You’ve just welcomed your baby into the world and it’s time for them to get some rest. But what do you use to keep your little one warm and cozy? Some parents choose to swaddle their babies, while others opt for a light blanket. Baby’s Sleep TimeIf you’re wondering when is the right time to introduce a blanket for your baby’s sleep time, we have the answers you need.
When To Introduce A Blanket For Baby
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies sleep on their backs until their first birthday. During this period, it is safest not to use any loose bedding in the crib—including blankets and pillows—as they can increase the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Once your baby reaches 12 months old, it is generally safe to start introducing soft bedding such as a thin blanket or comforter. However, there are still some important safety considerations you should take into account before doing so.
Safety Considerations
Securely tuck all loose bedding items such as blankets and comforters beneath the mattress when putting together your baby’s sleeping space to ensure they do not come up over your baby’s head or body during sleep.
Additionally, make sure that all blankets are made from lightweight material that won’t be too hot for your child during sleep.
You also want to ensure that any toys or stuffed animals in the crib don’t have small pieces that could be a choking hazard for your child if swallowed.
What Else To Avoid
In addition to avoiding loose blankets in the crib until after 12 months old, here are some other items you should avoid using with infants under 12 months old: pillows, bumpers pads, positioners, sheepskins or quilts/comforters.
These items can pose additional risks of suffocation and entrapment since they can easily slip over an infant’s face or body during sleep.
Instead of these items, consider using wearable blankets instead which are designed specifically for infants and babies up until 12 months old
Overall, when it comes time to introduce a blanket for your baby’s sleep time, wait until they reach at least 12 months old before doing so. Make sure all bedding items such as blankets and comforters are lightweight and properly tucked beneath the mattress to prevent them from coming up over your child’s head or body during sleep.
Additionally, avoid using pillows, bumpers pads, positioners, sheepskins or quilts/comforters with infants under 12 months old as these can pose additional risks of suffocation or entrapment instead consider using wearable blankets specifically designed for infants up until 12 months old when possible.
With proper precautions taken you can have peace of mind knowing that you’ve provided a safe environment for your little one!
