The baby shower gift that an M Health Fairview pediatrician would never give

When it comes to baby shower gifts, some items may look cozy and cute—but they can be dangerously misleading. Jessica Larson, MD, a pediatrician at M Health Fairview Clinic – Elk River, said certain popular products are best left at the store.

“Generally, anything that's fluffy or looks comfortable is probably dangerous for your baby,” Larson warned.

Why baby loungers aren’t safe for sleep

Baby loungers—those cushioned beds with raised sides that resemble pet beds – may appear to be a cozy, convenient spot for your little one. But they’re not safe for sleep.

"Unfortunately, multiple babies have died after being placed in loungers,” Larson said. “Even though they look inviting, they create a serious suffocation risk.” 

It’s easy to assume that if something is sold in stores, it’s been safety-approved. But that’s not always the case. These products can be safe if the baby is awake and near a caretaker. Check the label on the product. Sometimes they're labeled not safe for sleep.

What is a safe sleep space?

Larson emphasized that the safest place for a baby to sleep is on their back, on a flat surface, in a crib or bassinet that meets current safety standards. The sleep space should contain only:

No pillows, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals should be in the crib during the first year. After 12 months, a light blanket and small pillow can be introduced.

For the first four to six months, we recommend that infants sleep in the same room as their parents, but not in their bed, Larson said.

Dressing baby for safe sleep

Swaddler pajamas that restrict arm movement are safe until babies begin to roll—usually around four months. After that, Larson recommends:

“It’s usually a fleece material,” she said. “They can still move, but it keeps them warm and safe.”

For newborns in their first few weeks, who are more temperature-sensitive, Larson suggests keeping the home between 68 and 72°F and dressing the baby in one layer more than what adults are wearing.

Why “back is best” keeps babies safest 

In the past, some parents were told to place babies on their stomachs. But research has since shown the safest position is on their backs. 

“Once we studied the question, it became very clear -- babies are safer on their backs,” Larson said.

And what about spit-up? Pediatricians aren’t worried about babies choking from spit-up while asleep on their backs, Larson said. The position of the airways and babies' natural, protective reflexes make it highly unlikely.

Babies might sleep more deeply when they're on their bellies, so they might not wake up when they should. Sleeping on their bellies can increase the chances that babies suffocate. Be sure to instruct caregivers like a grandparent or babysitter, to place babies on their backs to sleep.

What about car seats and swings?

It’s okay if a baby falls asleep in a car seat while you're driving. But the concern arises when babies are left to sleep in car seats, swings, or recliners unsupervised.

“If you're not actively with your baby, they should be on a flat surface with nothing around them,” Larson said.

Have questions about keeping kids and babies safe? 

The experts at M Health Fairview Pediatrics are available to help. Learn more about primary care and find a provider.