Hammocks have become a popular alternative to beds for sleeping or taking relaxing naps in. However, some parents wonder if it’s safe enough for babies.
Hammocks, even those designed for infants, are not safe for babies to sleep in. It poses many health hazards such as rolling out of the hammock, delayed development, and a risk of asphyxiation. The safest way for a newborn to sleep should always be on their back, in a firm and flat mattress.
Make sure that your baby sleeps safely. Read on below to learn more about why hammocks aren’t safe for babies.
Are Baby Hammocks Safe for Newborns?
It may be tempting to buy or use a baby hammock for your newborn because you have read or personally experienced the benefits of using a hammock yourself.
However, using hammocks, even those specially designed for newborns, are not safe. They can pose serious health risks:
- Newborns should not be left in swinging seats, hammocks included, of any kind. They can find it difficult to hold their head up and this can lead to breathing obstructions or asphyxiation.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics always recommends that babies should sleep on a firm and flat surface as part of a safe sleeping space even for short naps.
- Babies can roll over the hammock and fall out, resulting in serious injury.
- Sleeping in a hammock causes babies to sleep with their chins facing their chest, leading to asphyxiation.
- Infants who sleep on their sides or bellies are at risk for sudden infant death syndrome.
In addition, there have been no strong and peer-reviewed studies that verify the safety of hammocks for babies. There is still nothing that is safer than a baby sleeping on their back on top of a firm, flat mattress.
Conclusion
Hammocks should be reserved for older children and adults. With all the safety risks and health hazards associated with babies sleeping on hammocks, it is never recommended to let your newborn use one.
