Q&A Forum

5/7/22

Emily

Just wondering if snoo (smart bassinets) are safe? They have a sleep sack that prevent them from rolling over when the bassinet rocks.

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Posted a response on 7/7/22

Red Nose Education

Red Nose recommends that the safest place for baby to sleep is in a cot that meets Mandatory Australian Standards, with a mattress that is firm, clean, well-fitting & flat (not elevated).

There are many products on the market which may not meet Safe Sleeping Guidelines.
There are no Mandatory Standards in Australia for bassinets, however, Product Safety Australia does have some “buying tips” for bassinets.
https://www.productsafety.gov.au/products/babies-kids/kids-furniture/bassinettes

Red Nose has the following information about bassinets
What to look for in a bassinet

A study bottom and wide stable base so it can’t tip over
Make sure all four sides of the bassinet are at least 300mm higher than the top of the mattress base to stop baby falling out.
Firm, flat mattress that’s the correct size for your chosen bassinet – the mattress should be no thicker than 75mm in thickness

Things to consider when using a bassinet

Always remember that a bassinet is for short-term use only – you should move baby to a safe cot when they shows signs of being able to rolling.
Ensure adjustable side panels are always kept in the upright position for sleep
Ensure folding legs are locked and cannot collapse when in use
Position safely, away from curtains, blinds, heaters or power points
All screws and bolts are tight to avoid accidental collapse
https://rednose.org.au/article/bassinets

While we are not aware of any specific incidents with this product, the potential for the baby being “rocked” into a side/tummy position remains, particularly if restraints are not used, or used loosely.

The have been claims that the SNOO is the safest, most effective baby bed.

Red Nose (& other International Safe Sleep specialists) states that the safest place for baby to sleep is in a cot that meets mandatory standards.

The other concern about these types of products is the use of restraints or sleep positioners.

Red Nose does not recommend positional products such as anti-roll devices and items that fasten a baby into a sleeping position.
Products that restrict the movement of a baby or a baby’s head should not be used.
This is because there are no Australian Standards for these products and case studies have shown that these products can be unsafe.
There is strong scientific evidence to show that the best way to reduce the risk of SIDS and sleep accidents is to sleep babies on their back with face and head uncovered, to avoid exposing babies to tobacco smoke and to provide a safe sleeping environment.
https://rednose.org.au/article/is-it-safe-to-use-products-designed-to-keep-baby-in-a-particular-position

Red Nose also has the following information when buying products for baby’s sleep.
It is important for parents when they are thinking of buying a product for their baby to be able to make the best informed decision based on evidence of product safety. This is crucial for preventing SUDI or other fatal sleeping accidents.
https://rednose.org.au/article/baby-safe-sleeping-products

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