CPSC: Parents Using an Inclined Sleeper Need to Take This Safety Measure

A helpful reminder about safe sleep from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today: If you choose to use an inclined sleep product, always make sure baby is properly restrained.

Luckily, there is no major incident or tragedy prompting this alert, although the CPSC is aware babies have passed away after rolling over and suffocating in an inclined sleeper. Inclined sleepers are bassinet-like products that are inclined, of course, to elevate baby’s head and torso. The CPSC clarifies that they’re safe as long as baby is properly buckled in with the restraint.

“Parents can be surprised and may not know the exact moment their baby first rolls over,” the CPSC alert reads. “Therefore always use the restraint and adjust it to fit snugly to keep the baby face up, with the baby’s face free to breathe when baby is placed in an inclined sleeper.”

In addition, parents should stop using inclined sleepers when they notice baby has the ability to roll over.

Wondering if you can just get away with sticking a wedge in baby’s crib to create a similar type of incline? Keep in mind that is not the same thing, and strongly discouraged. Both the CPSC and FDA advise against infant sleep positioners, which can pose a suffocation hazard. Babies have suffocated within them, and they’ve also posed an entrapment hazard when used in cribs.

“The two most common types of sleep positioners feature raised supports or pillows (called ‘bolsters’) that are attached to each side of a mat, or a wedge to raise a baby’s head,” the FDA explains. “The positioners are intended to keep a baby in a specific position while sleeping and are intended for infants under 6 months old.”

The takeaway: Sleep positioners are bad, but inclined sleepers are okay. Just remember to always place baby to sleep on her back and properly secure her inside.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.