One reason child safety organizations recommend against crib bumpers is that they pose a risk of suffocation.3 Just like a pillow or thick blanket, crib bumper pads can restrict a baby's breathing if the crib bumper is up next to the baby's nose or mouth. Suffocation risk is greatest when babies are very young and unable to move themselves away from potential hazards.
A secondary risk with crib bumpers is strangulation. Babies can become entangled in the crib bumper or its ties, or can get between the bumper and the crib. A few crib bumpers have been recalled because of stitching or trim that can come loose. Those loose pieces could cause injury.
Often, parents do not remove the crib bumper pads once the baby can stand upO in the crib. The bumper can provide a foothold that could allow the baby to climb out of the crib and fall.
Rebreathing of stale air is another concern with crib bumper pads. The bumper reduces the flow of fresh air around the baby, particularly if their face is very close to the bumper.

