When Can You Put A Blanket In A Crib?

When Can You Put A Blanket In A Crib?

As a new parent, one of the many things you have to worry about is your baby’s safety. One common concern is when to start using blankets in the crib. I remember being confused about this too, so I did some research and talked to my pediatrician to find out the answer.

Step by Step Guide

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that you do not use any blankets or other soft bedding in the crib until your baby is at least one year old. This is because blankets can pose a suffocation risk to infants who are unable to move their heads away from the fabric.

Instead of blankets, the AAP recommends that you use a firm and flat sleep surface with a fitted sheet. This can include a crib, bassinet, or play yard. Dress your baby in a wearable blanket or one-piece sleeper to keep them warm.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Use a sleep-sack or wearable blanket for warmth instead of a loose blanket.
2. Make sure the sleep surface is flat and firm.
3. Use a fitted sheet that fits snugly over the mattress.
4. Do not use pillows or other soft bedding in the crib.
5. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, around 68-72°F (20-22.2°C).
6. Do not overdress your baby or cover their head while sleeping.
7. Consider using a pacifier at naptime and bedtime, as this has been shown to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
8. Position your baby on their back to sleep, as this also reduces the risk of SIDS.
9. Check on your baby regularly during sleep to ensure they are safe and comfortable.
10. Consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions about safe sleep practices.

Pros and Cons

The biggest advantage of not using blankets in the crib is that it reduces the risk of suffocation. Infants are not able to move their heads away from fabric that covers their face, so it is important to eliminate this risk altogether.

However, some parents may find it difficult to keep their baby warm without a blanket. In these cases, a wearable blanket or sleep-sack can provide warmth without the risk of suffocation. It is also important to note that using blankets too early can lead to other sleep-related risks, such as SIDS.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

As a new parent, I was initially worried about how to keep my baby warm without a blanket. However, I found that wearable blankets and sleep-sacks were a great solution and kept my baby cozy all night long. I also appreciated the peace of mind that came with knowing my baby was safe and not at risk of suffocation. Overall, I highly recommend following the AAP guidelines and waiting until your baby is at least one year old before introducing blankets to the crib.

FAQs

Q: When can I start using blankets in my baby’s crib?

A: The AAP recommends waiting until your baby is at least one year old before using blankets or other soft bedding in the crib.

Q: How can I keep my baby warm without a blanket?

A: Wearable blankets and sleep-sacks are a great alternative to traditional blankets and can provide warmth without the risk of suffocation.

Q: Why are blankets a suffocation risk for infants?

A: Infants are not able to move their heads away from fabric that covers their face, which can lead to suffocation. It is important to eliminate this risk altogether by not using blankets in the crib until your baby is at least one year old.