By Wond PregWe’re still unsure exactly what makes SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) occur, but the best research we have suggests the best way to keep a baby safe is to place her on her back during sleep until her first birthday. This should be on a firm sleep surface, free of any loose or soft objects (including blankets, stuffed animals, pillows, crib bumpers, etc.), and ideally in the parents’ room until the baby is at least six months old. Avoid placing babies to sleep on couches, armchairs, or other soft surfaces. If you are holding a baby and start to fall asleep yourself, it’s safest to put the baby down in a safe place, ideally as soon as you feel sleepy but definitely as soon as you wake up. Research also suggests that breastfeeding babies until six months as well as pacifier use during sleep can help reduce SIDS risk. Maternal smoking is an independent risk factor for SIDS in infants. No recommendations can be made for bedside or in-bed sleepers, and bed-sharing is NOT recommended for any infant.