Infant slings linked to 3 deaths; 1 million recalled

Mar 26, 2010 by Andrew

More than 1 million baby slings made by Infantino were recalled Wednesday after claims linked them to three infant deaths.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said babies could suffocate in the soft fabric slings. The agency urged parents to immediately stop using the slings for babies younger than 4 months.

The recall involves 1 million Infantino “SlingRider” and “Wendy Bellissimo” slings in the United. States as well as 15,000 in Canada.

Infantino President Jack Vresics said the company was working closely with the safety
commission.

“Our top priority is the safety of infants whose parents and caregivers use our products,” Vresics said. The company will offer a free replacement baby carrier, activity gym or shopping cart cover to any affected consumer, Vresics said. Consumers can call Infantino at 866-860-1361.

The slings wrap around the chest so on-the-go parents can carry their babies or just stay close as they bond with their infants.

Earlier this month, the safety commission issued a broad warning about sling-style baby carriers, saying they pose a potential suffocation risk to infants, especially to babies younger than 4 months or who had a low birth weight, were born prematurely or had breathing problems such as colds.

At the time, the commission didn’t single out a specific sling or manufacturer. The agency said it had identified or was investigating at least 14 deaths in the past 20 years associated with baby slings.

Wednesday’s announcement said three of the deaths occurred last year and were linked to Infantino slings.

Experts say slings that keep a newborn baby solidly against the carrier’s body, in an upright position, are safe.

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