When your baby starts rolling over from their back to their side, they literally get a new perspective on the world! Your baby will be eager to use this new ability! And it is your job to minimize any and all possible risks.
Key takeaways
2 min- Adjust your baby's crib by lowering the mattress or raising side rails when they start rolling to prevent falls and injuries.
- Stop swaddling once your baby can roll over to prevent suffocation risks and allow proper motor skill development.
- Continue placing your baby on their back to sleep, but don't worry if they roll over naturally during sleep without swaddling.
- Use fitted onesies instead of loose blankets to reduce suffocation hazards while keeping your baby comfortable.
- Never leave your rolling baby unstrapped in car seats, bouncers, or other elevated surfaces, even momentarily.
When babies start rolling over, ensure safety by lowering the crib mattress, stopping swaddling immediately, continuing back-sleeping positioning, using onesies instead of blankets, and never leaving them unstrapped in seats or bouncers.
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Frequently asked questions
Stop swaddling immediately once your baby shows signs of rolling over, typically around 2-4 months. Continued swaddling after rolling begins can prevent them from turning back if they roll onto their stomach, increasing suffocation risk.
If your baby rolls onto their stomach naturally during sleep and is not swaddled, you don't need to reposition them. Babies who can roll over have developed enough neck and head control to sleep safely in this position.
Lower the crib mattress to its lowest setting or raise the side rails to prevent your baby from rolling out. Remove any loose bedding, bumpers, or toys that could pose suffocation hazards.
It's safer to use fitted onesies or sleep sacks instead of loose blankets. Blankets can cover your baby's face or become entangled, creating suffocation risks when they're actively rolling and moving.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Meet our medical expertsMedically reviewed content
Reviewed by healthcare professionals · Updated September 2, 2024
This article is based on peer-reviewed research and trusted medical sources.
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