You’ve heard about the recall of drop-side cribs, but now crib bumpers appear to be on the hit list of baby basics that just might go the way of metal walkers and riding in the front seat under the age of nine.
We spent some time talking about cribs, bumpers and safety with Jennifer Ketchmark and Dave Benton at WCFN-49 this week. Check out what we had to say:
Do you use crib bumpers or other soft bedding in your child’s crib? Why or why not?
Maybe this is bad. But my daughter moved around in the bed so much I am afraid she would have hurt herself without the bumpers or had more trouble sleeping than she did. I was always afraid she would stick an arm or leg between a rail and twist it in the middle of the night. I think if you install the bumper properly/tightly it should not be a problem.
Great interview ladies, and thanks for the plug! It is always our goal at Babyland to help keep babies safe, and bumpers have long been debated. It really is a mixed bag of opinions depending on who you’re talking to. As with most products we use, there are potential risks. In most cases, proper use can help reduces these risks.
The question is “Do the benefits outweigh the risks?” That is something only you as a parent can decide for you and your child. At this point, there have not been any significant recalls issued, but the CPSC has issued a warning highlighting the potential risks, and all the studies we read on bumper safety go both ways about 50/50. So, we recommend that parents do whatever they are comfortable with. If you will be up all night worrying, you probably shouldn’t buy one. If your concerned, but still want some protection against bumps, bruises, and entrapped limbs, the Breathable Bumper may fit the bill. For traditional bumpers, we only recommend using them if they have ties on both the top and bottom of the pad which greatly reduces the risk of baby getting trapped underneath (some lower quality bumpers only have ties on the top).
“How long should I use a bumper?” On average, until they are between 3-6 months old, but every child is different. Bumpers are designed to help prevent bumps, bruises, and entrapped limbs for newborns that may roll over involuntarily, running into the side of the crib. You should discontinue use once your baby can roll over at will. (A good way to try testing this while they are awake is to place them onto the floor on their back and then take their favorite toy or teether, give it to them or dangle it over them until they are engaged. Then, take it away and place it off to their side, within their line of vision but just out of reach. Now, just wait and see if they are able to roll over to reclaim their toy or not.) Once capable, they will roll over more frequently, spending more time along the edges of their crib, and continued use poses more of a risk that they could become entrapped. If you leave the bumper in until they can sit up or even pull up on the side of the crib, it can create an additional, unnecessary risk. The bumper could become a “step” for them to climb up on, increasing the risk of them falling out of their crib. Making sure to remove the bumper at the right time in your child’s development has always been a big part of bumper safety.
As the bumper debate continues, and new information becomes available, rest assured that Babyland will be on top of the issue and any changes in regulations. You can also register your bumper (or anything else purchased at Babyland)for our Free Recall Monitoring Program. Then, if there ever is a recall on your bumper, we will notify you right away. This way you can have some peace of mind when using the items you buy from us with your little bundle of joy.
Whatever your decision regarding bumper use, Babyland can help. Please feel free to stop in anytime to ask questions, share your opinion, or see all the options available first hand. We look forward to seeing you soon!