How To Stop Baby Sleeping Face Down In 2023? | 4 Simple Ways

Facebook
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
Table of Contents
How to stop baby sleeping face down

A baby sleeping face down is a widespread problem. Babies don’t know how to sleep on their backs, so they try to sleep on their stomachs. They usually fall asleep this way, but it’s not good for them. Parents should know how to stop baby sleeping down.They can suffocate themselves, which is why it’s important to wake them up and help them learn how to sleep correctly.

I’ll explain how to stop baby sleeping face down. What are the reasons babies wish to sleep face down? When can babies sleep on their stomachs safely, and What are the best practices for baby sleep positioning? I’ll also discuss some important FAQs.

How to stop a baby from sleeping face down in 4 simple ways?

1. Try sleep training

Babies who prefer a tummy sleeping position can be trained to sleep in different places with some effort. Teaching toddlers is challenging, but you can speed up the process by using sleep training.

Sometimes parents want to use no-cry sleep training methods like the gentle pick up put down process, sleep training, or chair method sleep training. With these, it generally takes longer to get results. You’ll find faster ways to help your baby sleep better, like the Ferber or fading methods.

Consistency is critical, regardless of the training method you choose. You should keep trying and know that you are doing the best thing for your baby.

2. Swaddle your baby

If your baby has rolled onto their tummy, you can use a swaddle to help your baby to sleep on back. Most babies prefer to sleep on their stomachs, which is why you need to keep them from rolling over in this position. Baby swaddle is the first experience when sleeping, especially on their back. So, they may resist, but with time they feel comfortable, and sleep time will increase.

3. Safer Crib Mattress

There is a safer crib mattress that you can buy, but you have to make sure it has the correct size. This can help prevent babies from rolling over into their faces. If you purchase one of these mattresses, make sure that it fits the crib you have and that it is the right size for your baby. This will keep your baby safe from suffocation.

4. Schedule tummy time

An empty tummy may be the reason for your baby to sleep facing down. So, take care of the baby’s diet and feed the baby accordingly.

What are the reasons babies wish to sleep face down?

First, let’s clarify the term “baby sleeping face down.” We’re not referring to sleeping face-down. We mean that the baby is sleeping on their stomach rather than their back. Never put a baby to rest directly on their face. They can suffocate.

Babies like to sleep on their stomachs because it feels more natural. Some parents desperately try it when their baby doesn’t sleep because it helps reduce the startle reflex.

Most babies have a natural urge to sleep on their stomachs. When laid on their back, older babies try to flip to their bellies.

When can babies sleep on their stomachs safely?

If babies want to sleep facing up, there’s good news. If you have an infant, it’s essential that they only sleep on their back until they are 12 months old. Then it’s safe to let your little one put their sleeping spot on their tummy.

There is a limited risk for sudden infant death syndrome after one year. There is a chance this could be the case. Babies over 12 months old aren’t at high risk for suffocation when sleeping face down.

If you consistently see your baby roll from back to tummy or tummy to back, they do not require further flipping onto their back. There is nothing to stop a baby from sleeping on its stomach at this age, and the tummy sleeping position is safer in many cases.

What are the best practices for baby sleep positioning?

1. Empty crib

We know those awesome and cute stuffed animals, bumper pads, and crib blankets are looking good in the crib. However, when a baby is sleeping, it’s essential to ensure the crib is secured so it does not come in contact with any object. When you put your baby to sleep, the crib should be free of loose blankets, crib bumpers, soft toys, or other objects.

If you want your baby to stay safe and comfortable in their crib, you’ll need to make sure they have a crib that is appropriately fitted with a tightly-fitted crib sheet.

2. Ensure Baby sleep on back

A newborn baby should never be sleeping on their tummy, regardless of whether you are trying to improve sleep quality or not.

3. Dress baby appropriately

Newborns are vulnerable to overheating. Most parents worry their infant might get too cold. It isn’t good to dress your baby too warmly, as this will increase their body temperature.

Only use suitable blankets in the crib or dress your baby for sleep in multiple layers. Also, try not to wear anything you feel uncomfortable with during bedtime. Swaddling is also a great way to keep your baby calm and quiet.

4. Don't co-sleep

When your baby goes to sleep, it’s important to give yourself time to rest. Co-sleeping with your baby in bed isn’t safe.

If your child sleeps with you, the risk for suffocation is high. Parents are not supposed to roll over on their children. You may not realize that your baby’s face can get stuck in pillows or blankets.

There are products designed like baby cribs to allow you to snuggle up to your baby and stay close to her at night. This makes you feel close to your newborn while keeping them safe.

5. Don't use car seats for a long sleep

This is a danger for babies that sleep in the car for a long time. This is due to the car seat’s position, which can place the baby’s head at high risk. During their sleep, their head might drop forward, obstructing their airway.

Is it fine for babies to sleep on their side?

Babies shouldn’t sleep on their sides. Babies should sleep on their backs. To do otherwise increases the risk of SIDS.

Is it good for a baby to sleep face down?

If your baby is younger than one year, it’s perfectly normal for them to sleep face down. It would help if you didn’t worry about it. They’re fine as long as they’re breathing well. 

But suppose you notice any of the following symptoms. In that case, it’s time to wake them up and help them learn how to sleep correctly. Babies who are sleeping face down should be woken up if:

  • They’re not breathing
  • They’re blue in the face
  • Their breathing sounds different from normal
  • There is much mucus in their nose and mouth
  • Their stomach feels hard

What causes a baby to sleep face down?

Most babies have trouble sleeping on their backs because they’re still developing, and their bodies aren’t strong enough. They don’t have the muscle strength to keep their heads up and support their neck. This is why many babies sleep face down. It’s not always due to being lazy, however. Babies who sleep in this position usually have an illness or a respiratory condition that prevents them from breathing correctly.

At what age can a baby sleep on its stomach?

The time when babies can sleep on their stomachs varies from one child to another. Some babies can sleep on their stomachs at around 7 or 8 months, while others won’t be able to do it until they’re 10 months old. It’s recommended to stop babies from sleeping face down until they turn one year old. After 12 months, it’s fine to sleep on their stomach.

When should I worry about my baby sleeping face down?

There are several signs that your baby is getting ready to roll to his stomach while sleeping: 

  • The baby seems sleepy and sluggish 
  • They look uncomfortable 
  • Baby legs are crossed

If your baby shows any of these signs, it’s time to start waking him up and helping him learn how to sleep correctly. When you wake him up, lay them on their back so they can learn how to sleep correctly.

How to help your baby sleep on his back?

If you want to teach your baby how to sleep on his back, you can take some simple steps:

  1. Ensure a firm mattress supports the baby’s back when he lays down.
  2. Keep him warm by using a warm blanket or wrap.
  3. Place the baby in a crib or bassinet with a firm mattress.

Conclusion

If you want to know how to stop a baby from sleeping face down, then you need to know that it is natural for babies to sleep this way. Babies don’t have any control over it. However, you can teach them to sleep on their backs by using a few simple techniques I have discussed above in the article. 

You’ll find that most of the techniques that you learn will work on the first day. I hope this article is beneficial for you. If you have any questions, kindly ask them in the comment section. Thanks for visiting 🙂

Leave a Comment