Every parent has faced the dilemma of waking a sleeping baby after a car ride. It’s tempting to simply carry the car seat inside while your little one continues to snooze. However, recent findings published in the journal Pediatrics indicate that this common practice should be abandoned immediately.
A comprehensive 10-year study analyzed sleep-related incidents involving 11,779 infants and revealed that 3% of these deaths occurred while babies were in “sitting devices,” which encompasses car seats, swings, and strollers. Alarmingly, 64% of these fatalities involved infants in car seats, with the average age being just two months. Furthermore, 90% of the deaths linked to car seats were due to improper use, namely the babies being in the seats when they weren’t actually traveling in a vehicle. The study’s authors emphasize that car seats are designed solely for transportation, not as alternatives for cribs or bassinets.
Dr. Mark Anderson, the lead researcher, explained to TODAY, “It became evident that the fatalities associated with car seats stemmed from their misuse. They should never replace a crib or bassinet for sleeping. It’s crucial for parents to understand this distinction.”
The reasons behind sudden infant deaths during sleep remain unclear, but it is believed that the inclined positioning of babies in car seats could contribute to their risk. This is not the first time research has underscored the dangers of sleeping in car seats; a previous 2015 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics highlighted similar concerns regarding asphyxiation risks. Tragically, a mother shared her own experience of losing her child due to this very issue shortly after that report was released.
However, Dr. Anderson reassured parents that car seats are indeed safe for infants while traveling, stating, “The car seat is the safest place for your baby during a car ride, regardless of whether they are awake or asleep. Just remember, once you’re out of the car, if your baby is still sleeping, the safest option is to transfer them to a crib or bassinet.”
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In summary, while it might be tempting to let your baby sleep in their car seat after a trip, it is essential to prioritize their safety by transferring them to a safe sleeping environment like a crib or bassinet. Awareness of the risks associated with improper use of car seats can help prevent tragic outcomes.