Inclined sleep products for infants connected to numerous deaths

A recent analysis by Consumer Reports raised alarms about several infant sleep products, leading to demands for a recall. The investigation linked more than 30 infant deaths between 2011 and 2018 to inclined infant sleep products, including Fisher Price’s Rock N’ Play Sleeper.

“On the market” doesn’t necessarily mean “safe”

Many parents assumed that, because products like the Fisher-Price Rock N’ Play Sleeper could be purchased in stores, they must be safe. However, some experts have come out against these products, saying that most infants should never sleep on an incline. So far, Consumer Reports has connected 36 infant deaths to inclined sleepers, including the following models:

• Kids II Ingenuity Moonlight Rocking Sleeper
• Kids II Bright Starts Playtime to Bedtime Sleeper (discontinued)
• Fisher-Price Rock N’ Play

Despite these concerns, several varieties of inclined sleepers remain on the market. But public statements by pediatric professionals aim to change that.

Professionals advocate for a recall

In a recent press release, the American Academy of Pediatrics urged regulators to pull the Rock N’ Play Sleeper from shelves “immediately.” Prior consumer alerts warned parents that babies older than 3 months should not be placed in an inclined sleeper, but the AAP advises that is not enough. They say inclined sleep products, as well as any other products that restrain a sleeping infant, are not safe.

According to Rachel Moon, chair of the AAP Task Force for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: “Infants should always sleep on their back, on a separate, flat and firm sleep surface without any bumpers or bedding.”

Guidance on defective and dangerous products

Everyday products can cause serious harm when they malfunction or fail to work as intended. If you believe your baby was harmed by an inclined sleeper or other dangerous product, consult an attorney experienced in personal injury or wrongful death due to defective products.