Baby sleep aids can be deadly for infants

What the research found

Australia's consumer watchdog says products marketed for soothing and sleep can be 'potentially deadly'. Its data for the 20 years to 2021 show around two infant deaths each year linked to inclined sleep products. Around one child death each year was linked to other infant sleep aids.

Red Nose explains the risk with inclined products such as rockers and bouncers. A baby's head can tilt forward, with the chin on the chest, and block the airway. Padded sides can cause suffocation, or let a baby breathe back in their own exhaled air. Red Nose also says padded baby nests and cocoons are not safe for sleep, and soft toys and comforters can cover a baby's nose and mouth.

This is guidance based on death data and how babies' bodies work, not on controlled trials. Red Nose says its six safe sleep recommendations are evidence-based and have helped cut SIDS in Australia by 80 percent since 1989. They include a firm, flat mattress with no loose bedding, soft toys or bumpers.

What it doesn’t mean

• The claim does not cover every product. The risk is highest with inclined sleepers, padded nests and soft items in the cot. Safe sleep means a flat, firm surface, baby on their back, and face and head uncovered.
• The numbers are small, but the deaths are preventable. If your baby falls asleep in a bouncer, rocker or swing, move them to a safe sleep space. Swaddling should stop once a baby shows signs of rolling, often around 4 to 6 months.
• If you are worried about reflux, settling or sleep, talk to your GP or child health nurse before buying a product that promises to help.