The many products that help and protect your new baby are a considerable investment in time, money, and, potentially, your sanity. Some products may seem necessary to your baby’s life but others can cause more harm than good. It can be hard to tell which products are safe for your baby, so it is essential to learn what to avoid:

1. Crib tents

If the crib tent has a frame that surrounds all sides of the mattress, it can cut off the baby’s circulation and cause them to become overheated or, even worse, get stuck in the bed. Also, babies can suffocate if they flip upside down when sleeping. All portable cribs should have warnings on them to prevent these accidents. Going without a crib tent and having a mattress on the floor is always better. The AAP recommends parents to avoid using all crib accessories, saying that products like crib tents pose an unnecessary safety risk in an unsupervised sleeping environment. Instead, once the baby can sit up independently, lower the mattress to the lowest possible setting or ditch the crib completely and simply place the baby’s mattress on the floor.

2. Memory foam baby mattresses or mattress toppers

If you want to upgrade a mattress for your baby, you will want to look for something made of natural materials and no heat or flame materials. These are the safest options. There have been many recalls of memory foam baby mattresses and cribs because of toxic gas build-up in the bed. It is not worth taking a chance with these products, even if it looks like a safe product since so many have been recalled lately.

3. Baby cribs made from manufactured wood

It is best to avoid cribs made from manufactured wood products. It can include particleboard, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), compressed fiberboard, and hardwood plywood. These types of hardwoods can contain formaldehyde and asbestos, both known carcinogens. Choosing a crib made from solid wood or non-wood material is best.

4. Infant walkers

Infant walkers are a great way to help your baby learn to walk. However, they can be hazardous to them if misused. They have been known to tip over, leaving babies unsupervised and able to fall from heights. Avoid these products and opt for stationary walkers. Working with your baby one step at a time is always better, and they will be safer walking around. It is also best to work with them in an area they are familiar with, such as their nursery or playroom.

5. Baby soaps containing phthalates

Many baby soaps contain phthalates, a plastic chemical that is not considered safe to use around young children or babies. It has been found to cause harm to a child’s reproductive organs and could interfere with testicular function. These types of soaps can be hazardous because they could cause burns when used on your baby’s skin. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, and they can interfere with your baby’s growth, especially during the first few months of their life. Keeping your baby safe and protected is way too important, so it is best to avoid baby products with phthalates.

As you can see, there are a lot of products on the market that were deemed unsafe for your baby. Some items are considered slightly hazardous. To minimize harmful ingredients, follow all product directions and remember that children’s bodies react differently to medications. There is no need to rush out to replace every item you own. When choosing any new product for your baby, read the license application and check with a doctor before buying any new accessories or products not explicitly labeled as safe for babies.