You can give your baby a blanket safely once they are at least 12 months old. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against using any loose bedding, including blankets, in a baby's crib before 12 months due to the risk of suffocation, strangulation, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Babies under one year typically do not have the motor skills to move blankets off their faces, which makes blankets unsafe. After 12 months, when your baby has developed the strength and motor skills to move a blanket off themselves, it is generally considered safe to introduce a blanket. Some experts recommend waiting until 18 months or even 2 years for additional safety. When starting, you can introduce a blanket during playtime and naps before using it at bedtime. Until your baby is old enough for a blanket, you can keep them warm by layering clothing, using wearable sleep sacks, and maintaining a comfortable room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. In summary:
- Avoid blankets until at least 12 months old.
- Introduce blankets gradually once baby can move it off their face.
- Use alternatives like swaddles or sleep sacks for warmth before 12 months.
- Keep the sleep environment safe and free of loose bedding during the first year.