According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, parents should follow the ABCs of safe sleep: Babies should sleep alone, on their back, and in their own crib or bassinet that is free of extras like blankets, bumpers, and stuffed animals. The AAP also recommends room-sharing with your baby until they are at least six months old, but ideally for the first year of their life. You also should not allow your baby to fall asleep on nursing pillows or place them on a soft surface like a couch or armchair.