The American Academy of Pediatrics says you shouldn’t use a padded bumper in your baby’s crib.
The Elk Grove Village-based academy recently updated their policies to create safer sleep environments for babies to recommend the pads should not be used. The policies intend to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS.
The pads are designed to wrap around the inside of a crib to prevent head injuries and limb entrapment in crib slats, but the academy’s new guidelines state there is no evidence they prevent such injuries. In fact, the guidelines state babies can actually suffocate in the pads.
"If we can help save a baby's life, it's so important," said Ald. James Balcer (11th), a co-sponsor of the ordinance with Ald. George Cardenas (12th). "If you listen to the testimony, there are folks who have lost their newborn children. ... We as a city council have to take that responsibility, and if it's endangering the lives of constituents, you have to do something."
The pediatrics academy updates its official policies every five years to serve as a guide for pediatricians and other medical professionals across the country.
The group also recommends babies always sleep on a firm surface, not in car seats, or on wedges or other positioners and without pillows or blankets.
