65 Practical Ways to Keep Your Baby Safe from Top Hazards

I have divided this article on ways to keep your baby safe from hazards into two. The first part explains safety and existing safety standards as set by CPSC with details of four key hazards. The second section has detailed info on safety tips when using common baby products such as baby monitors, car seats, strollers, carriers, high chairs, and swings, among others.

We previously covered injury stats resulting from some common baby and kids’ products such as trampolines here. This guide is more general with comprehensive tips to secure your baby indoors and outdoors.

Let me start by giving some background on trend of unsafe baby gear recalls in the market over the past 2 decades. This will give you an idea of whether things are getting better or not.

In the 2011-2021 period, there were 76 recalls annually for baby products, almost half compared to 2001-2010 which had average annual recalls of 132 products. Part of the improvements in the safety of the products has been credited to the 2008 law passed called the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). Recalls for baby products have included walkers, play yards, bassinets, high chairs, and much more.

CPSC Safety Standards for Different Baby Products:

Cribs:

– No more than 2 3/8” between the slats

– Corner posts no more than 1/16” above the end panel

– No drop-side rail

– Sturdy construction

High Chairs:

– Must have a crotch post that is at least 3” high

– Must have a tray that locks into place

– Must have a footrest

– Must have a 5-point harness

Car Seats:

– Infant car seats must have a 5-point harness

– Convertible and forward-facing seats must have a tether strap

Bouncers and Swings:

– Must have a 5-point harness

– Must have a seat that is at least 16” wide

– Must have a seat back that is at least 12” high

Does CPSC Ensure all Baby Products Are safe?

No, the CPSC does not have the resources to test all baby products on the market for safety. However, they do investigate reports of injuries and accidents involving baby products. If they find that a product is unsafe, they will issue a recall. You can check the CPSC website for lists of recalled products.

Although the CPSC has issued many voluntary standards for baby products, not all companies follow these standards. Additionally, some products may be recalled after they have already been sold to consumers. That’s why it’s important for parents to stay up-to-date on product recalls and to register their products with the manufacturer to receive updates.

Some products such as baby monitors that use batteries are covered by CPSC’s standard on batteries as they are the identified hazard due to the risk of fire. CPSC’s categories of the products it has set standards have to have a safety component and not just be a comfort or preference item.

For products that don’t have a specific CPSC standard, such as strollers, ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials) creates voluntary standards that are often followed by manufacturers.

There are also independent organizations such as JPMA ( Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) that have their own certification program which is one way parents can be sure a product meets certain safety standards. Products that are certified by JPMA have a logo on the product or packaging.

In the next section, let’s look at some of the top hazards babies are prone to and associated recalls if the hazards are caused by baby products;

Hazard #1: Strangulation Hazard:

One of the most common hazards associated with baby products is strangulation. Strangulation can occur when a baby’s head and neck become entangled in a cord, strap, or another object.

Strangulation can be caused by wires in a baby nursery. Cords for products such as baby monitor receivers, changing table lamps, and window blinds can all pose a strangulation hazard.

1.7 Million video baby monitors are being recalled due to a strangulation hazard posed by the electrical cords. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that Summer Infant, Inc. is taking action to recall all video baby monitor systems with such cords.

Threads in woven baby blankets can come loose and detach also posing a strangulation hazard.

In October 2022, 108,000 units of woven baby blankets by Mittal International Baby Blankets

were recalled by CPSC after it was discovered that the threads in the blanket’s fringe could come loose and detach, posing a strangulation hazard to babies.

To prevent strangulation hazards:

– Keep all cords and wires out of reach of babies and toddlers

– Do not place baby cribs, bassinets, or playpens near windows with cords from blinds or draperies

– Do not hang toys or other objects with cords or strings in cribs, bassinets, playpens, or within a baby’s reach.

According to Safe Sleep, babies are most vulnerable at month 2, and cumulatively, 85% of all accidental deaths from strangulation and suffocation occur in the first 6 months.

This snapshot shows the dangers of accidental suffocation for babies, tips to prevent, with details on why infants below 6 are more vulnerable to strangulation and suffocation.

In the first 6 months, your baby is most vulnerable to strangulation because;

Their hemoglobin level is still low: This oxygen-carrying capacity of their blood is still low, which reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches their brain
They have a high rate of respiration: Because they breathe faster than adults, they use up oxygen quicker and are more susceptible to hypoxia
They spend more time in the supine position: This position makes it easy for their tongue to block their airway
They have weaker neck muscles: Which makes it harder for them to move their head if they become entangled
They are not yet able to roll from their back to their tummy: When they can’t roll, they can’t free themselves if they become entangled
They sleep for long periods (up to 18 hours a day)
They tend to just want to put everything in their mouths.

To reduce the risk of strangulation, follow these AAP guidelines

Use a firm mattress in the crib that fits snugly and is covered with a tight-fitting sheet- Remove all pillows, quilts, comforters, toys, and other soft items from the crib
Don’t put your baby to sleep with a bottle- If your baby uses a pacifier, make sure the cord is short and tassel-free
Keep all cords and strings out of reach and sight- Be especially careful with window blinds, as the cords can be easily wrapped around a baby’s neck
Don’t hang toys or other objects with cords or strings in the crib
Make sure your baby’s sleep area is free of pillows, toys, and other loose items
Make sure all gaps between the mattress and crib are no wider than the width of two fingers- If you can fit more than two fingers between the mattress and side of the crib, the mattress is too small and needs to be replaced
Consider using a crib tent to further prevent entrapment and strangulation hazards
The 2022 revised AAP guidelines specify that you need to avoid inclined sleepers at all costs

Hazard #2: Suffocation Hazard:

Suffocation can occur when a baby’s nose and mouth are covered by an object, such as a pillow, quilt, comforter, or stuffed animal.

Babies can also suffocate if they sleep on their stomachs with their face pressed into a mattress, sofa cushion, or another soft surface.

Some baby products that may pose a risk of suffocation include incline sleepers, soft bedding, and stuffed animals.

Recalls

On Wednesday in 2010, more than a million Infantino baby slings were recalled after reports stated that they had killed three infants by suffocating them with the soft fabric. The Consumer Product Safety Commission said that parents should stop using the slings for infants under 4 months immediately.

In February 2019, the CPSC recalled 4.7 million Rock ‘n Play Sleepers after it was linked to over 30 infant deaths. The recall included all inclined sleepers with model numbers starting with “Fisher-Price” and “Kids II.”

SwaddleMe By Your Bed Sleeper was recalled in January 2020 after it was linked to the death of an 8-month-old baby. The recall included all SwaddleMe By Your Bed Sleepers with model numbers starting with “10930” or “10931.” Graco also recalled Little Lounger Rocking Seats and Evenflo also recalled its inclined sleeper – the Pillo Portable Napper. Delta’s new brand of the inclined sleeper was also recalled in January 2020.

How suffocation happens:

– When an object covers the baby’s nose and mouth, preventing the baby from breathing

– When a baby sleeps on their stomach with their face pressed into a mattress, sofa cushion, or another soft surface

According to Safe to Sleep, more than 85% of all deaths from Accidental Suffocation and Strangulation in Bed occur from birth to 6 months of age. Your baby is, therefore, at high risk from birth to 6 months.

To prevent suffocation:

– Do not put pillows, quilts, comforters, or other soft products in a baby’s crib or bassinet

– Do not place a baby on their stomach to sleep

– Do not allow a baby to sleep on a sofa, couch, or another soft surface

– Do not put stuffed animals or other toys in a baby’s crib or bassinet

Hazard #3: Choking Hazard:

Choking is a leading cause of injury and death in children under the age of 5. Small objects such as toys, coins, jewelry, button batteries, and food are all potential choking hazards. Don’t give kids under age 3 dolls or stuffed toys with eyes, noses, or ribbons that might come off. Also, check toys regularly to make sure they are still in good condition. Sometimes parts break off.

CSPC has entire regulations on small parts in baby products. This regulation is designed to prevent injuries and fatalities in children under three from choking, inhaling, or swallowing small objects they may put in their mouths. It prohibits the manufacture and sale of toys and other products intended for use by children under three that have small parts or produce small parts when broken.

This regulation covers products that are intended for use by children under three. These products include, but are not limited to, toys, dolls, and puzzles; nursery equipment; infant furniture and equipment such as playpens, strollers, and baby bouncers and exercisers. See 16 C.F.R. Part 1501.2 for a more detailed list of covered products.

Children choking is a leading cause of death in children under age 5, with many items being able to fit perfectly into a child’s throat and blocking their airway. To avoid this, do not let your children play with anything that is 1.75 inches (4.4 centimeters) in diameter or less, such as marbles, coins balls, etc.

Below are what qualifies as small parts;

Below are baby products that must meet the regulations on small parts;

Pacifiers – 16 C.F.R. 1511
Rattles – 16 C.F.R. 1510
Cribs – 16 C.F.R. 1508, 1509
Infant Pillows, Cushions – 16 C.F.R. 1500.18(a)(16)
Baby Walkers, Bouncers, Jumpers – 16 C.F.R. 1500.18(a)(6)
Electrically Operated Toys – 16 C.F.R. 1505
Dolls, Stuffed Toys and Other Products that may cause lacerations or punctures. – 16 C.F.R. 1500.18(a)(1), (2), (3)
Small Balls – 16 C.F.R. 1500.18(a)(17)

Of the five fatalities reported by CPSC, three of them Involved choking on a small toy(a party favor toy, rubber ball, and an unspecified ball). One child died from blunt head Injury after falling into a toy organizer; while another passed away due to positional asphyxia–being found wedged between a bed and stuffed animal. The victims ranged in age from 8 months old to 3 years old.

There have even been cases of dog deaths from chewing stuffed animals. A recent report from December 2019 revealed that a 3-year-old Virginia boy died after choking on a toy horse. The child was found unresponsive at his home and later pronounced dead at the hospital.

In the book “Safe Infant Sleep” by James McKenna, he explains that in order to prevent positional asphyxia, it is recommended that parents avoid letting their infants sleep on their stomachs or side. The book also recommends the use of a firm mattress in the crib and avoiding soft bedding, such as blankets and pillows.

How to prevent choking hazards:

Avoid objects with small parts that, such as marbles, buttons, coins,and toys with small parts that can be detached.
Choose age-appropriate toys.
Read the labels on toys and follow the recommended age range.
Inspect toys regularly to make sure they are still in good condition.
Avoid giving children under 3 years old stuffed toys or dolls with eyes, noses, or ribbons that might come off.
Make sure that balls are the right size for the child. A good rule is to choose a ball that is small enough to fit through a toilet paper roll.
Be aware of foods that can be choking hazards. Some examples are hot dogs, popcorn, nuts, seeds, hard candy, and gum. Cut food into small pieces and supervise children when they are eating.

What to do in case your baby is choking on a small part like a marble?

If your baby is choking on a small object, remove it if possible. If you are unable to remove the object, call 911 immediately and begin CPR if you are trained. Do not try to give the child anything to eat or drink. Try not to panic as this will only make the situation worse.

CPR training can be lifesaving in an emergency situation. Knowing how to properly perform CPR can help you save a life. There are many organizations that offer CPR training, such as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. You can also find CPR classes at your local community center or hospital.

Red Cross recommends giving 5 chest thrusts:

1. Turn the baby over so they are facing upwards.

2. Place two fingers in the middle of their chest just below the nipples and push sharply downwards up to five times.

3. Chest thrusts squeeze the air out of lungs and may dislodge any blockage that might be causing difficulty breathing

If after 5 blows the object doesn’t come out of your baby’s mouth or nose, do these 4 steps recommended by Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente;

1. Turn the infant face up. Use your thigh or lap for support. Support the head.

2. Place 2 fingers on the middle of his breastbone just below the nipples.

3. Give up to 5 quick thrusts down, compressing the chest 1/3 to 1/2 the depth of the chest.

4. Continue this series of 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until the object is dislodged or the infant loses consciousness.

Below are the signs your baby is choking;

Inability to cry or make much sound
Weak, ineffective coughing
Soft or high-pitched sounds while inhaling
Difficulty breathing – ribs and chest retract
Bluish skin color
Loss of consciousness if blockage is not cleared

Hazard #4: Burns and Fire Hazard:

Choking and suffocation are not the only dangers to young children. There is also the risk of fire. In fact, fires and burns are one of the leading causes of injury and death in children under the age of 5. CPSC has put in place children’s sleepwear flammability standards which require that children’s sleepwear must be flame resistant and self-extinguish if a flame from a candle, match, lighter or a similar item causes it to catch fire. The rules cover all children’s sleepwear above size 9 months and up to size 14.

Causes of baby burns:

According to Kidshealth.org, Out of all early childhood burns, scalds from hot water and other liquids are the most common. The severity of a burn can differ greatly, with some only needing at-home treatment while others require emergency medical care.

According to this NY State guide, below are the common causes of burns;

Children’s skin touching hot metals, like a stove, curling iron or flames (such as the fireplace).
Swallowing chemicals, like drain cleaner or bleach.
Biting on electrical cords or sticking fingers or objects in electrical outlets.
Sunburns are inflammation (swelling) of the skin caused by too much exposure to the sun.

There have been reports of children being injured by toy cars that contain lithium-ion batteries. One such report involved a 3-year-old boy who suffered first and second-degree burns on his leg after a toy car he was riding in exploded.

The boy’s mother says she was just feet away from rips in his pants. The boy’s mother says she was just feet away from her son when the car exploded and says she is now concerned about other children who may be playing with similar toys.

Upscale brand Roberta Roller Rabbit recalled about 32,000 sets of pajamas that pose a potential fire hazard to children back in 2015. This recall follows several reports in which the company’s products caught fire, causing minor injuries to children.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Children under five are at a higher risk for injury or death from a home fire than any other age group.

How to keep your baby safe from hot food that my cause burning.

Below are helpful guidelines from the official NY State’s Department of Health to keep your baby safe when serving hot food;

Never carry a baby and hot liquids at the same time.
Never heat baby bottles of formula or milk in a microwave.
Never leave food unattended on a stove when cooking.
Turn pot handles inward and out of a child’s reach.
Use non-slip placemats instead of tablecloths when serving hot foods or drinks. This will help prevent children from pulling on them and spilling hot items.
Stir and test all food prepared in a microwave. Microwaves heat foods unevenly. Foods may reach temperatures greater than boiling without looking like they are bubbling.

How to prevent your baby from fire hazards:

1. Never leave your child unattended near a fire

2. Keep matches and lighters out of reach

3. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home

4. Create and practice a home fire escape plan

5. Fireproof the fireplace in your home

6. Use only approved batteries for baby products – some run the risk of overheating and exploding

7.- Don’t leave candles or cigarettes burning unattended.

8. Keep matches and lighters out of reach.

9. Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat

What to do in case your baby has been burned;

If your child has been burned, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as burns can be very serious. To treat a burn, follow these steps

Remove any clothing or jewelry from the area of the burn.
Put some tepid water on the burn – not too hot, not too cold
Hold the affected area under the water for 5 to 10 minutes
Apply a sterile gauze bandage or clean cloth to the burn
Do not apply ice, ointment, butter or any other home remedy to the burn
If your child is awake and alert, offer ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain.

Kate Cronan, MD advises that you get emergency treatment if;

The burned area is large (cover the area with a clean, soft cloth or towel).
The burns came from a fire, an electrical wire or socket, or chemicals.
The burn is on the face, hands, feet, joints, or genitals.
The burn looks infected while it is healing. Signs of infection include swelling, pus, or increasing redness or red streaking of the skin near the burn area.

The majority of people who are scalded by tap water each year are elderly or under five years old, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). To prevent accidents, they advise all households lower their water heater temperatures to 120 degrees Fahrenheit—which also conserves energy and saves money.

To prevent scalding, for kids under 1 year old set your water heater to 120°F (49º C) or lower, or between low and medium. If you can’t control the heater, install anti-scald devices on all faucets and showerheads. Stop the flow of piping hot water if it is hotter than 120º F.

What studies unraveled:

According to a 2005 Study by Dorothy A Drago published in the National Library of Medicine Journal reported scalds from 1997 to 2002 were nearly twice as common as thermal burns. Hot water was the primary reason for scald injuries. The 2 most frequent types of scald patterns were (1) when a child reached up and pulled a pot of hot water off the stove or other elevated surface and (2) when a child grabbed, overturned, or spilled a container of hot water onto him- or herself.

One-year-olds had the highest risk for scalds and thermal burns. Scalds resulted in more hospitalizations than thermal burns. In nearly all injury patterns, boys were injured more often than girls, but the ratio varied depending on the type of injury.

What about the info about babyproofing – and less info on anti-scalding products?

You will find a lot of affiliate-specific sites writing a lot about the best gates for fireproofing without looking at the holistic picture of specific fire hazards in a home. While fireplaces contribute to a substantial amount of accidental burns to infants and kids, the scalding risk is actually higher by more than 30%. Since most of these sites do not find many anti-scalding products for kids, they write extensively on the lesser risk of burns from home fireplaces.

Baby Hazards by Baby Product Type:

9 Baby Monitors Safety Tips to note:

IN 2011, Summer Infant recalled nearly 2 million units after 2 reported deaths. Read more on CNBC here. Issues with batteries exploding led to a further recall in 2014 of a total of 800,000 units.

While such big recalls haven’t been reported since 2014, below are some tips to be aware when using any video or audio monitor;

Do not place or mount the camera within the crib – can mount it over the crib
Ensure the baby camera unit of the monitor and the cable is at least 3 feet from the baby
Secure or hide the cords on the wall using a wire concealer
Never use extension cords with AC adapters. Only use the AC adapters provided
Inspect the monitor for damage before each use. If damaged, do not use it and return it to the manufacturer immediately.
Carefully discard unwanted batteries
Make sure you change the default password of the monitor if you get a brand that comes with default account details.
Ensure you use a strong password with at least 16 characters and a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
Be sure to keep the monitoring system away from water
Consider getting a non-wifi monitor that is safe and cannot be hacked. Here is my top pick with a comparison.

8 Car Seats Safety Tips to Note:

20,000+ child car seats have been recalled because bits of detached foam can cause a choking hazard, as per WebMD reporting here.

The recall affects CYBEX Sirona M Convertible Child Car Seats manufactured between November 3, 2017, and August 31, 2018. This includes model numbers 518000385, 518002153, 518000387, 518002145 ,518002149,518002151 ,and5190002111 which were initially reported by GMA.

Never put a rear-facing car seat in the front seat: Babies should always ride in the back seat if they’re using rear-facing seats and under 2.
If the car has passenger airbags, put the car seat in a position where the airbag will not hit the baby’s head or neck if it deploys
Make sure the harness straps are snug against the baby’s body and that the chest clip is at the armpit level
Before each use, check that the car seat is not expired, damaged, or recalled
Never use a car seat that’s been in a crash
Ensure you get a brand without any loose small parts such as choking that present a choking hazard.

10 High Chairs Safety Tips to Note:

Make sure the chair is on a surface that’s flat and cannot be tipped over easily
Always check that the chair is locked in place before using it if it is a folding chair.
Whenever your child sits in the chair, use the safety straps, including the crotch strap
Check that there are no small parts that can come off and become choking hazards.
Inspect the chair for damage before each use. If damaged, do not use and return to the manufacturer immediately.
Check that the high chair doesn’t have any loose screws, missing parts, or other damage before each use
Make sure the tray is locked into place and can’t be removed by the baby
Never leave the baby unattended in the high chair
Use the restraints provided with the high chair at all times
Make sure the baby’s feet can’t reach the floor while in the high chair. If they can, raise the seat or use a footrest

6 Bouncers and Swings Safety Tips to Note:

Do not let your baby sleep in the swing
Do not let your baby stay in the swing for longer than an hour in any given period.
Make sure the bouncer or swing is on a level surface
Never place the bouncer or swing near a stove, fireplace, or other heat sources
Never leave your baby unattended in the bouncer or swing
Check for loose screws, missing parts, or other damage before each use. If any damage is found, do not use and return to the manufacturer immediately

8 Cribs Safety Tips to Note:

More than 9 million baby cribs have been recalled since 2007 due to entrapment, suffocation and asphyxia:

Choose a crib that meets the latest safety standards set by the CPSC Make sure the crib has wide slats that are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart.
The slats should also be made of solid wood, not metal or plastic
Cribs should have a firm mattress that fits snugly against the crib’s sides with no gaps
Always use a tight-fitting sheet designed specifically for crib mattresses
Do not put pillows, quilts, comforters, or other soft bedding in the crib. These can cause suffocation
Make sure the crib has no missing, loose, or broken parts
Do not use a drop-side crib. These have been linked to injuries and fatalities
If you are using a second-hand crib, make sure it meets all current safety standards and that you have all the necessary parts

11 Strollers Safety Tips to Note:

The stroller should also have a 5-point harness to keep your baby secure
Make sure the brakes are engaged when the stroller is not in use
Never leave your baby unattended in the stroller
Check for loose screws, missing parts, or other damage before each use
Never put the stroller near a stove, fireplace, or other heat sources
Always respect the weight limit and stop using the stroller when your baby reaches the maximum weight limit for the product
Always be close or next to your baby when they’re on the stroller
Consider a stroller brand that you can lock both front and back wheels with easily-accessible handles or controls. Make sure you go with a model that doesn’t have brake levers in the front where your baby can reach.
Make sure the stroller is fully unfolded before using it: some models can collapse unexpectedly. To avoid this ensure the latches are fully locked before use. Latches and crotch straps should always be used to secure your baby in the stroller
Never put anything else in the stroller with your baby, such as shopping bags or toys. These can tip the stroller over or block your view of your baby.
Be mindful of what you’re putting under the stroller’s sun canopy. If it’s too long, it can get caught in the wheels and cause the stroller to tip over

13 Carriers and Slings Safety Tips to Note:

When using a baby carrier, make sure your baby’s airway is clear and that they can breathe easily
Bending forward at the waist when carrying your baby in a carrier is incorrect posture and risks tipping the baby out or hurting your back—always bend from the knees instead.
Read the instructions of the brand you’ve purchased and learn to use it correctly by watching manufacturer-prepared video tutorials.
If you are using a second-hand carrier or sling, make sure it has all the original parts and instructions
Get a carrier with weight and height limitations suitable for your baby
Do not cover your baby’s face with any fabric
Ensuring that the baby’s head and neck are supported
Occasionally check your baby to ensure that they are comfortably breathing.
Only use carriers and slings that have been tested to meet safety standards. JPMA has voluntary standards
Make sure the waist belt is fastened snugly and lies flat against your body
The shoulder straps should also be adjusted so that the carrier is comfortable for you to wear
In order to protect your child, make sure that the backpack carrier you purchase has a padded aluminum frame. Additionally, a sunshade will come in useful.
If you have back pain, get a carrier with pads on the sites.

Dangers of baby falling on head:

Babies are top-heavy and have large head-to-body ratios, which makes them more likely to fall forward and hit their heads. Head injuries are the most common type of injury associated with falls in babies.

When they fall on the head, your baby may experience a skull fracture, concussion, or brain injury. While most falls will not cause serious harm, it’s important to be aware of the dangers and take steps to prevent head injuries.

There are several ways to help prevent your baby from falling and injuring their head, including:

• Use a baby carrier or sling when you are walking with your baby. This will help keep them close to your body and prevent them from falling.

• When you are holding your baby, support their head and back.

• Never leave your baby unattended on a changing table, couch, or bed. Always put them in a safe place before you walk away.

• Use gates to block off areas where your baby could fall, such as stairs.

• Keep toys and furniture away from windows so your baby can’t climb up and fall out.

• Make sure rugs are securely fastened to the floor so they don’t slip and cause your baby to fall.

By taking these precautions, you can help keep your baby safe from head injuries.

More severe injuries, though very rare, can include a skull fracture. This puts pressure on the brain and can cause swelling, bruising, or bleeding around or inside of the brain. These are serious circumstances that require emergency medical attention.

what are the top choking hazards for babies?

CDC has listed the following as top choking hazards for babies;

Cooked or raw whole corn kernels.
Uncut cherry or grape tomatoes.
Pieces of hard raw vegetables or fruit, such as raw carrots or apples.
Whole pieces of canned fruit.
Uncut grapes, berries, cherries, or melon balls.
Uncooked dried vegetables or fruit, such as raisins.

FAQs

are baby mittens a choking hazard?

Mittens with decorations, strings, or loose threads can pose a choking hazard for infants. When the cotton comes out of the baby’s mouth, it can become lodged in their throat and cause them to choke. If your baby’s mouth is scratched, using a soft emery board may help alleviate the irritation. According to Hemm, using plain cloth mittens for newborns is fine as long as it makes parents feel comfortable. However, she does not recommend using them for longer than two weeks.

Many pajama brands have mittens and for infants before 6 months, these brands increases the risk of SIDs and you should be careful to avoid them when picking a safe pajama.

Sources:

https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents/2021-11/suf-strang-info.pdf
To report products that pose a choking hazard, call CPSC’s hotline at 800-638-2772.
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/major-recall-baby-monitors-linked-2-deaths-flna1c9466291
https://www.healthline.com/health/baby/baby-choking#step-by-step
https://www.redcross.org.uk/first-aid/learn-first-aid-for-babies-and-children/choking-baby#:~:text=Give%20up%20to%20five%20chest,and%20may%20dislodge%20the%20blockage.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100221_1.htm
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100221_1.htm
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/burns-sheet.html#:~:text=Run%20cool%20(not%20cold)%20water,these%20can%20make%20it%20worse.
https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/injury_prevention/children/fact_sheets/infants_0-1_year/burn_and_scald_prevention_birth-1_year.htm
https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5098-Tap-Water-Scalds.pdf
Kitchen scalds and thermal burns in children five years and younger –https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15629975/
Comparison of childhood burns associated with use of microwave ovens and conventional stoves – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8424008/
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20220421/child-car-seats-recalled-because-of-choking-hazard
https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/family/story/20000-car-seats-recalled-choking-hazard-84195042
https://www.seattlechildrens.org/health-safety/keeping-kids-healthy/prevention/preventing-scald-burns/
https://www.seattlechildrens.org/health-safety/keeping-kids-healthy/prevention/preventing-scald-burns/
American Academy of Pediatrics
American Burn Association
Burn Prevention Foundation

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Sandra W Bullock

Sandra W. Bullock is a grand-mom to two boys and is part of the review board here at Motherhoodhq.com. She is responsible for the quality control of content and is among our most experienced moms. She has over 20 years of writing parenting content online focussing on baby safety indoors and outdoors. She has written widely on babyproofing nurseries and homes for infants and toddlers and published work on privacy and the safety of baby monitors. She is a renowned advocate for non-wifi baby monitors that cannot be hacked and spends a lot of time educating parents on how to secure their homes – including ways to secure the baby from harm in and around homes. Sandra is a native of Atlanta where she also works. She can be reached using her email, Sandra.w(at)motherhoodhq.com

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Sharon Carter

Hello! My name is Sharon Carter, a mom, and a certified pediatrician. I recently joined the review team here at Motherhood HQ and provide oversight and quality control on topics touching on critical childcare topics. My 16 years of experience practicing medicine has given me an edge in understanding infants and toddlers’ medical needs and I try to translate that into their physical needs – in terms of product recommendations. As a childcare safety specialist, I have also written widely on creating a safe space for kids at home including ideas on designing the best nursery. After my undergraduate degree in Biology and subsequent years at medical school, I complete my residency in pediatrics at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan.

I do provide one-on-one consultations with parents on different child medical needs but request that you reach out to me directly using the contact form.

Name: Sharon Carter
Profession: Medical Doctor specializing in kids’ health (Pediatrician)
Email: s.carter@motherhoodhq.com and s.carter334@gmail.com (personal).
Address: Michigan, USA
Role: Quality control reviewer/editor at Motherhood HQ
Website: Motherhood HQ