U.S. Senator Calls for FTC Investigation into Weighted Infant Sleep Products, Major Retailers Halt Sales

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut has urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to examine potential deceptive marketing practices by Dreamland Baby and Nested Bean, two companies producing weighted sleep products for infants. This request follows concerns over unverified safety claims opposed by child safety experts. In response, prominent retailers such as Amazon and Target have ceased selling certain weighted sleep products.

In a letter addressed to FTC Chair Lina Khan on Thursday, Senator Blumenthal highlighted the resistance of these companies to amend their extensive safety claims amidst significant expert disapproval. He stressed the urgency of an investigation to protect consumer welfare, emphasizing that the products should not be advertised as ‘safe’ without a definitive safety standard disclaimer.

Reaction from Companies and Retailers: Manasi Gangan, CEO of Nested Bean, attributes the retailers’ decision to stop sales to an unsupported warning from a CPSC commissioner, which she claims was based on flawed data. She defended her company’s safety record, noting no recalls and a strong customer base over 13 years.

Conversely, Dreamland Baby has not issued a response to inquiries.

Retail giants Amazon, Target, and Babylist have already taken steps to discontinue sales. Amazon announced that it would remove listings that reference infants or use terms suggesting improved sleep due to the product’s weight. This measure reflects a commitment to safety, informed by ongoing industry evaluations.

Safety Concerns Highlighted by Experts: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against using weighted sleep aids like blankets and swaddles for infants, citing potential risks such as suffocation and inhibited movement which could prevent babies from waking up during distress. Dr. Rachel Moon, a leading pediatric expert, explains that these items could pose serious risks by making it difficult for babies to change positions or breathe if the products shift.

As retailers and manufacturers navigate these concerns, the industry continues to scrutinize and adjust the products offered to ensure compliance with safety guidelines and expert recommendations.