If you’ve been using a Fisher-Price Snuga Swing to soothe your little one, there’s an urgent recall you need to know about. Fisher-Price, in coordination with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), has recalled millions of Snuga Swings due to a significant suffocation risk when the product is used incorrectly, such as for sleep or with added bedding. This recall serves as a crucial reminder for all parents to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines on safe sleep practices to prevent tragic outcomes.
Why the Fisher-Price Snuga Swing was recalled
Between 2012 and 2022, there have been five reported deaths involving infants aged 1 to 3 months while using the Snuga Swing for sleep. In many of these cases, the infants were left unrestrained, and bedding materials like blankets were added to the swing, contributing to a suffocation hazard.
The headrest and body support insert of the Snuga Swing pose particular risks when used for sleep. These components, while designed for comfort during awake-time use, can obstruct an infant’s airflow, especially if the baby’s head tilts forward. As a result, Fisher-Price is urging parents to immediately remove the headrest and body support insert from the swing.
To incentivize this important safety action, Fisher-Price is offering a $25 refund to consumers who remove and destroy the headrest and body support insert. Instructions on how to do this can be found at www.service.mattel.com. After removing the parts, the swing can still be used for supervised awake-time activities, but never for sleep.
Models affected in the recall
Some of the most popular models in the Fisher-Price Snuga Swing line include:
– My Little Snugakitty™ Cradle ‘n Swing
– My Little Snugapuppy™ Cradle ‘n Swing
– My Little Snugabunny™ Cradle ‘n Swing
– Snugamonkey™ Cradle ‘n Swing
– Snugabear™ Cradle ‘n Swing
These swings feature a soothing side-to-side or front-to-back motion, 90-degree rotation, and plush fabric options, making them popular among parents. However, no matter how comfortable or safe they may appear, they are not designed for sleep, and the AAP urges parents to be aware of this critical distinction.
Why newborns are particularly vulnerable
According to the AAP, infants are especially susceptible to suffocation and breathing difficulties in inclined products like swings because their muscles and brains are still developing. Newborns have weak neck muscles and an underdeveloped ability to control their head movement. If their head slumps forward, the airway can become restricted, making it difficult for them to breathe.
Additionally, the brain’s respiratory control center is still maturing in infants, meaning they may not react as quickly to low oxygen levels or restricted airflow, which can lead to dangerous situations like suffocation. This makes the safe sleep environment—flat, firm surfaces like a crib or bassinet—essential for reducing the risk of sudden infant death.
Safe sleep guidelines from the AAP
The AAP emphasizes that the safest place for your baby to sleep is in a crib, bassinet, or play yard that has a firm, flat sleep surface. Here are a few key guidelines to follow:
- Always place your baby on their back for every sleep, including naps.
- Avoid extra bedding—no blankets, pillows, or stuffed toys should be in the sleep area.
- Swings, gliders, and other inclined products are not safe for sleep and should only be used for short, supervised periods while your baby is awake.
What you should do if you own a recalled swing
If you have one of the recalled Fisher-Price Snuga Swings, here’s what you need to do immediately:
1. Remove both the headrest and body support insert from the swing. Use scissors to cut the tether on the headrest as instructed.
2. Submit proof of destruction to Fisher-Price for a $25 refund. You can find detailed instructions at www.service.mattel.com.
3. Never use the swing for sleep—it is only intended for awake-time activities under supervision.
4. Follow AAP guidelines for safe sleep, ensuring your baby sleeps on a firm, flat surface with no extra bedding.
Protecting your baby with safe sleep choices
The recall of Fisher-Price Snuga Swings is a sobering reminder of the importance of following safe sleep practices. Products like swings may seem convenient for keeping your baby comfortable, but they are not safe for sleep. The AAP makes it clear that the safest sleep environment is one that is flat, firm, and free of extra bedding.
By taking the steps outlined in the recall and ensuring that your baby’s sleep space meets AAP recommendations, you are actively reducing the risk of suffocation and protecting your little one’s health. Safe sleep environments save lives, and every nap or bedtime is an opportunity to make sure your baby is sleeping safely.
