Crib bumpers were created to keep your baby safe while asleep in her crib.
They are traditionally made out of fabric and go around the inside of a standard-size crib, protecting your little one’s head from getting stuck or falling through hard slats while they sleep soundly away all day long.
However, the use of a crib bumper pad may put your baby at greater risk for suffocation, SIDS, or strangulation. They also can prevent airflow which leads to rebreathing of stale air and in some cases, overheating.
Because of these reasons, child safety organizations including The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have advised against using crib bumpers.
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Are Crib Bumpers Safe?
Most experts say no. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), for example, has been advising against the use of crib bumpers since 2005 because of the risk of strangulation, entrapment, and unintentional suffocation, which by the way is the leading cause of injury, death, and accidents among infants.
Despite safety concerns, most crib bumpers come with cotton pads that are often marketed as a way to keep your baby safe by providing protection to a baby’s head from bumps and preventing her from getting her arms and legs stuck between the bars of the crib.
They’re pictured in ads with little children sleeping peacefully on their backs with their heads resting on a pillow, surrounded by a soft padded barrier or a subtle light gray liner in their cribs.
Some companies even market them as accessories to improve a baby’s sleep.
But the truth is, there’s no evidence that crib bumpers actually do anything to prevent SIDS or other sleep-related problems. In fact, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest they might be dangerous.
Are Breathable Mesh Bumper Pads and Other Mesh Alternatives Safe?
Even the mesh ones such as newer starry mesh liner and breathable mesh crib bumpers which are often attached to padded crib liners are not safe, but are a lot safer as there is no risk of suffocation.
They also come in nice designs such as a woodlands nursery theme, charming owl liner, or navy blue trim to match a baby’s nursery.
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What Can I Use Instead of a Crib Bumper?
If you’re looking for a crib bumper alternative, there are a few different options you can choose from. But first, you can consider going crib bare.
This means no pads, liners, or bumper, only a firm mattress, and fitted sheet.
Another option for parents and their children is to use pillows, soft bedding, or blankets around the perimeter of the crib and the mattress – just be sure to remove them when your baby is sleeping.
You can also use padded slats which are zip closed as opposed to being tied, which makes them safer than a crib bumper.
Can I Try Rail Covers Instead of Traditional Crib Bumpers?
Many parents are wondering whether rail covers are a good alternative to crib bumpers, the answer is yes but they serve a different purpose.
Rail covers provide a washable cover and are primarily used to keep the baby safe from ingesting wood splinters, wood stains, varnish, or paint.
Additionally, a rail cover is usually placed to sit at the top railing, providing some breathing space for your child.
However, these covers don’t offer as much padding so they may not be as effective at preventing serious injuries. Additionally, they can be more expensive than bumper pads.
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Is It Okay for the Baby to Hit His Head on the Crib?
If your baby wants to roll and move, you’re probably worried about your child injuring himself. And when it comes to head injuries, this is especially true.
So, when you see your child hit their head on the crib, it can be worrying.
But don’t worry, in most cases, it’s no big deal.
This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. Infants are still learning to control their bodies and movements, so it is not uncommon for them to bump their heads from time to time.
Some infants bang their heads when they’re trying to fall asleep.
If you are concerned about your child’s head injury, however, there are some signs that you can look for. If the baby seems to be in pain or is crying excessively in the middle of the night, this could be the first sign that something is wrong.
Some doctors recommend buying kids rocking chairs for head-banging babies. It replaces the banging sensation with a rocking sensation, which is considered safer of the two.
However, you can only do this when your baby is one year of age.
If you are still concerned, it is always best to consult with a doctor or medical professional to get their opinion. They will be able to assess the situation and give you peace of mind.
How Do I Stop My Baby From Hitting His Head in the Crib?
First, it’s important to understand why your baby is hitting his head. Babies bang their heads for various reasons, including teething pain, boredom, or frustration.
If you can figure out what’s causing your baby to hit his head, you may be able to solve the problem more easily.
There are a few things you can try to stop your baby from hitting his head in the crib. You can try giving him a toy or stuffed animal to hold onto, which may provide some distraction.
You can also try swaddling him, which may help him feel more secure. If you think your baby is hitting his head out of frustration, try giving him more attention and affection when he’s awake and alert.
Keeping your baby close to your bed also helps. If you notice constant banging of the head, you can comfort your baby right away because your bed is close to his.
Remember, every baby is different, so what works for one may not work for another. Just keep trying different things until you search and find something that works for your kid.
With a little patience and perseverance, you’ll eventually get the results you’re looking for.
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Conclusion
Crib bumpers have been around for a long time and are designed to protect babies from hitting their heads on the crib slats or getting stuck between them.
However, crib bumpers may actually cause more harm than good.
It might be time to say goodbye to those crib bumpers and search for another way to protect your little one’s noggin since there are far safer alternatives to crib bumpers.
