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The reason why you shouldn’t use a DockATot in a crib is that babies run the risk of possible suffocation.
The DockATot quickly gained popularity amongst new parents and it became a must-have in baby registries.
However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) received multiple reports of infant deaths associated with the DockATot Deluxe+.
But why is the DockATot not safe?
I wanted to find out and did a lot of research to understand why you should stop using the DockATot immediately.
The DockATot is a popular baby lounger that is designed to provide a cozy and secure resting environment for infants.
It features a soft, cushioned design that can help soothe and comfort newborns. It has gained a significant following among parents who appreciate its convenience and perceived benefits for infant sleep and comfort.
But many parents have used the DockATot incorrectly by placing it in a crib or bassinet, which goes against the CPSC and AAP safety guidelines.
The DockATot has raised numerous safety concerns and should not be used for infant sleep.
When I first saw the DockATot, I thought it would be a great and convenient way to let my baby sleep while I did some chores around the house.
After learning about its dangers, I said, “No, there is no way I am putting my baby at risk.”
Despite its popularity, the DockATot has been linked to serious safety concerns.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has not approved the DockATot as a safe sleep product, and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against using products like the DockATot for infant sleep.
The CPSC received multiple reports of infants suffocating or experiencing other breathing difficulties while using the DockATot.
Parenting is tough and we can go days without getting good sleep. Trust me, I’ve been there. And that prompts us to invest in expensive products that promise a good night’s sleep.
But it is important to prioritize your infant’s safety over convenience or perceived comfort.
I know the DockATot seems like a convenient solution for providing a cozy sleeping environment for your baby, but it is not designed specifically for safe sleep and can pose significant risks.
The AAP recommends that you place your infant to sleep on their back in a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards. The DockATot should not be used in a crib.
Approved cribs and bassinets are designed to provide a safe and secure sleeping environment for infants and can help reduce the risk of suffocation or other breathing difficulties.
Co-sleeping is a debatable topic in the United States. Some say it is unsafe, some see the benefits.
We co-slept with our daughter for about four or five months before she transitioned to a floor bed. We never had an issue nor did we think about the risks of co-sleeping.
However, we did not use a DockATot to co-sleep because of the reasons mentioned before. So according to the CPSC, the DockATot is not safe for sleeping.
Well, you shouldn’t. I would follow the CPSC’s recommendation and discontinue its use.
Looking at some FAQs on DockATot’s website, they state that you should always supervise your infant in the dock since it is not designed to contain a child.
Babies can begin to crawl or scoot unexpectedly. A baby that wakes up alone may try to find you and can fall or become entrapped between adjacent objects.
Notice that they don’t mention anything about safe sleep using the DockATot. I wonder why…? Perhaps they updated their safety info.
My advice: find safer DockATot alternatives.
There are better products that are safer for your baby during awake times, playtime, or while doing tummy time. Some are also great to help develop your child’s physical and cognitive development.
It’s worth mentioning that many baby loungers or baby pillows are not meant for sleeping. They are usually made to place your baby on their backs or during tummy time.
However you use them, make sure that you always supervise your infant.
Canada has taken a strong stance on baby loungers, or as they call them baby nests and baby pods.
The DockATot is one of those products that are not being sold in Canada because of their strict regulations on sleeping products.
Canadian regulations require that baby products have characteristics including sides that are higher than those on the DockATot.
Since the DockATot does not meet those regulations, parents living in Canada cannot buy it. Maybe the United States should follow the same steps.
I’ve looked at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) website to learn more about safe practices for infant sleep.
They provide important sleep recommendations to promote the well-being and safety of your infant.
These recommendations aim to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related infant fatalities.
Here are some safe sleep guidelines according to the AAP:
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (SPSC) says that the DockATot is not safe for baby sleep due to a number of infant deaths related to the product.
I wrote an article on better and safer DockATot alternatives, so please check it out and buy a product that better aligns with your needs.
Hello, I am Leslie. I am on a mission to help you support the growth and development of your child. With the right tools and proper guidance, you can navigate parenthood with confidence and assertion! My goal is to equip you with knowledge to help you construct a strong foundation for your child’s life.
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