Update October 31, 2019 – The CPSC announced that a new study confirms babies should sleep on recommended firm, flat surfaces.
The CPSC has so far received 1,108 incident reports related to inclined sleeping products that occurred between January 2005 and June 2019. Unfortunately this number includes 73 infant deaths.
The agency hired a mechanical engineer who specializes in biomechanics as an independent expert to conduct the study. Erin Mannen, Ph.D works in this area at the Medical Sciences division of the University of Arkansas.
Dr. Mannen conducted infant testing in order to evaluate the design of inclined sleeping products. They performed the study by measuring muscle movements and oxygen saturation with infants who were placed in a variety of products and positions; flat crib, inclined crib, and several other inclined sleep products.
None of the inclined products tested safe for infant sleep. The report concludes that products with inclines of 10 degrees or less, that are on flat and rigid surfaces, are most likely the safest for infant sleep. Additionally, plush-like sleeping surfaces pose a danger to infants.
Original article posted: August 1, 2019 – Around 24,000 Disney and Eddie Bauer brand inclined baby sleepers were voluntarily recalled from the market due to a concerning trend in infant deaths, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Dorel Juvenile Group is the maker of the Eddie Bauer Slumber and Soothe Bassinet (model number BT055CSY), as well as the Disney Baby Doze Bassinet (model number BT071DHS). There have been no injuries yet with the sleepers, but the company is taking necessary precautions.
Inclined sleepers have been the source of controversy, as they have been linked to causing babies to roll over and suffocate. That’s because babies aren’t supposed to sleep at an angle, of any kind, despite marketing efforts by companies.
Eddie Bauer Slumber and Sooth Rock Bassinet
Earlier this year, Fisher-Price recalled nearly five million of its Rock ‘n Play inclined sleepers and later, an inclined accessory. Shortly after, Kids II recalled its inclined Rocking Sleepers. Additionally, a head and neck support system by Boppy was recalled due to overstuffing, which poses a suffocation hazard.
Recently Chicco was named in a lawsuit for the death of a 3-month-old boy who was resting in the angled sleeping accessory for its Lullaby Dream Playard, though no recall has been stated.
There have been a total of 50 infant deaths associated with angled sleepers and our law firm is actively seeking new cases pertaining to this issue.
Disney Baby Doze and Dream Bassinet
The American Academy of Pediatrics, along with many other infant and juvenile groups and organizations, recommend babies sleep on their backs, on a firm surface with no restraints, and without any beddings, bumpers, or blankets they could roll onto.
The recalled units of the Disney and Bauer sleepers were sold for approximately $60 at stores such as Kmart, Target, Ross, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and other stores. They were manufactured from November 2014 to February 2017.
If you’re concerned you own one of these angled sleepers, you can check for the above listed model numbers underneath the fabric of the sleeper pad.
Bereavement Help
Infant death is a terribly traumatizing experience for anyone to go through. We understand the sensitivity of this matter and urge you to take action immediately and at your own pace.
If you have recently lost a baby, we urge you to seek emotional support and help through whatever means is appropriate to your personal beliefs. There are many online support groups available specifically for parents and family members who have experienced SIDS or SUID loss. One such group is called First Candle.
Here is a direct link to a free brochure they published titled, “Surviving the Death of a Baby — Grief Resources From First Candle”.
Questions About a Baby Sleeper Lawsuit? Contact a Johnson//Becker Lawyer for a Free Case Review.
If you or someone you know experienced the injury or unfortunate death of your child from the Eddie Bauer or Disney model sleeper, or any inclined sleeping model, our law firm is here to assist you through this time.
By filing a Baby Sleeper Lawsuit, we can hold the manufacturer accountable for producing a dangerous product.
We offer a Free Case Evaluation. Please contact us using the form below or by calling us at (800) 279-6386.
We would be honored to speak with you and respond promptly to every inquiry we receive.
Free Case Evaluation
To contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: (800) 279-6386.