Parents seeking a convenient way to keep a newborn close at night should be aware of new safety findings from Consumer Reports. The nonprofit consumer‑advocacy group tested eight cantilever‑style bassinets – the models that extend over the side of a parent’s bed – and discovered that each one tilted when a standardized weight was placed on the sleeping surface.
Testing revealed concerning tilt angles
Consumer Reports’ senior safety analyst Jessica D’Argenio Waller explained that a firm, flat sleeping surface is essential for reducing the risk of a baby rolling into an unsafe position. In the laboratory, every cantilevered bassinet showed more than one degree of tilt. The Ingenuity Dream & Grow Bedside Bassinet performed the worst, tilting more than seven degrees under test conditions.
Link to tragic baby deaths
According to reports filed with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Ingenuity model has been associated with two baby deaths. Despite the fatalities, the product remains available for purchase both online and in brick‑and‑mortar stores.
Manufacturer response
The manufacturer disputed Consumer Reports’ conclusions, noting that the bassinet has passed testing by an accredited independent laboratory and complies with applicable safety standards. Consumer Reports does not contest the compliance finding, but emphasizes that compliance alone does not guarantee the absence of tilt‑related hazards.
Safety recommendations for families
Given the consistent tilt across all eight models, Consumer Reports recommends that parents avoid cantilevered bassinets altogether. Instead, families should use a traditional crib or bassinet that provides a stable, level surface. Additional guidance includes:
- Always place the baby alone, on their back, on a firm, flat sleep surface.
- Follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions precisely.
- If any wobbling or tilting is observed, stop using the product immediately.
What this means for parents
The findings underscore the importance of scrutinizing product safety claims, especially for items used during sleep. While cantilevered designs aim to make nighttime care easier, the potential for even a slight tilt can increase the risk of a baby rolling into a dangerous position.
Parents are encouraged to stay informed by consulting reputable consumer‑safety resources and to prioritize products that have demonstrated consistent stability in independent testing. By choosing proven, flat‑surface sleep solutions, families can help protect their newborns and ensure safer nights for everyone.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
