In a recent advisory, the American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a firm caution against the use of weighted sleep products for infants. While weighted blankets have become increasingly popular among adults, the organization emphasizes that weighted baby blankets, swaddles, and sleep sacks are neither safe nor recommended for babies.
Dr. Wanda Abreu, a specialist at Columbia Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, underlines the primary risk associated with these products, stating, “One of the risks is suffocation. Babies can become trapped under the weight of the blanket, making it difficult for them to breathe or obtain adequate airflow.”
The advisory comes in response to growing concerns over the safety of these products for the youngest members of our population. Notably, two major manufacturers of weighted sleep products for babies, Nested Bean and Dreamland Baby, have defended the safety of their products by pointing to a lack of reported injuries. Nevertheless, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has already confirmed at least one infant death connected to the use of a weighted product.
This stark disparity between manufacturer claims and safety commission findings has raised red flags and prompted the American Academy of Pediatrics to urge parents and caregivers to exercise caution when considering the use of such products for their infants.
For concerned consumers, the advisory serves as a critical reminder to prioritize the safety and well-being of their children. As the discussion around weighted sleep products for babies continues, it is essential to stay informed about potential risks and make responsible choices for the safety of our youngest and most vulnerable members of society.
