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Chicago bans sale of crib bumpers

Lawmakers in Chicago, IL have decided that crib bumpers aren't worth the risk, and have placed a city-wide ban on the sale of the bedding accessory. Bumpers are commonly sold in most baby bedding sets.

Previous research has implicated crib bumpers in a number of infant deaths. The Consumer Product Safety Commission is currently conducting a safety review, investigating bumpers for suffocation and carbon dioxide inhalation hazards.

Lawmakers in Chicago - the first city to take legal action against bumpers - believe the suspected hazards justify banning bumpers now, even before the CPSC concludes its study. Maryland is considering a similar law.

Naturally, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association say crib bumpers are safe when used properly, and in fact help to prevent little arms and legs from getting stuck between crib railings. In a statement the JPMA urged Chicago "to reconsider all scientific data on crib bumper pad use.”

Do you use crib bumpers? Now that Chicago has banned them, are you concerned that that they're unsafe?

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Comment by terry g on October 4, 2011 at 5:37pm: I did not use the bumper until he was 1yr old...but he thrashes so much and hits his head and cries without it. at an older age I think they are safe, but would not suggest it with a newborn....

Comment by April Gersbach on October 4, 2011 at 10:28am: I used bum per pads for both my kids and they were never a problem! My son is now 4 and my daughter is 16 mths. I have kept them in there because she is such a wild sleeper. I tried taking them off and when I went to check on her her legs were stuck in the bars! I think it's up to the parent.

Comment by April M Bortner on September 23, 2011 at 4:47pm: I am afraid that my daughter will use it as a "stepping helper" too. I lowered the crib to the least that it can go. But will prob have to move it when she gets taller. But it helps tremendoulsly preventing her arms and legs going through the bars.

Comment by 3boyzmama on September 20, 2011 at 6:51pm: That's a bummer. I had heard that crib bumpers were dangerous because of the chance of suffocation or decreased air flow right when I had made a beautiful bumper set for my middle child and then only used for a few months. As for the comment below from Rachael, check out the "Crib Tent", that's what I got for my 21 mo old when we switched cribs and he could jump out. I'm totally not ready for him to be in a toddler bed yet. We have a new baby and I need my sleep. At first the tent made me feel like I was caging him in, but we both got used to it quickly and now I swear by them! Good luck=)

Comment by Rachael Lennon on September 20, 2011 at 4:51pm: I had to take my sons(16mos) out anyways because he was using them as a step to try and climb out. Were moving in about 3 weeks so when the crib goes back up its probably going to have to be a toddler bed. He just wants to escape the crib lol

Comment by Tjade1129 on September 20, 2011 at 3:32pm: Seriously! One more thing lawmakers try and control, whats next banning stuffed animals in cribs. The use of bumper pads should be up to the parents. If they choose not to purchase then so be it, but there should not be a ban against selling them. I proudly and safely use bumper pads, the soft and thick kind, so my son doesn't bruise his head when he falls or pushes up against the sides.

Comment by pezhead26 on September 20, 2011 at 9:15am: I think it also depends on the bumper and the need. My little one rocks himself and sometimes when he rocks he hits his head on the side of the crib. So these bumpers are protecting him from hitting his head directly on the crib.

Comment by mama0313 on September 19, 2011 at 4:14am: really i think it depends on the type of bumper. i woouldn't got for thick plush type. i know i need mine bc my lo really hits her head etc. mine are just a little thicker than the breathable ones. i can't see the breathable ones protecting a bump to the head. i also slept in the same room with her til 6m and still do if she's sick or something. i'll be removing them soon though as soon as she is able to stand/pullup.

Comment by Erin Corcoran on September 18, 2011 at 12:31pm: slats are necessary for ventilation.

Comment by Bethany Ann, Star Mom on September 16, 2011 at 2:28pm: I have to wonder...It'd probably look a little odd, but why are there slats in cribs in the first place? Why not make it either solid wood or like the back of a couch with firm material? that would prevent kids from getting limbs stuck, and keep us from having to use bumpers in the first place. What is the purpose of slats?