Bumper Pad Safety

A crib bumper is a popular piece of bedding for a crib. However, it can pose a safety hazard; using one properly or researching alternatives available can keep your infant safe.

Uses

Bumper pads are used around the edges of a crib to prevent a baby from putting an arm or leg through the slats. They also prevent an infant from hitting themselves on hard surfaces around the edge of the crib.

Safety

Traditional crib bumpers can cause suffocation or strangulation due to the ties used to fasten the bumper to the crib. Additionally, a child can stand on a bumper to climb out of a crib, which can cause them to fall.

Prevention

When using a traditional bumper pad a parent should be sure the bumper fits tightly to the perimeter of the crib without overlapping. The ties on the bumper pad should not be longer than 9 inches and should tie at the top and bottom of the bumper pad. When a child is old enough to stand the pad should be removed to prevent falls.

Alternatives

Mesh bumpers offer are breathable material to keep a child from suffocating. A child cannot stand on a mesh bumper like a traditional crib bumper. In addition, mesh bumpers are attached with Velcro not ties.

Statistics

According to the Consumer Safety Product commission, between the years 1985 to 2005 there were 27 reported accidental deaths due to crib bumper pads.

References

• Consumer Product Safety Commission: Crib Bumper Pads