Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) Issue Safety Alert on Baby Sleep Pillows

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a Safety Alert to warn about the risks associated with baby sleep pillows. Everyone who cares for children are urged to stop using baby sleep pillows immediately and follow safer sleep advice to reduce the risk of harm. Baby safer sleep advice - Best Start in Life - NHS

The Safety Alert advises that baby sleep pillows should not be used, as they pose a risk of suffocation and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Babies should always be placed to sleep on a firm, flat mattress, free from pillows, soft bedding or other items.

Baby sleep pillows are sometimes marketed with claims that they can improve sleep or help prevent flat head syndrome; however, there is no evidence that they are safe for use and they can obstruct a baby’s airway or cause overheating. Childcare providers are encouraged to share the safety alert with parents and carers, please click here for further information.