Boppy Newborn Lounger

The Boppy Newborn Lounger, a product by the Boppy Company, is a pillow-like infant lounger designed for babies to sit at a slight angle. However, if used incorrectly, these loungers can lead to suffocation. 

In 2021, following eight infant deaths due to suffocation, the Boppy Company recalled more than three million of these loungers.

How to Use Boppy Newborn Lounger Safely

Boppy Newborn Loungers are often used by parents as a comfortable place to lay their infants when they need a break or their hands are occupied. These loungers provide a place for babies to interact with toys and caregivers while awake.

Boppy Newborn Loungers are designed with raised edges and a central indent for the baby to rest. The elevated edges help position the baby at a slight angle, rather than lying completely flat.

However, the Boppy Co emphasizes that these loungers are not meant for infant sleep. If the baby dozes off in the lounger, it’s important to transition them to a safe sleep surface that’s firm and flat. Avoid using the lounger in cribs, play pens, bassinets, or play yards.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also advises maintaining a clear sleeping area for your baby. This means keeping the crib free from pillows, padded crib bumpers, plush toys, blankets and other items that could pose a risk of suffocation. 

Boppy Recall

In September 2021, the Boppy Co issued a recall for approximately 3.3 million Boppy Newborn Loungers after reports of eight infant deaths due to suffocation. Most of these recalled loungers were sold in the U.S., with around 35,000 distributed in Canada.

The Consumer Products Safety Commission warns that suffocation can occur if infants roll, move, or are positioned on the lounger in a way that blocks their airway. The risk also arises if they roll off the lounger onto an external object, like a nearby adult pillow or soft bedding that impedes their breathing.

The Boppy Recall includes: 

• Boppy Original Newborn Lounger
• Boppy Preferred Newborn Lounger
• Pottery Barn Kids Boppy Newborn Lounger

These loungers were bought between January 2004 and September 2021 from various online and nationwide retailers, including Amazon, Target, Pottery Barn Kids, and Walmart. The refund process is expected to take six to eight weeks.

Following the recall, parents of children who suffered injuries or lost their lives due to the recalled lounger started filing lawsuits against the Boppy Company.

Why Was the Boppy Lounger Recalled? 

Boppy Loungers and Boppy Pillows pose a significant risk of suffocation, also known as positional asphyxia. This can happen if a baby’s head falls forward or back, or if they shift into a position that blocks their airway while on the lounger or pillow. These risks are not unique to the Boppy products; it’s also present in many baby products, including car seats, which the AAP recommends should only be used for travel, not for feeding or sleeping.

The CPSC warns that nursing pillows and loungers,, like the Boppy Lounger or Boppy Pillow, are not safe for infant sleep. Tragically, there have been instances of infant death due to suffocation while using these items.

The CPSC’s investigations into infant death linked to pillow products reveal that these unfortunate events often occur when infants are left unattended, fall asleep, or roll over while lying on the nursing pillows and loungers. Parents and caregivers are advised against propping infants too high while using Boppy Pillows or allowing them to lie in the center of the pillow.

According to the Boppy Company, at least 8  infant deaths due to suffocation have been connected to the Boppy Newborn Lounger.

Boppy Newborn Lounger vs Boppy Nursing Pillow

The Boppy Newborn Lounger and the Boppy Nursing Pillow, both products from the Boppy Company, are designed for different purposes. The Newborn Lounger, with a gentler slope, is meant to cradle awake infants as they sit or rest.

On the other hand, the Boppy Nursing Pillow, shaped like a ‘C’, is designed to support babies during nursing or bottle-feeding. It’s also useful for tummy time and seated activities.

Just like the Boppy Newborn Lounger, it’s important that parents and caregivers never let infants sleep on Boppy Nursing Pillows or Boppy Pillows. These products are not meant for safe sleep practices.

What Should I Do if I Have a Recalled Newborn Lounger? 

If you have a recalled Boppy Newborn Lounger, stop using the dangerous product and contact the Boppy Company at 800-416-1355 or visit their website at boppy.com to get a refund. 

When you get in touch with the Boppy Co, you will need to have the item number or UPC and date code ready. You can locate the item number/UPC on the front of the product’s care label, while the date code is printed on the second label.

If you own a Boppy Nursing Pillow or other newborn lounger, always adhere to the recommended guidelines for infant sleep. This includes ensuring your baby does not sleep on the lounger or pillow. 

It’s crucial to create a safe sleeping space and babyproof your home to ensure your baby’s safety.

References