As winter settles into Crawford County, many families begin layering up and turning up the heat to stay warm. For parents and caregivers of infants, this season brings an important question: How do we keep babies warm without compromising safe sleep?

Each year, accidental suffocation and unsafe sleep environments contribute to infant deaths across the country. The cold weather can make it tempting to add extra blankets, pillows, or cozy accessories — but these items can put your baby at risk.

Ohio Data: Why Safe Sleep Matters

To understand how urgent this issue is, it helps to look at the data for our state:

  • On average, more than three Ohio infants die each week due to sleep-related causes.
  • According to the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, there are over 125 sleep-related infant deaths in Ohio per year.
  • Over a 5-year period, Ohio recorded more than 600 sleep-related infant deaths.
  • Sleep-related deaths are the third-highest cause of infant mortality in Ohio.
  • Also, in many of those cases where the infant was found in a crib or bassinet, 84% had objects in the sleep space (blankets, pillows, etc.).

These numbers underscore how common—and preventable—sleep-related infant deaths are in our state. During the cold months, well-intentioned practices like adding extra blankets or encouraging co-sleeping to share warmth can increase risk.

Here at Crawford County Public Health, we want to share simple, reliable ways to keep your infant safe and warm during our Ohio winters.

1. Always Follow the ABCs of Safe Sleep

Even in cold weather, these rules do not change:

  • A — Alone: Your baby should sleep alone, with no pillows, stuffed animals, blankets, or adult bedding.
  • B — Back: Place your baby on their back for every sleep — nap or night.
  • C — Crib: Use a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard with a firm mattress and fitted sheet.

Soft bedding meant for warmth can accidentally obstruct an infant’s airway. Keeping sleep spaces clear saves lives.

2. Dress Your Baby in Layers — Not Loose Blankets

A good rule of thumb: Dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear in the same room.

Safe alternatives include:

  • Long-sleeve onesies
  • Footed pajamas
  • Wearable blankets or sleep sacks (fleece or cotton depending on room temperature)

Sleep sacks provide warmth without adding loose bedding to the crib. Avoid weighted sleep sacks or products with added padding.

3. Keep the Room Comfortably Cool

It may feel natural to turn up the thermostat when temperatures drop, but overheating is a known risk factor for infant sleep-related deaths.

Aim for a room temperature that is comfortable for a lightly clothed adult — usually 68–72°F.

Signs a baby is too warm:

  • Sweating
  • Damp hair
  • Flushed cheeks
  • Rapid breathing

If in doubt, remove a layer rather than adding one.

4. Avoid Hats and Hooded Clothing During Sleep

While hats are great for outdoor outings, infants should not wear hats, hooded outfits, or bulky coats during sleep. These items:

  • Can slide down and block the baby’s nose and mouth
  • Trap heat and contribute to overheating

Once indoors, remove hats, bibs, and outerwear before placing babies in their crib or bassinet.

5. Check for Safe Sleep Every Time

Whether your baby falls asleep in a car seat, swing, stroller, or your arms during late-night feedings, always move them to a safe sleep space as soon as possible.  Upright or cushioned surfaces can allow a baby’s head to fall forward, making breathing difficult.

A Final Word

Winter in Ohio can be long and cold, but keeping your baby safe doesn’t have to be complicated. By following proven safe sleep practices and using safe warming strategies, you can protect your child from preventable risks while ensuring they sleep comfortably.

Thank you for working with us to keep Crawford County’s youngest residents healthy and safe all year long.