Bumpers in the Crib

Christy

Your baby might get stuck a few times but she will learn how to move her legs in such a way to free herself. Until then you might have to rescue her. As she becomes more and more mobile, you have to be concerned about her using the bumpers as a stepping stool to reach and climb. I wouldn't worry about bone fractures from getting legs caught in the slats rather the dangers of her climbing/reaching for things that could pose a more serious danger.

Bumper pads are believed to be a risk factor for SIDS (same as blankets in the crib). It is thought that when the baby's face is turned into the bumper, the baby is breathing in carbon dioxide, instead of oxygen, and that may be one of the causes of SIDS. I don't like taking any chances like that. My son(now 3) did not have bumpers and he survived. Yes, he would wiggle himself in between the slats but I'd free him. He learned not to roll around so much. My husband often fought me on this, he thought he would break a bone too. I simply stated to him, "What would you rather have, some bumps and bruises or a dead baby?" And, "Can you break your bones rolling over with your leg stuck? No. How in the world do you think a little baby can do that then?" Now with #2 he hasn't said a word.

I have the breathable bumper pad, from babies r us, in my sons crib right now. they are not a sids risk, and when he starts rolling, he wont get hurt.

Christy-

Some babies need that soft comfort reminding them of being held by their parents to sleep. Once your baby can roll, she will roll away from the bumper if she needs to. I wouldn't use one with a newborn. Good luck.

Hi,

I have read that cribs not have these as a safety precaution and with no reasoning behind it. It can go both ways. I had the bumper pads in until both of my kids went to big girl beds. I have a two year old and a 7 1/2 year old. I would make sure the bumper pad is not pillow like (bulky) so, the kid does not use it as a pillow and suffocate.

Bumper pads were originally intended for wider spaces and are actually not recommended now. But I think they are useful for newborns as they start to roll over and such. They should be removed once your child can pull him or herself up. If you really prefer to have them, I have seen bumper pads that cover the whole side, top to bottom. This prevents the child from stepping on them, using as a step to fall out of the crib. It may have been the One Step catalog but I cannot remember where. I know it was on paper (maybe Chicago Parent?)