CPSC Warns Against Baby Mattresses, Pads That Make Unfounded Claims About Reducing SIDS

March 16, 2000Release #00-079 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908 CPSC Warns Against Baby Mattresses, Pads That Make Unfounded Claims About Reducing SIDS WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers that certain baby mattresses and mattress pads encourage the potentially deadly practice of placing babies to sleep on their stomachs, and claim that the products reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Despite the claims, CPSC is not aware of any evidence that proves that babies can safely be placed to sleep on their stomachs on these products, or that using the products will reduce the risk of SIDS. Parents and caregivers should never put babies to sleep on their stomachs, whether on these products or any others. The following products make the claims through their advertising and marketing, including their instructions and packaging. Due to the efforts of CPSC, these firms have stopped manufacturing and distributing the products. CPSC also has requested that retailers stop sale and remove the products from store shelves immediately. Product Manufacturer/ImporterEstimated Quantity SoldDescription Baby Air (Breathable Mattress)Kid SafeVan Nuys, Calif. 5,000 A wood frame covered by mesh fabric.Used in place of or on top of mattress. Breathe Easy Vented Infant Sleeping SurfaceU.S. Family ProductsWillard, Mo. 33,000 Ridged foam mattress pad with air holes. Used on top of mattress. Sleep