The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued an urgent warning about the “hidden dangers” of three popular baby products that can cause suffocation, choking, and overheating in infants while they sleep. The items include self-feeding cushions, baby sleep positioners, and in-cot sleep aids, all commonly marketed as “must-have” items for new parents.
Self-Feeding Cushions and Choking Risk
Self-feeding cushions, also known as hands-free baby bottle holders, are designed to hold a baby’s bottle while they feed. According to RoSPA, these products can make it harder for babies to control the flow of milk, increasing the risk of choking. The warning highlights that although these cushions may seem convenient, they can interfere with a baby's natural feeding rhythm and pose a serious safety hazard.
Sleep Positioners and Suffocation Dangers
The second product category flagged by RoSPA includes baby sleep positioners, which may be sold as baby pillows, cuddle cushions, or anti-rolled pillows. These items can restrict a baby's movement and increase the risk of suffocation while sleeping. RoSPA notes that even products marketed to prevent rolling can create unsafe sleep environments for infants.
In-Cot Sleep Aids and Overheating Risks
In-cot sleep aids, sometimes sold as sleep aid pillows, also increase the risk of suffocation and overheating. These products, often positioned as comforting additions to a cot, can trap heat and obstruct a baby's airway, according to RoSPA's safety experts.
Rebecca Guy, senior policy manager at RoSPA, said in a statement: “Every parent wants what’s best for their baby and it’s completely understandable to look for products that promise to make feeding or sleeping easier.” She added: “But some products can introduce risks that parents may not be aware of, particularly when they are marketed as must-have items.”
Simple Sleep Spaces Are Safest
Ms Guy went on to explain: “The safest sleep spaces are often the simplest. Babies should sleep on their backs in a clear cot, Moses basket or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress and without extra items.” She urged parents to think carefully before purchasing any baby product: “Before buying any product, take a moment to ask if you really need it and whether it could affect your baby’s safety.”
RoSPA emphasized that the safest places for babies to sleep “are often the simplest,” recommending a clear cot, Moses basket, or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress and no additional items. The warning comes as a reminder to parents to prioritize safety over convenience when selecting products for their infants.
