Parents should never use any type of positioner or wedge to prop babies up or keep them on their back. These products have not be tested for safety or effectiveness and can be very dangerous, especially when your baby starts moving around or trying to roll over during sleep. Developmentally, we do not want to restrict a baby’s movements or ability to learn to roll and scoot.

If your baby is placed to sleep on his or her back from birth, they will be comfortable sleeping that way. Positioners are not  needed in the first weeks as your baby is not able to turn over. Once they do start moving around during sleep, positioners are dangerous because the baby could become stuck in an unsafe position. Positioners and wedges also increase the risk of re-breathing and suffocation should the baby get his or her face near the cushions, similar to a blanket, bumper pad, pillow or stuffed animal.

Remember, all you need to keep your baby safe and comfortable for sleep is a crib that meets current safety standards, a firm mattress that fits snuggly, a tight-fitting crib sheet (no padded mattress covers!) and your baby, on his or her back dressed in a sleep sack or sleeper. Adding anything else to the sleep area increases the risk of SIDS and suffocation.

Last Updated: Dec 30, 2009