• Posted December 29, 2023

Stop Using 'Baby Loungers' Due to Suffocation Risk, Feds Warn

A popular infant lounger violates U.S. safety standards because it poses a fall hazard and suffocation risk to babies, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns.

Though a notice of violation has been issued to the seller, Poetint002 of China, the company has not agreed to recall the loungers or offer consumers a remedy, the CPSC said in a news release.

The CPSC said the loungers fail to meet safety requirements because they lack a stand, creating an unsafe sleeping environment for babies. They also fall short of rules for marking, labeling and instructions.

Consumers should stop using "Baby Loungers" immediately, the CPSC said, and consumers should unzip and take the products apart, cut up the lounger cover, sleeping pad and side bumpers and throw them out.

Consumers who bought "Baby Loungers" will receive the notice directly.

Among other issues, the packaging lacks a tracking label with the date of manufacture. That's required for durable children's products, the CPSC said.

The loungers were sold on Amazon.com and other online sites.

Those evaluated by the CPSC are oval in shape and were sold in fabric that is gray on the outside and white on the inside with animals such as lions, moose and giraffes printed inside the lounger. A small pillow with similar imagery is included.

CPSC said the products have a red tag with three rectangular symbols. A white label on the packaging identifies the products as "Baby Loungers."

The commission reminded parents and caregivers that a firm, flat surface in a crib, bassinet or play yard is the best place for baby to sleep. Only a fitted sheet should be used -- no blankets, pillows, padded crib bumpers or other items should be used.

Babies should always be placed on their back to sleep and those who fall asleep in another position should be moved to a safe sleep spot, the commission added.

More information

The American Academy of Pediatrics has more about sleep safety for infants.

SOURCE: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, news release, Dec. 21, 2023