Safe sleep: 7 rules against sudden infant death syndrome

Sudden infant death syndrome is one of the most common types of death in the first year of infant life. Most often it happens while the child is sleeping. With our seven rules for safe sleep, you can reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

Sudden infant death syndrome: cause is unknown

Even though deaths have decreased in recent years, sudden infant death syndrome is still one of the most common causes of death in infancy.

Doctors speak of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when a healthy baby dies unexpectedly and for no apparent reason. Most deaths occur between the ages of two and four months, with boys being affected more often than girls. The risk decreases with age.

Until now, there has been no clear medical explanation for these sudden deaths. However, a 2022 study may have uncovered the cause. Researchers have found that a certain enzyme (butyrylcholinesterase) is responsible for sudden infant death syndrome. If this enzyme is missing in the child's body or if there is a deficiency, the automatic wake-up mechanism is disturbed when breathing stops. The research team now wants to work on solutions that can prevent the sudden death of infants. Until the first results are available, parents can help reduce the risk.

How to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome

Since an infant sleeps 16 to 19 hours a day during the first months of life, the risk of sudden infant death syndrome is greatest during the sleep phases.

With our seven rules for safe sleep, which have been derived from scientific research results, the risk can be significantly reduced.

Rule 1: Lie on your back to sleep

The supine position has been proven to be the safest sleeping position for your baby in the first year. But feel free to put it on its stomach when it is awake.

Rule 2: Sleep in a sleeping bag

Blankets are often too warm for infants. In addition, your baby can slip under the blanket and no longer breathe properly. Your child sleeps more safely in a sleeping bag.

Rule 3: Protect against tobacco smoke

Never allow smoking in your child's bedroom. The risks of passive smoking for adults are well known – and many times higher for your baby. In newborns, nicotine can even directly interfere with breathing control.

Rule 4: Bed on a firm surface

Do not build your child a "nest" out of pillows, fur or other soft cushions. It can sink into it. It lies securely on a firm surface.

Rule 5: Protect against overheating

Refrain from wearing hats, gloves or similar clothing when you put your child to sleep. While sleeping, a room temperature of 16 to 18 degrees Celsius is optimal.

The best way to check body temperature is between your baby's shoulder blades: the skin there should be dry and warm, but not moist.

Rule 6: Let them sleep in a cot in the parents' bedroom

Having your own cot in your bedroom is ideal for baby sleep: this way you will notice sleep disorders at an early stage.

Rule 7: Breastfeed the baby

By breastfeeding, you are not only feeding your baby optimally. They also offer him the necessary physical contact.

In our flyer "Safe sleep" you will find more important information.