Why Baby Bumpers Could be a Risk for Your Newborn

As a parent, the safety and well-being of your newborn is your top priority. One item you may think is essential to your baby’s crib is a baby bumper. However, experts now caution against using baby bumpers due to potential safety risks.

Baby bumpers are padded bedding that attaches to each side of the crib to prevent your baby from hitting its head or limbs against the bars. While this may seem like a good idea, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents do not use them.

The concern is that baby bumpers can pose a suffocation risk for newborns, particularly those under four months. If a newborn rolls into one of these soft, pillow-like bumpers, they may not be able to breathe properly and could suffocate.

Another safety issue is that these bumpers may pose a strangulation hazard. If the ties used to attach the bumpers to the crib come loose, they could wrap around a baby’s neck and cause harm.

Instead of using baby bumpers, experts recommend that parents practice safe sleep practices, such as placing the baby on its back in a crib with a fitted sheet and no loose bedding or soft objects around them. If you feel that your baby needs extra cushion, you can use a tightly fitted, breathable mesh crib liner.

Baby bumpers might seem like a great idea, but when it comes to the safety of your newborn, it is better to err on the side of caution. By avoiding baby bumpers and practicing safe sleep methods, you can help ensure that your baby stays safe while they sleep.