The content provided on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have and to learn more about your child's specific needs.

We’re sharing the ultimate guide to a safer sleep environment so that you are equipped and empowered with the information you need to make the best choices for your child.

1. Always place your baby on their back to sleep

It is recommended that babies should be placed on their backs for every sleep, including nap times. It’s important to follow the ABC’s of safe sleep: placing baby Alone, on their Back, in their Crib (or other safe sleeping place). If your child falls asleep in a swing, car seat, stroller, etc. they should be moved to a firm sleep surface as soon as possible. Remember, every sleep counts. 

2. Place your baby to sleep on a firm surface

All cribs, bassinets, portable cribs and/or play yards should meet current safety standards. Check to make sure that there are no product recalls, and that there are no broken or missing pieces. Drop rail cribs should not be used. Use a firm mattress that is compatible with the product you are using, and cover it in a tight-fitting fitted sheet. 

3. Keep loose objects out of the crib

Loose objects such as stuffed animals, toys, loose bedding, blankets, pillows and bumper pads can all increase the risk of entrapment, suffocation, overheating or strangulation.  Though stuffed toys and soft blankets may be cute to look at, just remember: Bare is Best!

4. Share your room, but not your bed

Room sharing (keeping your baby’s sleep area separate from your sleep area in the same room) is recommended as a way to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death. It is recommended to share a bedroom preferably until Baby turns 1, but at least for the first six months. Babies should not be placed on adult mattresses to sleep. If you bring your baby into your bed to feed them, make sure they’re put back into their separate sleeping area when you are finished.

5. Don’t let your baby get too hot

Keep the room temperature where your baby sleeps at a comfortable level. Don’t overdress your baby. A good rule of thumb to follow is to put on one extra layer of clothing than an adult would wear to be comfortable. Do not cover your baby’s head. Use a sleep sack or one-piece sleeper if you’re worried your baby is too cold.  

6. Breastfeed, if possible

While breastfeeding might not be an option for everyone, it has been proven to help reduce the risk of SIDS. This has been shown in babies who are breastfed or bottle-fed with breast milk for the first six months of life. Breastfeeding also has many other health benefits for babies and mothers.

7. Tummy time is important!

Giving your baby tummy time is a great way to socialize with your newborn and encourage lots of eye contact. It also helps strengthen neck muscles and avoid flat spots on the back of the head. Make sure you always stay next to your baby and make sure they are awake.

7. Use a smart baby monitor 

While nothing replaces safe sleep practices, many parents find added peace of mind in using smart baby monitoring technology. Owlet Dream Duo combines Dream Sock® and Dream Sight to provide 2K HD video and insights into your baby's sleep and well-being, helping you feel more connected and confident as a parent.

We hope these tips have helped! If you ever have any questions or concerns, please consult with your pediatrician. 

Owlet Dream Sock is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or other condition, including but not limited to, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and/or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Dream Sock should not substitute for the care and oversight of an adult or consultation with medical professionals.