their own crib or bassinet with no blankets, pillows, bumpers, stuffed animals, or other soft objects. This is to minimize the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Safe Sleep Practices for Babies
Here's a summary of what the AAP recommends for safe sleep:
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Bare Crib: The crib or bassinet should be bare except for a fitted sheet. No loose bedding, blankets, pillows, or soft toys.
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Back to Sleep: Always place the baby on their back to sleep.
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Separate Sleep Surface: The baby should sleep in their own crib or bassinet, not in the parents' bed (room sharing is recommended, but not bed-sharing).
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Firm Mattress: Use a firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib.
Alternatives to Blankets
Instead of blankets, consider the following:
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Sleep Sacks or Wearable Blankets: These are designed to keep the baby warm without posing a suffocation risk.
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Appropriate Clothing: Dress the baby in layers suitable for the room temperature. A good rule of thumb is to dress the baby in one more layer than you would wear.
By following these guidelines, you can create a safer sleep environment for your baby.
