Are Cot Bumpers Safe?

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Between bassinets, change tables, and convertible cots, many new parents want to know: cot bumpers—are they safe?

What safe sleep looks like has changed a lot in the last 20-30 years, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed.

It’s not surprising that parents want to put baby down in a super soft environment, but recent recommendations on safe sleep for infants suggest that cot bumpers might not be the way to go.

Let’s talk about why cot bumpers are not safe, and what you need to know about safe sleep for your little one.

What are cot bumpers?

Cot bumpers are padded cushions which line the inside of the cot.

The idea is that these bumpers will protect your little one from knocking their head (or any other part of their body) against the hard parts of the cot, and keep them safely cocooned in the centre.

Are cot bumpers safe for babies?

So, are bumpers safe for cots? The short answer is no.

Cot bumpers are not recommended. While these products are marketed as a safety tool, the risks far outweigh the benefits.

It’s natural to want your baby to be surrounded by cushioning, but the reality is that cot bumpers are largely used for babies who don’t have the strength to cause themselves any real injury with the sides of the cot.

 Worse, babies at this age may find themselves in a position where their airways are compromised by the bumper, and they don’t have the strength to move away.

Older babies could use the cot bumpers to climb out of their cot, leading to a far more serious injury than they would have experienced inside the cot.

It can be hard to get your head around pillows posing a serious risk, so let’s talk about what cot bumpers are safe, if any, and what risks you should be aware of before proceeding.

Are air mesh cot bumpers safe?

Air mesh bumpers are often marketed as a safer alternative because they allow more airflow than traditional padded bumpers.

While they do reduce the risk of suffocation compared to thicker models, they still pose risks like entrapment or being used by older babies to climb.

Air mesh bumpers are not recommended by Red Nose Australia or other safe sleep organisations, as no bumper is considered entirely risk-free.

Are braided cot bumpers safe?

Like other padded bumpers, braided bumpers can increase the risk of suffocation, entanglement, and even climbing injuries once your baby is more mobile.

Their chunky, plush design makes them particularly hazardous for younger babies who don’t yet have good head control.

Are breathable cot bumpers safe?

Even so-called breathable bumpers come with cautions.

While they may lessen the chance of suffocation by allowing more airflow, breathable bumpers can still pose a strangulation or entrapment risk.

Current safe sleep guidelines recommend keeping the cot free from all bumpers, regardless of material or design.

Additionally, there is no indication that cot bumpers reduce injuries to infants, so there’s no real benefit.

Risks associated with cot bumpers

• Suffocation :
  Babies can roll into the bumper and become trapped, making it difficult to breathe, especially before they develop strong head or neck control.
• Strangulation :
  Ties or loose fabric from the bumper can pose a strangulation risk if a baby becomes entangled.
• Entrapment :
  Babies can get arms, legs, or even their face stuck between the bumper and cot slats or mattress.
• Overheating :
  Cot bumpers can restrict airflow around the cot, potentially causing the baby to become too hot while sleeping.
  

What age are cot bumpers safe?

Many parents wonder: are cot bumpers safe for 6 month old babies, or even slightly older infants?

The truth is, cot bumpers are not considered safe at any age during infancy.

Whether you're asking are cot bumpers safe for 8 month old or are cot bumpers safe for 9 month old babies, the answer remains no.

This is because at these ages, babies are typically more mobile. They might be rolling, sitting, or even pulling up, which actually increases the risk of entanglement or using the bumper as leverage to climb out of the cot.

Experts recommend a completely clear sleep space throughout your baby’s first year and beyond.

Alternatives to cot bumpers

• A bare cot is the safest sleep space for your baby. Ideally, little one should be sleeping on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet, and nothing else. No bumpers, no toys, and no pillows, or quilts.
• Sleep sacks or baby sleeping bags keep your little one cosy without the need for loose blankets, reducing the risk of suffocation or overheating.
• Well-fitted cot sheets prevent any bunching or loosening that could become a hazard.
• A cot with closely spaced slats so your baby’s limbs won’t get stuck.
• Breathable mesh liners (used with caution) that attach securely and sit low on the cot walls. While marketed as “breathable,” they’re not recommended by all experts, so be cautious and always check with your health professional before using.
• Move the cot away from hazards like drafts, cords, or bumps. Repositioning the cot within the room is often a safer fix than padding it.

What if you already have cot bumpers?

There is a lot to learn about babies and safe sleep, and many parents buy cot bumpers before they’re made aware of the risk.

If you already have cot bumpers, whether they’re braided, breathable, or mesh, the best thing you can do is remove them.

According to safe sleep guidelines, your baby’s cot should be clear of pillows, loose blankets, toys, and bumpers to reduce the risk of suffocation or entrapment.

It’s natural to want to protect your baby from falls and scrapes, but you should remember that even if these injuries occur (and remember, there is no indication that cot bumpers decrease the likelihood) these injuries are far more temporary and fixable than suffocation.