Navigating Parenthood: Baby Products to Avoid and Parenting Mistakes to Steer Clear Of

Once you become a parent there is seemingly no end to the list of decisions to be made, especially when it comes to selecting the right baby products. While the market is flooded with an overkill of options, it’s crucial for new parents to exercise caution and avoid certain baby products that may pose risks to their little ones. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the baby registry items to avoid, and parenting mistakes that parents should be aware of to ensure the safety and well-being of their babies.

Sleep related Baby Products to Avoid

Ensuring a safe and healthy sleep environment for your little one is vital. Below are some items to consider avoiding.

1. Sleep positioners

Sleep positioners are used to keep the babies sleeping in a certain sleeping position. They are designed to prevent babies from rolling over on their stomachs which increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). However, the American academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that sleep positioners are not safe and have been linked to infant deaths. Sleep positioners can cause a baby to struggle to breathe and lead to death.

AAP suggests that infants should rest on their backs on a firm sleeping surface, devoid of soft objects, toys, pillows, or loose bedding.

2. Crib bumpers

Crib bumpers are placed inside the crib to prevent babies from hitting their head or getting limbs stuck between crib slats. They are usually advertised as a safety feature for cribs but pose a suffocation risk therefore increasing the risk of SIDS. CPSC warned parents against the risks of using crib bumpers which outweighs the benefits of using crib bumpers.

To keep your baby safe while sleeping, consider a firm mattress, fitted sheet and a sleep sack.

3. Inclined sleepers

These are baby sleeping products that allow infants to sleep at an angle higher than 10 degrees. They remain stationary and feature a cot or sleeping area set at a slight incline, typically ranging between 10 and 30 degrees. Despite this, reputable medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) caution against the use of inclined sleepers for young infants. 

The primary concern is the potential obstruction of the baby’s airway, leading to a chin-to-chest position that hampers breathing. Another risk involves the possibility of infants rolling or shifting, which could result in suffocation if their faces come into contact with padding. 

This danger is heightened as very young babies struggle to move their heads away from unsafe positions. Consequently, inclined sleepers are considered unsafe and should be avoided. 

4. Co-sleepers

Co-sleepers are baby products that allow parents to sleep close to their newborns. They come in various forms such as cribs, bassinets, and play yards, and are used in the same bed or same room as the parents or caregivers. If you are considering co-sleeping, it is important to follow safe sleep guidelines by AAP to ensure your baby’s safety. 

There is an increased risk of accidental suffocation or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when co-sleeping, especially if parents are heavy sleepers or if soft bedding is present. Parents or caregivers may unintentionally roll onto the baby during sleep, posing a risk of injury or suffocation.

5. Soft bedding

Soft bedding refers to any soft objects that are placed in a baby’s sleep area. This includes items such as blankets, pillows, comforters, and stuffed animals. Soft bedding in a baby’s sleep environment can pose serious safety risks, increasing the likelihood of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and accidental suffocation.

It is advisable to remove soft bedding, such as quilts, comforters, and stuffed animals, from the crib. These items can pose suffocation hazards, and babies should sleep on a firm, flat surface.

6. Weighted blankets

Weighted blankets are often used for therapeutic purposes in adults, and there has been an increasing interest in their use for children as well. Weighted blankets are recommended for individuals who weigh a certain amount, hence using them for babies and very young children may not be  appropriate.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the appropriate age for the user and also consult with healthcare professionals. 

Infants and young children lack the physical strength and coordination to move objects away from their faces. The added weight of weighted blankets poses a risk of suffocation to the child especially if the child can’t move the blanket away from their face. This puts babies at the risk of SIDS. 

For babies, alternative calming techniques such as swaddling (when appropriate), gentle rocking, or using a pacifier may be safer options than introducing a weighted blanket.

While weighted blankets can offer benefits for some individuals, it’s crucial to prioritize the safety of infants and young children. 

7. Drop-Side Cribs

The Drop-Side Cribs are baby cribs designed to assist the parents or the caretaker to reach the baby at ease and put the baby in the crib without any barriers.They are preferred for their rare drop down feature where one or both sides can slide up and down.  

These cribs were a very common type of crib before they were banned. The drop side cribs were reported to have caused dozens of  infant deaths as well as thousands of injuries. This does not mean people don’t use them since being banned. However, it is illegal to manufacture or use them whether new or old. They were banned in the USA in 2010 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) given their hazardous and fatal outcomes.   

The biggest risk with drop-side cribs lies in their hardware. It can malfunction, break, or loosen, creating dangerous gaps between the mattress and slats. These gaps pose a serious suffocation hazard for infants who could become trapped and unable to breathe. Additionally, they could suffer physical injuries or other trauma from getting stuck.

Instances of missing crib parts or improper assembly pose similar risks, despite clear warnings from the CPSC against using cribs with damaged or absent components. Essentially, drop-side cribs obtained from garage sales or online listings may lack essential screws, bolts, and safety instructions, increasing the likelihood of infant injuries.

Therefore, parents are advised to use only cribs that meet current safety standards, which include fixed sides and stringent testing for durability and safety. When selecting a crib for your baby, always choose a model that meets current safety standards and follow safe sleep guidelines to reduce the risk of injury or suffocation.

8. Baby Hammocks

Baby hammocks are a type of sleep surface designed to provide a gentle and soothing rocking motion for infants. They typically consist of a fabric sling suspended from a frame or ceiling attachment. They are usually marketed as a soothing and comfy surface to sleep and rest. However, their use is associated with a number of significant safety concerns. They are therefore not recommended by AAP. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against the use of soft bedding and sleep surfaces that can conform around a baby’s face. Baby Hammocks may pose a suffocation risk if the fabric material is over the baby’s face when sleeping. This increases the risk of SIDS since baby hammocks don’t usually provide a firm and flat surface which is recommended as safe for baby sleep. 

Moreover, baby hammocks can pose a safety risk if not securely attached to a stable frame or ceiling attachment. You should inspect the hammock on a regular basis to ensure that it is strong, supportive and that there are no signs of wear or damage. Fundamentally you should not leave the baby unsupervised while sleeping. It is also advisable to consult a pediatrician before using a hammock to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their age and development. 

Although baby hammocks may provide a calm and comforting sleeping space for certain infants, it is crucial to prioritize safety and comply with the safe sleep recommendations endorsed by pediatricians and health authorities. 

9. Crib Tents

Crib tents or crib nets are mesh or fabric enclosures designed to fit over a crib to prevent infants from climbing out or falling out of the crib. However, they pose serious safety hazards and are strongly discouraged by experts like AAP and CPSC. 

Crib tents are made of mesh material. The mesh material puts the baby at the risk of suffocation if the baby’s face presses against the mesh. They can also cause injuries and breathing difficulties to the baby if the baby is entangled with the mesh or other parts of the tent. Suffocation and entrapment can lead to serious safety hazards and can cause death. 

You should put into consideration your baby’s age before putting them in a crib tent. Crib tents are typically recommended for use with toddlers who are old enough to stand and potentially climb out of the crib. Additionally, inspect the crib tent on a regular basis to ensure there is no damage, wear or loose parts which could pose a safety hazard.  The crib should be replaced if torn or worn out. 

If you’re concerned about your child climbing out of the crib, consider transitioning them to a toddler bed around 18 months to 3 years old, or using other safety measures such as lowering the crib mattress or using a bed rail. Remember, the safest place for your baby to sleep is on their back, on a firm, flat surface, in a crib with a fitted sheet. Also, do not use products which are not recommended by health professionals. 

Bath time and Dress-up

1. Baby Powder

Baby powder is made of talc and corn-starch. It is a product used commonly on baby’s skin to absorb moisture and reduce moisture on baby’s skin particularly in diaper areas. However the use of powder comes with safety concerns. These safety concerns have made some companies like Johnson & Johnson to cease selling talc powder.

Baby powder can be harmful to infants and young children especially if inhaled. It has been linked with respiratory issues in babies given their smaller developing airways. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that baby powder exposes babies to asbestos since it is challenging to control airborne powder particles during use. 

Babies with sensitive skin or allergies may get allergic reactions from using baby powder. These allergic reactions include redness, rashes and skin irritation. It is advisable to be on the lookout for any allergies when using baby powder. Essentially, baby powder should not be applied directly to a baby’s genital area given its close link to infections such as urinary tract infections and yeast infections. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against the use of baby powder.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission( CPSC) advises caution when using baby powder. You should sprinkle baby powder onto your hands first and then apply it gently to the baby’s skin, avoiding the face and genital area. Excess powder should be carefully shaken off to prevent inhalation.

There are alternative products you can consider to use in place of baby powder made from talcum or baby powders in general. Among those products is petroleum jelly. You can use petroleum jelly to prevent diaper rash and chafing. You can also consider cornstarch based powders or diaper creams which will help your baby stay clear of the risks associated with talcum powder. Always remember to consult your pediatrician before using baby powder on your baby if you have any concerns.  

2. Infant bathtub seats 

Infant bathtub seats are supportive tools designed to keep babies secure and comfortable during bathtime. These seats typically feature a contoured shape to support the baby’s body, non-slip surfaces to prevent slipping, and secure straps or harnesses for added safety. They provide support to newborns since they have no head or neck control. The support provided by the Infant bathtub seats is temporary and should not be relied on. 

The use of Infant bathtubs seats comes with safety risks which should be well known by parents. They include the possibility of the baby slipping or tipping over in the seat, leading to accidents and injuries. Moreover,erroneous use and improper installation of the seat compromises the baby’s safety. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends caution when using infant bathtub seats and emphasizes the importance of close supervision during bath time. Parents should always stay within arm’s reach of the baby and never leave them unattended in the bathtub, even when using a bathtub seat. You should also ensure  the water in the tub is not above the baby’s chest. Essentially, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper installation and usage of the seat to minimize risks. 

There are  further alternatives to Infant bathtub seats recommended by AAP to ensure a safe bath time for your baby. The safest method to bathe newborns and young infants involves cradling them in your arm, ensuring your hand supports their head and neck while you bathe them or giving them a sponge bath. You can also use a non-slip bath mat and place it on the bottom of the tub to offer additional grip for your baby’s feet as they grow older. Babies outgrow infant bathtub seats within the first few months after birth. You can also opt for graduated bath tubs. They come with a contoured insert designed to offer a gentle recline for younger babies, which can be easily removed as they mature.

While infant bathtub seats can be useful and convenient tools for your baby’s bathtime, you should prioritize your baby’s safety. The potential risks outweigh the minor benefits of infant bathtub seats. 

3. Neck floats

Neck floats are ring shaped, inflatable or floating devices designed specifically to support a baby’s head and neck while they are in water. They commonly  consist of a circular ring that fits snugly around the baby’s neck with a  secure harness or strap to keep the float in place. The ring is usually  inflated with air to provide a floating ability allowing the baby to float safely and keep their head above the water. They are useful during  water activities like swimming especially for small babies and kids who can’t swim to keep them afloat in water. Some neck floats are made for babies as young as two weeks old and premature babies. 

Neck floats may seem safe but they give a  false sense of security. They have been linked to various risks including injuries, suffocation, drowning, and spine complications. One concern with neck floats is the potential for hyperextension of the baby’s neck. When a baby’s head is supported solely by a neck float, there is a risk that their neck may be forced into an unnatural position, which could potentially strain the delicate muscles and ligaments of the neck. This hyperextension could lead to discomfort or even injury, particularly if the baby’s neck is not properly supported.

Furthermore, using a neck float may encourage a baby to adopt an incorrect swimming posture, with their head tilted backward and their body in an unnatural position. This could potentially put additional strain on the spine and neck, increasing the risk of discomfort or injury.

While there is limited research specifically addressing the relationship between neck floats and spine complications in infants, some healthcare professionals and organizations caution against their use due to these potential risks. Instead, they recommend more traditional methods of introducing babies to water activities, such as holding them securely in the water while providing support for their head and neck.

Ultimately,as a parent you should exercise caution when considering the use of neck floats and prioritize safety and proper support for your baby’s head, neck, and spine during water activities. If you have concerns about introducing your baby to water,you should consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional for guidance on safe and appropriate methods.

4. Changing Tables 

Changing tables fall under the category of furniture pieces made specifically for diaper changing and dressing infants. They consist of a raised, flat surface with safety rails or straps to keep babies safe during diaper changes. Some changing tables consist  of storage shelves or drawers for diapers, wipes and other baby essentials making them convenient. 

Changing tables;especially the traditional ones with unstable bases and lacking safety rails or straps may present a risk to your baby by increasing the likelihood of them rolling over or falling off. They are convenient but not really an essential since diaper change can be done on a firm, flat surface like a bed or changing pad or mat. The changing tables may also put your baby at the risk of suffocation if left unattended. 

The AAP does not directly endorse or rebuke the use of changing tables but advises and focuses on the safety of all babies. AAP emphasizes the importance of keeping your baby under constant supervision during diaper change and using a safe surface regardless of location. Therefore, a portable changing pad or a mobile changing station is a good thing to consider especially if you are traveling or going out with your baby.  Moreover, keep your diaper changing supplies eg, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream within arm’s reach but out of your baby’s reach to avoid accidents. 

Transit and Lounging

Transit and lounging encompasses various aspects related to travel and relaxation, including the use of certain products and equipment. Below are equipment and products used when traveling or lounging with a baby. 

1. Car Seat Toys and Add-ons

Car seat toys and add-ons are accessories designed to entertain babies or children while they are in their car seats during transit. These may include plush toys, mirrors, activity boards, or hanging toys that attach to the car seat handle. While they can provide entertainment and stimulation for babies during car rides, it’s important to ensure that they do not interfere with the proper use of the car seat or pose any safety risks. The AAP advises against using any aftermarket products that are not specifically approved by the car seat manufacturer, as they may compromise the safety of the car seat in the event of a crash.

2. Bumbo Seats

Bumbo seats are lightweight, portable seats designed to support infants who are not yet able to sit up on their own. They are commonly used during transit, such as in cars or on airplanes, to provide a safe and comfortable seating option for babies. While Bumbo seats can be convenient for travel, the AAP recommends against using them on elevated surfaces, such as countertops or tables, as they do not provide adequate support to prevent falls. Additionally, parents should ensure that babies are always supervised while seated in a Bumbo seat to prevent accidents.

3. Sling Carriers

Sling carriers are fabric carriers that allow parents to carry their babies hands-free while in transit. They provide a cozy and secure environment for infants and are often used for short walks or trips where a stroller may be inconvenient. While sling carriers can be convenient for travel, the AAP advises parents to be cautious when using them, particularly with young infants. It’s essential to ensure that the baby’s face is visible and not pressed against the parent’s body to prevent suffocation or overheating. Additionally, parents should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and proper use of the sling carrier.

4. Infant Walkers

Infant walkers are wheeled devices that allow babies to move around in a seated position. While they are not typically used during transit, they can provide entertainment and mobility for babies when lounging at home or in a designated play area. However, the AAP strongly discourages the use of infant walkers due to safety concerns. Research has shown that infant walkers can lead to serious injuries, such as falls down stairs or collisions with furniture. As a result, the sale of infant walkers is banned in some countries, and the AAP recommends against their use altogether.

Other Baby Registry Items To Avoid

As  a parent or guardian, be very mindful of the products your infants or young children  come into contact with. Let’s dive into some additional consideration below.

1. Untested Baby Products

Untested baby products refer to items that have not undergone rigorous testing for safety, quality, or efficacy before being marketed and sold for use with infants or young children. These products pose potential risks such as safety hazards, lack of quality control, health risks, and misleading claims.

To mitigate these risks, parents should research products carefully, choose reputable brands, and follow guidelines from trusted organizations.

2. Second Hand/Used or Recalled Baby Products

Second-hand or used baby products may lack safety features or be subject to wear and tear, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries. Additionally, recalled baby products may pose serious safety concerns and should not be used. Parents should be vigilant about product recalls, inspect second-hand items thoroughly, and avoid using products without clear instructions or safety labels.

3. Food and Drink Restrictions

Certain foods and drinks should be avoided for babies to ensure their health and safety. These include honey before 12 months old, unpasteurized foods or drinks, foods with added sugars, foods high in salt (sodium), fish high in mercury, cow’s milk before 12 months old, and juice before 12 months old. Consulting with a pediatrician can provide guidance on appropriate nutrition for babies.

4. Chemical Concerns

Be cautious of baby products containing chemicals that may be harmful to infants. Bottles and dishes with Bisphenol A (BPA) have been linked to potential health concerns, so look for BPA-free options made from safe materials like glass or stainless steel. Additionally, avoid products with harsh chemicals such as fragrances, sulfates, and phthalates, which can irritate sensitive baby skin.

5. Flame-Retardant Clothing

Some baby clothes may contain flame-retardant chemicals, which have raised health concerns. So, opt for natural fibers like cotton and wash all new clothes before use to reduce exposure to these chemicals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, safeguarding infants entails vigilant scrutiny of baby products and dietary choices. Parents must heed warnings from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), avoiding untested or recalled items, and ensuring proper usage of second-hand products. It’s imperative to adhere to food and drink restrictions, prioritize products free from harmful substances like BPA, and choose flame-retardant-free clothing. While some items, such as co-sleepers and sling carriers, can be used with caution, parental supervision is paramount. By staying informed and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, parents can foster a secure environment conducive to the optimal health and development of their infants, thus averting potential hazards and ensuring peace of mind.