Have you ever wondered if these products are safe for your baby? Join us as we delve into the risks associated with crib bumpers and inclined sleepers in detail. Crib bumpers and inclined sleepers are two products that have been linked to an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In 2022, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the sale of both products in the United States.
In this article we will discuss the safety concerns surrounding crib bumpers and inclined sleepers, and provide parents with safe alternatives.
What is an inclined sleeper?
An inclined sleeper is a product that is designed to keep a baby in an elevated position while sleeping. Inclined sleepers are often marketed as being helpful for reflux or gas, but there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
Are inclined sleepers safe?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend the use of inclined sleepers, and they have also been linked to a number of infant deaths.
Inclined sleepers can increase the risk of SIDS, since the inclined or elevated position can make breathing difficult for infants. These types of sleepers can also trap the baby’s head against the mattress, causing suffocation.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has banned the sale of inclined sleepers for infants under the age of 12 months. The CPSC also recommends that parents stop using inclined sleepers for older infants, as they are still a safety hazard. So parents, let´s be careful!
What is a crib bumper?
A crib bumper is a piece of fabric and cushion that is placed around the inside of a crib to prevent an infant from bumping their head. However, crib bumpers can actually increase the risk of SIDS.
This is because crib bumpers create a soft, enclosed space that can trap an infant’s head. Additionally, they can become loose and entangled around an infant’s body, which can also lead to suffocation.
Are crib bumpers safe?
In addition to inclined sleepers, the AAP also discourages the use of crib bumpers. In fact, the AAP specifically states that “crib bumpers should never be used for infants’ cribs — not any kind, not at any time.”
There are a number of reasons why crib bumpers are considered unsafe:
- Crib bumpers can increase the risk of suffocation. If a baby rolls over and becomes wedged against a bumper, their nose and mouth can be blocked, making it difficult to breathe.
- They can create a space where a baby’s head can get trapped, leading to strangulation.
- They can interfere with the airflow around a baby, making it more difficult for them to regulate their temperature.
Crib bumpers and inclined sleepers are not safe for infants. The CPSC has banned the sale of both products in the United States due to the increased risk of SIDS.
Safe alternatives to crib bumpers and inclined sleepers
There are a number of safe alternatives to crib bumpers and inclined sleepers. These include:
- A fitted sheet: the safest way to keep an infant’s head from bumping the sides of the crib.
- A rolled towel: can be placed under the mattress to create a gentle incline, but it should not be placed higher than 10 degrees.
- A breathable mesh crib liner: can help to prevent an infant’s head from getting caught between the mattress and the crib slats.
Parents should always follow the safe sleep guidelines to reduce the risk of SIDS. These guidelines include:
- Placing babies to sleep on their backs.
- Using a firm, flat surface for sleep.
- Avoiding soft bedding, such as pillows, blankets, and crib bumpers.
- Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature.
- Not smoking around babies.
By following these guidelines, parents can keep their babies safe and healthy.
To find out more about baby safety, sleep, routine and other topics of interest for parents and caregivers, be sure to download the Kinedu app!
