Wicklow Parents Warned Over Baby Sleep Pillows

Public health experts says pillows, cushions and similar products should not be in a cot as they could suffocate your baby or cause baby to overheat.

Parents across Wicklow are being urged to avoid using 'baby sleep pillows'.  The consumer watchdog is warning they can increase the risk of suffocation and overheating in infants and items should never be placed in a baby's cot or used with an unattended infant.

More than 1,100 of these products have been removed from sale from major online marketplaces, including Amazon, AliExpress, Fruugo and Joom.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission advises they're often marketed as sleep aids for babies and sold as baby sleep positioners, soothing pillows or sleep companions.  The soft, cushioned pillows are frequently designed in animal shapes, and primarily sold online rather than by Irish retailers. 

NOTE: Baby sleep pillows are regulated under the European Communities (General Product Safety) Regulations 2004 which requires all products to be safe. Because baby sleep pillows create a risk of suffocation and overheating, they do not meet these safety requirements and must not be sold in Ireland.

There's growing concerns some online sellers continue to market the products as helping with conditions like reflux or flat head syndrome. If you bought such products the advice is to stop using it immediately and contact the retailer regarding a refund.

HEALTH EXPERT ADVICE

Health experts are adding to the warning, saying babies can suffocate if their nose or mouth becomes covered by a pillow, cushion or other soft item. The HSE also advises keeping a baby's sleeping area clear of fluffy or padded items.