As many parents know, babies often love to sleep in the car. The droning sounds of the engine remind your little one of the womb—and may help send them into slumberland. And the jiggly movements seems to keep babies stimulated enough to promote breathing. The thing is, sleeping in a car seat for long stretches is actually unsafe, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The danger stems from your little one snoozing in an upright, seated position or on an incline.

“When your baby is seated, their heavy head can fall forward causing difficulty breathing…and even suffocation,” explains Dr. Harvey Karp. “That’s why car seats—outside of moving cars—are not safe for naps or overnight sleep for the first year of life.”

The same risk holds true for babies taking long sleeps in upright strollers and baby swings. The good news is that your wee one can still enjoy gentle rocking similar to, say, a car or baby swing, but while flat on the back with SNOO Smart Sleeper. It's a perfectly safe way to boost your baby’s sleep with the womb-like rocking all infants love.

That said, don’t panic if your baby dozes off in the car! The AAP recommends that you simply move your child to a flat, firm sleeping surface as soon as you leave the vehicle.

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.