If you're planning to buy a baby chair for your infant, choose carefully. Bouncer seats, exersaucers, baby swings, play pens and high chairs all carry potential risks.
The Consumer Products Safety Commission has issued a voluntary recall of the Bumbo "Baby Sitter" Baby Seat. This foam chair for babies not yet able to sit upright has injured 28 infants across the country. Because babies tend to arch their backs, they may flip out of the seat, causing serious head trauma.
Any device your baby sits or stands in carries a potential risk. Tips on what to look out for when buying these baby products:
- Exercise saucers or stationery play centers Don’t use an exercise saucer until your baby is able to sit up with support. It has a saucer-type bottom and allows the infant to stay in one place while rocking back and forth. Be sure to lock the device in place. Toys are usually attached to the saucer within baby’s grasp. Make sure the toys are secure and cannot dislodge.
- Bouncer seats These are great for helping infants develop leg muscles. Just make sure your baby doesn’t bounce out! Always secure your child in the safety harness. Never use the toy bar as a handle and pay close attention to the weight restrictions. Even if your baby is over by one pound, stop using the device.
- Baby swings You have a choice between battery-operated or wind-up models. Be sure you check the legs for sturdiness. Take the swing out of the box before you purchase to make sure the parts fit together easily and the harness will secure your baby safely. Pay attention to weight and height restrictions, and do not use if your baby does not meet these requirements. Choose a swing with a wide base to prevent tipping.
- High chairs Never use a high chair without a safety belt around your baby’s waist and between her legs. Make sure the tray locks into place securely and that there are no loose parts. Check the screws in the legs regularly to make sure they are tight and the legs are not wobbly. Choose a model that has a wide, stable base. And check the safety straps often to be sure they are not loose or frayed.
- Play pens Check for objects around the play pen that babies could possible grab and propel themselves out of the pen. Don’t keep any toys in the play pen that contain small or sharp objects that your baby could swallow. The Consumer Products Safety Commission has issued the following warning: "Never leave an infant in a play pen with the sides down. Infant may roll into space between mattress and loose mesh side, causing suffocation."
Most importantly, never place any of these products on an elevated surface and don’t leave your baby unattended. These products are not babysitters and shouldn’t replace the time you could use to interact with your child.
Related Articles:
Should you buy extended warranties on baby products?
Baby food is very popular among coupon traders.
Choose the right baby stroller.
Source: Consumer Products Safety Commission
