Sleep Positioners? The FDA Says They’re a No-No

How much baby gear is out there? Geez. Your registry is packed with all kinds of products, gizmos and gadgets. And you’re kind of sure that you need at least some of them. Well, the FDA now says that there’s one item you don’t need. What is it? Read on to get the details on the FDA’s new stance on infant sleep positioners.

You’re super-freaked out about your baby’s sleep habits. More specifically, you really, really, really want to make sure that he or she is not flipping over in the middle of the night. You’ve read the research and know that an on-the-back sleeping position is an absolute must-do. That is, when it comes to safe sleeping and reducing the risk of SIDS.

Here’s where baby sleep positioners come in. The anxious parent doesn’t believe that baby will stay in place all night long. Sleep positioners capitalize on this worry and claim to keep babies in the “safe” sleep position.

But after some (not all) babies have been found in not-so-safe positions while in a positioner, the FDA is saying that these devices might be a no-no. Instead, babies should sleep in a bare crib that’s free from pillows, toys, quilts, blankets and, of course, sleep positioners.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a recall of a specific product. It’s more of a general warning to consumers. When it comes down to it, do your research — with any baby product. Just because a label says it’s safe or will lower the risk of something you don’t want to happen doesn’t mean it’s true.

What do you think about using an infant sleep positioner? Share your thoughts in the comments below.