There has been a rise in innovative ‘sleep solutions’ for new babies. However, recent research suggests that ‘inclined sleepers’ (anything with an incline above 10 degrees essentially) are a major AVOID. Sticking to a flat mattress is a simple way to reduce risk. We take a look at what the research uncovered and what you should know… 

Most of us are not only aware, but hyper-aware of SIDS and sleeping risks in new babies. We also know that the first year is the time we have to be most vigilant around safe sleeping. Click here for much more on the subject. 

However, against this, we all want our babies sleeping well and comfortably. This can be particularly tricky if you baby has colic/reflux. The trouble is that there are now lots of fancy ‘sleep solution’ products on the market that can look appealing, but actually inadvertently increase risk. 

We believe that knowledge and awareness is crucial. We also believe firmly in the latest research and science which is why we were so interested to see a warning from the Consumer Product Safety Commission in the US against baby sleeping products that had an incline of more than 10 degrees. 

What does this mean? 

The safety commission in the US was reacting to a number of deaths and an independent report conducted by PhD Erin Mannen. The study monitored movements and oxygen levels in babies between 2 and 6 months old in inclined sleepers vs flat. The report has concluded that inclined sleepers should be avoided completely. 

Where does the risk from babies in inclined sleepers come from?

The research showed that inclined sleepers allows babies to move very differently vs when they are on a firm and flat mattress. It could also allow babies to roll onto their stomachs more easily. When the babies did roll over they found:

• They exerted nearly 250% more muscle activity
• Oxygen levels dropped twice as much 

The study showed that even a 20 degree incline poses a risk.

Not worth it! 

What to do for safer sleeping? 

It’s pretty simple. As appealing as these inclined products can seem (and look) they should be completely avoided. The American Association of Paediatrics strongly supports this and reiterates that:

‘There is no such thing as a safe infant inclined sleeper, a product that typically positions an infant at an incline of up to 30 degrees and usually has design elements such as a rounded sleep surface and plus side padding. The AAP recommends that infants sleep on their backs, alone, unrestrained, on a firm, flat surface, free of padding, bumpers, and other soft bedding.’

So: pretty simple message. Stick to flat and avoid these products completely. Easy!

For much more on the science as to how to reduce risk and promote safe sleep click here. 

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