As a parent, you may be concerned about each product you bring in for the baby. However, maintaining a big list could be difficult. Therefore, we bring you a list of dangerous baby products to ease your trouble. Although one may think small toys, flame-retardant clothes, and BPA plastic bottles as hazardous products for babies, you would be surprised to know that even frequently used baby products pose a risk. These products are available in most consignment shops. Since some may not meet the government safety standards, scrutiny is important. We have listed such products in this post that you must be aware of for the baby’s safety.
1. Crib Tents
Why They Are Dangerous: Crib tents are intended to keep the toddlers from climbing out of the cribs, but they can also become death traps. The constant pulling and poking by the little fingers can tear apart the mesh. And if your little one tries to get out, he can get trapped or tangled. What To Use Instead: If your kid has the habit of climbing out of the crib, then get him a toddler bed. The bed looks like a regular bed but comes with a crib mattress.
2. Sleep Positioner
Why They Are Dangerous: These wedged or flat mats are designed to keep the infant on his back during sleep. It claims to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and colic diseases too. But no research supports these claims. On the contrary, sleep positioners increase the likelihood of suffocation. The CPSC states that 13 deaths reported over the past 13 years are related to sleep positioners. What To Use Instead: Nothing. Your baby will control to roll over once he has the neck strength.
3. Crib Bumpers
Why They Are Dangerous: You may think that the cute bumper inside the crib would prevent the tiny limbs of your child from being stuck between the rails, but in reality, these pads are one of the unsafe baby products that cause suffocation and are a strangulation hazard. It is even linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The baby’s head can be caught on the side of the crib and the bumper. Older kids can also use the bumper to crawl out of the bed. What To Use Instead: You can try a breathable mesh line instead. It will prevent the baby’s arms and legs from getting wedged in the crib slats.
4. Walkers
Why They Are Dangerous: A walker may appear a great idea because it helps the infant stand and walk before he can do it on his own. But it is not as safe and convenient as it may appear. Every year, more 21,300 injuries associated with babies rolling down the flight of stairs are reported in the emergency room. It’s also been said that walkers delay the children from reaching their development milestone. What To Use Instead: A walk around or station baby activity center will let your child move around safely on a secure base.
5. Co-Sleepers
Why They Are Dangerous: Co-sleepers, also called bedside sleepers, allow children to sleep near the mothers for nursing. But at the same time, it also increases the risk of suffocation because of the excess padding. Plus, the sides of the co-sleepers are very low. Even worse, a parent can roll on top of their baby. So co-sleeper is one of the recommended baby products to avoid strictly. What To Use Instead: A full sized crib with fixed sides is definitely a safer option. Or just share the bed with your baby.
6. Car Seat Toys And Add-Ons
Why They Are Dangerous: The little mirrors and stuffed animals attached to the front of the car may seem like a godsend to keep the kid entertained in the long rides. But car seat experts opine that 99% of them are not safe. The rule is- “if it did not come with the car, do not use it”. And just think, would you really want a toy hurdling your tot’s face while you are riding? No, right? What To Use Instead: Give your child a teether toy to play in the car.
7. Infant Bathtub Seats
Why They Are Dangerous: The danger of the bathtub seat lies from the false sense of security that it provides. Yes, it helps babies sit upright, but also increases the risk of tipping over. In the past 16 years, bath seats have been tied to 175 infant deaths. The suction cups that are meant to secure the position never really work. What To Use Instead: A hard plastic baby bathtub is definitely a safer alternative. But no matter which baby tub you are using, never leave the baby alone, not even for a minute.
8. Bumbo Seats
Why They Are Dangerous: These cute and colorful chairs had millions falling for it when they were launched, especially since it looked like a handy way to feed the infants. The product was recalled when CPSC received reports that infants fell off the seat by leaning, arching or rocking themselves. But the product is back in the market, this time with the strap to keep the baby safe in his seat. But that’s not enough as the entire thing can topple over the infant. What To Use Instead: A stationary activity center or a bouncer seat would be cool. But do not place them on the bed, counter or table.
9. Sling Carriers
Why They Are Dangerous: Having your baby snuggle up to you while walking or working may look adorable. But a shocking fact is that over the past 20 years, there have been 14 deaths associated with sling carriers. Being pressed up against the body for a long time can pose the risk of suffocation. Skull injuries, head injuries, and fractures have also been reported. What To Use Instead: Ring Slings are a safer alternative when used properly. Handheld baby carriers, strollers or backpack carriers are covered by the safety standards and would make a safe pick.
10. Soft Bedding
Why They Are Dangerous: These plushly monogrammed blankets and pillows may look adorable, but they are ideal for decorative purposes only. Your infant can get tangled in the blanket or smothered by the pillow, leading to suffocation. What To Use Instead: Keep your baby comfortable in a swaddler, footed onesie or a sleep sack.
