- Several organizations reccomend against using crib bumpers, including: the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Health Canada, the National Center for Health and Safety in Child Care, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the First Candle/National SIDS Alliance
Crib bumpers are not reccomended for several reasons, the main ones being:
- Crib bumpers inhibit the circulation of fresh air around the crib, which is a contributing factor to SIDS
- Bumpers that come loose (and the bumper ties) represent an entaglement and strangulation hazard
- A soft, pillow-like bumper can cause suffocation
- Crib bumpers can be used by older babies to help them climb out of the crib (and injure themselves)
Many people choose to use crib bumpers because they believe the crib padding prevents injury. Although they may prevent very MINOR injuries, the risks of using crib bumpers far outweigh the benefits. In fact, studies have concluded that it is nearly impossible for a child to seriously injure themselves on the crib bars.
I know what you're thinking. But everyone uses them! And bedding sets are so cute! I pretty much agree with you- but I just don't think it's worth the risk. Or the waste of money (quality bedding sets are usually between $175-$400!). So I found a better alternative: several companies sell fitted crib sheets, matching blankets and other accessories in adorable patterns and colors.
I especially love Dwell Studio.
Here are my favorites:
Owl Sky- This is the pattern I'll be going with. It fits perfectly with our whole green and brown, nature theme. If we end up having a girl, I'll accessorize with more "girly" items.
Sparrow Lilac- this one is gorgeous too {for a girl}, but the first ones match with our theme better, and I'm starting to think this baby is going to stick to his/her guns and refuse to show us the goods, anyway.
SOURCES:
Crib Bumper Study
Baby Bedding and Crib Bumper Safety
Healthy Children: Safe Crib Practices
Click? :) We're #102 now!
Just had to let you know that I have lemon bars baking in the oven right now! I couldn't resist the urge after yesterday's post! They're Betty Crocker out of a box so I hope they are good but I'm blaming the craving on you!
ReplyDeleteWe've never used a bumper and Tillie has never been injured or gotten stuck in the crib bars.
ReplyDeleteI don't understand why so many people use them. They're not recommended and cost a lot. Count me out!
You know bedding sets out here (Australia) dont even contain bumpers! They've been considered dangerous for so many years that I dont think you can even buy them anymore! Good choice not using one :)
ReplyDeleteNew follower here =] My little guy has never had bumpers either and he's ten months now. I don't know why so many people use them either.
ReplyDeletethanks for the heads up!
ReplyDeletethose sheets you have chosen are so so cute. <3
I remember hearing about that. Haven't bought bedding yet but I did find this which solves the problem but still undecided.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.target.com/BreathableBaby-Breathable-Safer-Bumper-White/dp/B0013FGWD0/ref=br_1_3?ie=UTF8&id=BreathableBaby%20Breathable%20Safer%20Bumper%20-White&node=2309692011&searchSize=30&searchView=grid3&searchPage=1&sr=1-3&qid=1281535148&rh=target_com_primary_color-bin%3AWhite&searchBinNameList=target_com_category-bin%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_character-bin%2Cprice%2Ccollection_name-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin%2Citem_styling&searchRank=pmrank&frombrowse=1