Warning - crib bumper pads

Do not use crib bumpers in cribs, bassinets and other sleep environments!  It is especially important to avoid the fluffy, cushiony (and often very expensive), fancy ones.  These fall in the same category as pillows and fluffy bedding, comforters and toys that can pose a safety threat to a sleeping baby who does not have the muscle and head control to move when breathing is compromised.

What You Need to Know

• Due to their lack of strength and motor development, infants may suffocate, choke and/or become strangled in a crib bumper.

• The Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Kids in Danger, American SIDS Institute, SIDS of Illinois, and the Canadian Health Department all warn parents not to use crib bumpers.  Read sleep safety tips here:  Kids in Danger

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is re-examining the safety of crib bumpers.

Some crib liners/bumpers are being made that are "breathable" and not "cushiony" - it's too early to say if this will solve the problem.  It looks like it would be safer but not really necessary since crib slats now are placed closer together to prevent baby's head from getting caught.  Here's an example of the alternative:

Warning on ALL Sleep Positioners 9/29/2010

Danger: Sleep positioners are NEVER safe to use. Babies may suffocate if they move and their airways become blocked by the sleep positioner.  Remedy: NEVER use a sleep positioner.