The proposed safety measures would require infant support cushions to be as firm as a crib mattress and would effectively limit the height of the cushion’s walls to less than 2 inches. The CPSC will meet on Nov. 29 to decide whether to adopt the proposal. If adopted, the new requirements would be the first federal safety standards for infant loungers.
Key Points
- The CPSC is proposing a major redesign of baby loungers to reduce the risk of suffocation deaths.
- The proposed safety measures would require infant support cushions to be as firm as a crib mattress and would limit the height of the cushion’s walls to less than 2 inches.
- The CPSC will meet on Nov. 29 to decide whether to adopt the proposal.
- If adopted, the new requirements would be the first federal safety standards for infant loungers.
Background
In 2021, the CPSC recalled more than 3 million Boppy infant loungers, citing eight deaths of infants who reportedly suffocated after being placed in the product. Since then, more babies have died in the Boppy Newborn Lounger and loungers made by other companies, according to an NBC News investigation.
Why the Change is Needed
Baby loungers are marketed for awake time, but newborns can quickly fall asleep in the cozy, pillow-like product. If infants are cradled inside a lounger with high side walls, caregivers may be more likely to step away. Babies can suffocate if they turn their faces into loungers’ padded surfaces. They can also asphyxiate if they get stuck in a position that inhibits their breathing.
What the Proposed Changes Would Do
The proposed safety measures would require infant support cushions to be as firm as a crib mattress and would effectively limit the height of the cushion’s walls to less than 2 inches. The changes are meant to reduce the risk of babies suffocating on the padding or getting their bodies stuck in a position that could constrict their breathing. The products would also need more prominent warning labels cautioning against using the cushions for sleep or while babies are unattended.
What Manufacturers Say
Manufacturers have defended their products as safe when used as intended, while babies are awake and supervised.
What Parents Should Do
Parents should never leave their babies unattended in baby loungers or any other sleep products. They should also make sure that baby loungers are used on a firm surface and that the sides of the lounger are not too high.