Can My 6-Month-Old Use Crib Bumpers?

To many parents, crib bumpers are adorable. They look pretty in the crib, and they help both parents and children to feel safe. However, the use of crib bumpers in a 6-month-old baby's crib might not necessarily the best thing for your baby. Some argue that crib bumpers shouldn't be used at 6 months old or at any other age.

Your Baby at 6 Months

At 6 months old, your baby is becoming far more mobile than ever before. She's likely able to roll over in both directions from her back and her stomach, and she's learning how to sit up unsupported. Since she's moving around so much and may come in contact with the sides of her crib, you might consider crib bumpers as a possible aid for her.

Definition of Crib Bumpers

Crib Age Safety

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Crib bumpers are padded pieces surrounded by cloth that rest on the inside of your baby's crib, just above the mattress. The bumper is actually a long piece of material that ties around the slats of your baby's crib. Crib bumpers are somewhat controversial, and they have their fair share of supporters and detractors.

Benefits of Crib Bumpers

The biggest benefit of crib bumpers is that they keep your baby safe while he moves around his crib. Bumpers cushion your baby if he accidentally rolls into the side of the crib, and they can also keep him from getting body parts stuck between the slats of the crib. These are major concerns when your baby is 6 months old. Many parents also like the cosmetic appearance of crib bumpers, particularly in conjunction with a bedding set.

Criticisms of Crib Bumpers

Crib Slat Safety

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Some experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, believe that crib bumpers should not be used simply because they aren't safe 1. Bumpers pose a threat of suffocation, which is caused by a child getting her head caught under the bumper, leaving her helpless to escape. Also, the website Stop SIDS Now states that the use of bumper pads around the entire crib decreases ventilation inside, which creates an unsafe situation for the baby.

When to Remove Crib Bumpers

The use, and subsequent removal, of crib bumpers is solely up to you. If you feel crib bumpers are safe, they can be used when your baby is 6 months old and beyond. However, when he's able to pull himself up to stand, the bumpers must be removed, as he can use the bumper as an aid in trying to climb out of the crib. This usually does not occur until your baby is at least 8 months old, according to BabyCenter.com.