The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned against the use of weighted sleep products for babies. These products typically include items like weighted blankets or sleep sacks designed to provide gentle pressure to a baby while they sleep. The concerns surrounding these products are primarily related to safety and the potential risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or other sleep-related dangers.
Sleep expert and Pediatrician Dr. Nilong Vyas says that:
“Many parents resort to using a weighted blanket or sleep sack as a last resort to help their children sleep through the night. The utilization of weighted sleep sacks for infants is contraindicated due to the indeterminate nature of when infants begin to roll over and their need to have unrestricted freedom of movement when physiologically ready. Additionally, a lack of evidence exists to support the safety of weighted sleep sacks for infants, and thus do not advocate the application of weighted sleep sacks for children of any age.
Weighed products have become quite popular, and although they can be beneficial in decreasing anxiety and providing a sense of calm, caution should be used when determining their place in a child’s bed. For example, a weighted blanket can be used when cuddling with a child over two years, before bedtime, and during book time; however, using it for sleep should be discouraged. Similarly, a weighted stuffed animal can be used when a child has a minor injury or hurt feelings to offer comfort and support but not as a soothing item in bed. Any stuffed animal or blanket should not be placed in a crib or bassinet of any child one year or less. No weighted products should be used for children under 3.”
