Evie Summers
There are differing opinions on whether a 10-month-old should sleep with a blanket. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies under 12 months should not sleep with a blanket, as it may increase the risk of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Pediatricians and child safety experts agree with this recommendation, stating that infants lack the motor skills and strength to free themselves if a blanket obstructs their breathing. However, some parents introduce blankets to their babies earlier, around 7 months, especially if their baby moves a lot or gets cold at night. Some parents also choose to swaddle their infants, which can be safer than a blanket if the baby has not yet tried to roll over.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safe age for a baby to sleep with a blanket | 12 months or older |
| Risk of sleeping with a blanket before 12 months | Increase the risk of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) |
| Alternative to a blanket for a baby under 12 months | Wearable blankets, sleep sacks, swaddle |
| Safe sleeping position for a baby under 12 months | On their back |
| Safe sleeping environment for a baby under 12 months | Crib, bassinet, play yard, firm mattress |
| Safe items in a baby's crib | Pacifier, thin tight-fitting mattress pad |
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What You'll Learn
The risk of SIDS and suffocation
Loose bedding and soft objects in the crib, such as blankets, pillows, quilts, comforters, and stuffed toys, can also cause entrapment, where a baby becomes tangled or trapped, and strangulation. Even after a baby learns to roll over, it is important to continue following safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of SIDS and suffocation. The AAP recommends placing babies on their backs for sleep and using a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly in the crib. The crib should be free of loose items, and a fitted sheet should be used to cover the mattress.
To keep babies warm without using blankets, parents can dress them in layers of clothing, using one more layer than an adult would wear in the same environment. Wearable blankets, such as sleeping sacks or warm sleeper clothing, can also be used as long as they are the right size for the baby and do not cover the head. It is important to avoid overheating, as this can also increase the risk of SIDS. The ideal room temperature for a baby is between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius, and it is recommended to use layers of lightweight blankets or well-fitting baby sleeping bags instead of heavy bedding.
While some parents introduce blankets to their babies before the age of one, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and follow recommendations from trusted sources, such as the AAP, to ensure the safety of the child.
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Safe alternatives to blankets
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that it is unsafe for a baby under one year to sleep with a blanket. The risk of SIDS is highest between one and four months, with 90% of SIDS deaths occurring before six months of age.
- Wearable blankets or sleep sacks: These are recommended by the AAP to replace blankets and reduce the risk of suffocation. They are sleeveless to prevent overheating and come in different fabrics for different seasons. They are also washable, affordable, and easily available in most baby stores.
- Swaddling: Swaddling is the practice of snugly wrapping a baby in a blanket for warmth and security, leaving only their head exposed. It can be safer than using a loose blanket, especially if your baby has not yet tried to roll over.
- Firm mattress: Using a firm mattress in your baby's crib can help reduce the risk of suffocation and keep temperatures down. Make sure the mattress fits snugly in the crib with no gaps, and avoid memory foam, which can be too soft and pose a safety hazard.
- Pacifiers: Pacifiers can help soothe your baby to sleep and have been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics: If you do decide to use a blanket for a baby over one year old, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like organic cotton or muslin. Avoid anything too fluffy or large, which can wrap around your baby and pose a hazard.
- Maintain a comfortable room temperature: Keep your baby's room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Overheating is a risk factor for SIDS, as babies cannot regulate their body temperature like adults.
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When to transition to a toddler bed
It is generally advised that babies under 12 months old should not sleep with a blanket. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that it is not safe for a baby under one year old to sleep with a blanket, as it increases the likelihood of accidental suffocation. This is because babies under one year old have not developed the muscle strength and coordination to deal with crib items, and their brains are not developed enough to wake them from sleep if they are in a dangerous situation, such as having their face covered by a blanket.
Once a baby reaches the toddler stage, the transition to a toddler bed can be considered. Most toddlers will be ready to move to a bed between 2 and 4 years old. Research shows that waiting until they are closer to 3 years old can help make the transition smoother, with fewer bedtime struggles, fewer night wakings, and longer stretches of night sleep.
Some signs that your toddler may be ready for a bed include:
- They have outgrown their crib and are too big to be lifted in and out.
- They are regularly climbing out of the crib, which is no longer a safe sleeping space for them.
- They are asking for a "big kid" bed, perhaps because they have seen a friend or sibling with one, or because they feel the crib is for babies.
- They are unable to get out of the crib to go to the bathroom when they need to.
If you notice these signs, you can start preparing your toddler for the transition by talking to them about it. Explain that moving to a toddler bed is a sign that they are becoming a big kid and that you expect them to follow certain rules, such as staying in bed after you leave the room for the night. You can also use positive reinforcement, such as a sticker chart, to motivate them to stay in their new bed.
To ensure a safe transition, you can start by using the toddler bed for naptime only, gradually transitioning to full-time use. It is important to childproof your toddler's room and the surrounding areas to address any safety concerns now that they can get out of bed on their own.
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Swaddling and safe sleep positions
It is generally recommended that babies under one year old should not sleep with loose blankets as they increase the risk of accidental suffocation. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that babies under one year old should not sleep with blankets. The incidence of crib deaths drops drastically after this age.
Swaddling is a popular technique that involves snugly wrapping a baby in a blanket, leaving only their head exposed. It helps babies feel safe and secure, mimicking the comfort of the womb, and can also prevent them from being startled awake. It is important to follow safe swaddling practices, and to stop swaddling when the baby starts to roll over. Transitional swaddles can be used for older babies who are starting to roll but still sleep better with a swaddle.
It is recommended that babies are placed on their backs to sleep, as this helps to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Babies should be placed on their backs until they are able to roll onto their stomachs by themselves. Once a baby can flip from their back to their tummy, it is fine to let them sleep on their belly, as this means they are strong enough to avoid suffocation and move their head if their face is pressed into a mattress.
Some parents introduce blankets to their babies before they turn one. This may be because their baby gets cold at night, even in warm pyjamas, or because the baby refuses to sleep on their back and needs a blanket to sleep. If you are concerned about your baby's sleep, it is important to talk to your pediatrician.
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Creating a warm sleep environment without a blanket
It is not recommended that babies under 12 months old use blankets while sleeping, as this increases the likelihood of accidental suffocation and strangulation. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that it is not safe for a baby to sleep with a blanket while they are less than a year old. SIDS most frequently affects babies between birth and six months, but deaths may still occur in infants up to 12 months old.
- Dress your baby in layers of clothing, such as a vest under their pajamas or a baby-grow with feet.
- Use a firm mattress in your baby's crib, which can help regulate temperature and reduce the risk of suffocation. Make sure the mattress fits snugly in the crib with no gaps, and is not made of memory foam, which can be too soft and pose a safety hazard.
- Swaddling your baby can provide warmth and security, but only do this if your baby has not yet started rolling over. Make sure their head remains uncovered.
- Use a sleep sack or wearable blanket, which provides warmth without the risks associated with loose bedding. Make sure the sleep sack fits properly and cannot come off or create a choking hazard.
- If your baby is old enough to roll over, you can use a baby sleeping bag or safe sleep sack that fastens to prevent them from slipping down. Choose the right 'tog' rating for the ambient temperature and your baby's needs.
- A pacifier may help your baby sleep and can even reduce the risk of SIDS.
Remember, every child is different, and it is always best to consult with your pediatrician for tailored advice.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not safe for a baby to sleep with a blanket until they are at least 12 months old. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that sleeping with a blanket before this age increases the likelihood of accidental suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
You can keep your baby's room between 68 and 72 degrees at night. Babies only need one more layer than adults to keep warm. So, if you're comfortable in pajamas with a blanket, they'll be okay with a onesie layered under a sleeper and a sleep sack or swaddle.
Sleep sacks are excellent alternatives to blankets for infants under 12 months old. They are designed to keep babies warm without the risks associated with loose bedding. They are also available in different materials, such as fleece, to provide extra warmth.
Even when your baby is older than 12 months, you should be cautious about the type of blanket you provide. Avoid blankets with long strings or ribbons on the edges as they can wrap around and choke the child. Also, consider the size, thickness, fabric type, and edging of the blanket.
