CCPC issues warning to parents over 'baby sleep pillows'

Parents and caregivers in Ireland are being strongly advised against purchasing or using "baby sleep pillows" due to significant safety risks. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) issued a warning highlighting that these products, often marketed as soothing aids and appearing in animal shapes, can lead to suffocation or overheating in unattended or sleeping babies.

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Babies can suffocate if something covers their nose and mouth, such as pillows, cushions or other soft items. These items should never be placed in a baby's cot or left with an unattended baby.

The CCPC has taken action, issuing takedown notices that resulted in the removal of approximately 1,150 of these products from online platforms like Amazon, Ali Express, Fruugo, and Joom. These items, also known by names such as soothing pillows, baby sleep positioners, or sleep companions, are primarily sold by internet retailers and represent an "online phenomenon" with many products shipped from outside the EU.

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There is also a risk of a baby overheating if they are sleeping on a soft surface that their head can sink into. There is a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) if a baby overheats.

"Babies can suffocate if something covers their nose and mouth, such as pillows, cushions or other soft items," the CCPC stated. "These items should never be placed in a baby's cot or left with an unattended baby." Consultant in Public Health Medicine Dr. Fiona Cianci reinforced this, explaining that pillows in a cot increase the risk of suffocation and overheating, which is linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). She advised placing babies on their backs in a cot with a firm mattress, clear of all soft objects.

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Our advice is to never use any pillow, cushion or similar product in your baby’s cot.

Dr. Cianci also cautioned against claims that these pillows help with issues like reflux or flat head syndrome, reiterating the advice to never use any pillow or cushion in a baby's cot. Gráinne Griffin, CCPC Director of Communications, acknowledged that parents buy these products with good intentions but stressed the potential for serious harm. The CCPC is actively working to remove these unsafe listings from the market.

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Parents purchase these products hoping to help their babies, but they could cause serious harm.