Should we use a ‘smart bassinet’?
It is important to keep baby safe, but it is also important to get a good night’s sleep!
What do we know about these products and what further evidence is still needed:
- Red Nose advises placing babies on their back for sleep on a firm and flat surface.
- Babies may sleep longer or wake less in a smart bassinet. However, it is not known how this might impact on the risk of sudden and unexpected infant death.
- Smart bassinets use straps or positioners to keep babies on their back during sleep. This practice is not supported by evidence.
- Holding a baby in place may affect the development of baby’s strength and coordination. This may reduce their ability to roll safely from their tummy to their back.
- The use of smart bassinets for high-risk babies, such as those born prematurely or with low birth weight, is not supported by evidence.
- There are no safety standards for bassinets, so it’s important to know what makes a bassinet safe.
- Any bassinet is for short-term use only. You should move baby to a safe cot when they show signs of being able to roll.
- Always refer to Australian Safety Standards for infant products.
Put your baby’s safety first when thinking about using a smart bassinet.
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