Every parent looks forward to welcoming their baby into the world, and part of the preparation involves ensuring a safe and comfortable space for the newborn to rest and play.
As we delve into this topic, we will explore the roles of baby loungers and nursing pillows, their differences, as well as guidelines to ensure your baby's safety.
Understanding Baby Loungers and Nursing Pillows
Often, new parents or caregivers might confuse baby loungers and nursing pillows as they look somewhat similar. However, they serve distinct purposes.
A baby lounger is a specially shaped cushion (or oversized pillow) designed to cradle a baby when awake, offering a comfortable and safe space for the infant to rest, play, or interact with caregivers. Its higher edges and indented middle provide support for the baby, preventing them from lying completely flat and offering a slightly elevated angle for enhanced interaction.
It is not advised to use the baby lounger as a sleep product.
Do note the CPSC introduced the Infant Sleep Products Rule in June 2022, which requires all new infant sleep products to have a sleep surface angle of 10 degrees or lower and meet at least one existing standard for sleep products such as bassinets, cradles, play yards, or cribs.
You should always be up-to-date on product recalls. For example, there were some high-profile product recalls of baby lounger products like the Boppy Newborn Lounger due to eight reported instances of infant suffocation who were left to sleep on the device.
If you own the elephant boppy lounger (or any other variant of the Boppy Newborn Loungers), you should stop using it and contact Boppy for a refund.
On the other hand, a nursing pillow like the Boppy Nursing Pillow is C-shaped and designed to provide support to babies during nursing or bottle-feeding, making the process more comfortable for both the baby and the parent. These pillows can also be used during tummy time and to aid babies in sitting.
If you own a Boppy Nursing Pillow or another brand of neonatal lounger, be sure to adhere to safe sleep guidelines for infants. These include ensuring that your infant does not sleep on a lounger or pillow. Consider babyproofing their sleeping area and your residence to ensure the safety of your child.
Safe Sleep Guidelines for Newborn Babies
While baby loungers and nursing pillows offer convenience and comfort, it's important to stress that they are not designed for safe sleeping.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) have set guidelines that caregivers should follow to create a safe sleep environment for newborns:
#1 Back to Sleep: Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This position reduces the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome (SUID/SIDS) and suffocation.
#2 Bare is Best: The baby's sleep area should be kept free from pillows, blankets, soft toys, and other objects that may pose a risk of suffocation. A firm, flat surface with a fitted sheet is all that's required for safe sleep.
#3 Firm, Flat Surface for Sleeping: If your baby falls asleep in a lounger, swing, bouncer, or similar product, transfer them to a safe sleep space, such as a crib, bassinet, play yard, or bedside sleeper.
#4 Use Inclined Products Wisely: Items such as rockers, gliders, soothers, and swings should never be used for infant sleep. Infants should also not be left unsupervised or unrestrained in these products or with soft bedding material, due to the risk of suffocation.
Choosing the Right Products
Before purchasing a baby lounger or nursing pillow, make sure the product adheres to safety standards. The product should provide a firm surface, be devoid of any straps or attachments that could cause harm, and be easily cleanable. Remember, these items are not intended for unsupervised use or for sleeping.
In summary, while baby loungers and nursing pillows can bring comfort and convenience, nothing replaces the importance of following safety guidelines for infant care. Prioritize creating a safe sleep environment, as a well-rested baby is a happy baby - and that leads to happy parents too.
