Parents warned about deadly baby sleep pillows

Do you use a baby sleep pillow? Or perhaps you know someone who does?

Please STOP.

Babies have tragically died when being put down on or next to baby sleep pillows.

Why are they so dangerous?

These soft pillows and cushions are often marketed for baby sleep or as somewhere for a baby to be left unsupervised. But this can cause suffocation or overheating, and the baby might even die.

Suffocation – the soft, squishy material can cover a baby’s nose or mouth if they are pressed up against it, causing the baby to suffocate. There would be no sound or warning that the baby is in trouble.

Overheating – the baby’s head can sink into the soft material, stopping heat from escaping. Overheating increases the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

That’s why the Office for Product Safety and Standards has issued a Safety Alert warning parents and carers to stop using these products for babies under one.

“These pillows look so innocent in the online adverts. The product names promise cuddles, hugs and anti-stress. The pictures show babies looking peaceful and cosy. But these pillows can be deadly.

“We urge parents to stop using them immediately and to warn friends or family who may have them too.”

Katrina Phillips, Chief Executive of the Child Accident Prevention Trust

Safety advice

• If you have bought a baby sleep pillow, stop using it straight away.
• Don’t put a baby sleep pillow in a cot or crib.
• Put your baby to sleep on a clear, firm, flat surface.
• Know the signs of overheating – a baby’s tummy feeling hot, sweating on their head or neck, irritability or breathing faster than usual.
• If the product you bought was marketed for baby sleep, or to be used without an adult present, you should contact the business you bought the pillow from. You may be due compensation under the Digital Markets Competition and Consumers Act 2024.

Businesses have been warned not to market any pillows or cushions for babies under one. So there should be no claims, photos or statements suggesting they can be used for babies this age.

If you think you’ve bought something unsafe, please report it so action can be taken to protect other families. Simply call:

• Citizens Advice consumer helpline (England and Wales): 0808 223 1133
• Citizens Advice consumer helpline (Welsh-speaking adviser): 0808 223 1144
• Advice Direct Scotland helpline: 0808 164 6000
• Northern Ireland Consumerline: 0300 123 6262. Or report your worries to your local district council.

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