A large part of the danger, experts say, is mattresses and bedding are softer and cushier these days.

Patrick Kunzer | Staff Photographer

Kakuna Smith, 34, of Dolton holds a picture of her 11-week-old baby girl, Kamilah Gilmore, who died while she was sleeping in Smith's bed. She worries she may have rolled over on Kamilah.

Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer

A provocative billboard advertisement campaign launched by SIDS of Illinois points out the dangers of co-sleeping for babies.

Courtesy of SIDS of Illinois

Kakuna Smith, 34, of Dolton to this day believes the death of her 11-week-old baby girl, Kamilah Gilmore, was her fault as the baby was in her bed, though it was attributed to SIDS.

Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer

Kakuna Smith, 34, of Dolton smiles as she holds a stuffed animal that was at the memorial service for her 11-week-old baby girl, Kamilah Gilmore, who died while she was sleeping in Smith's bed in 2005.

Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer

This is a picture of Kamilah Gilmore, who died while she was sleeping in bed with her mother Kakuna Smith, 34, of Dolton.

Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer

Not all agree that bringing infants into bed with you is dangerous, but most agree some precautions should be taken at the very least.

Patrick Kunzer | Staff Photographer