Crib bumpers have been a staple in baby nurseries for generations. However, recent safety concerns have led parents to consider alternative options that provide the same level of protection without posing a hazard to their little ones. From 1990 to 2016, crib bumpers were associated with 107 deaths and 282 nonfatal incidents related to suffocation, strangulation, and entrapment (1).
With a wide range of options available, it can be difficult to know what to choose. In this article, we will explore some of the best crib bumper alternatives that offer a safer and more comfortable sleeping environment for your baby.
From breathable mesh liners to portable bed rails, we will cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision. So, if you’re looking for a safer way to keep your baby protected while they sleep, read on to discover the best crib bumper alternatives available today.
Our Top Picks
- Best Mesh Crib Liner: BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh Crib Liner
- Disney Mesh Crib Liner: Disney Secure-Me Crib Liner
- Baby Sleeping Bag: Woolino Baby Sleeping Bag
- Crib Tent: Crib Tent by Pro Baby Safety
- Crib Rail Cover: BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh RailGuard Teething Cover
- Bassinet: Dream On Me Karley Bassinet
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best Crib Bumper Alternatives Picks
BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh Crib Liner – Best Mesh Crib Liner
- Easy to install
- Great airflow
- The bumper has a soft trim around the top and bottom
- The outer side provides long ties so you can secure them to the crib slats
- Tends to slide down
Far too often, babies get their limbs caught between the slats of their cribs, causing discomfort, fear, and stress. To alleviate this issue, BreathableBaby developed a solution that was both effective and safe.
Unlike cushioned bumpers, this mesh liner does not impede ventilation, making it a much safer alternative. Additionally, the liner is constructed from a single layer of Classic Mesh that is 3mm thick and features A.C.T. Air Channel Technology, which keeps the sides taut and prevents any gaps. With an impressive light-blocking rating of over 85%, this product offers both safety and convenience.
Made entirely from polyester mesh, it is free of any embellishments or decorations that could irritate a baby’s delicate skin. This makes it a safe and practical choice if you want to ensure the comfort and safety of your baby.
Disney Secure-Me Crib Liner – Disney Mesh Crib Liner
- Pretty breathable
- Very cute child-friendly design
- Easy to adjust if needed
- Fits most standard and convertible-sized cribs
- You have to pull and tighten it to make sure it’s tight against the crib
This four-piece Secure-Me Crib Liner protects your baby’s arms and legs getting caught in the slats of their crib. The breathable mesh design also helps regulate temperature, keeping your little one cool and comfortable even during hot weather.
Installation is easy and hassle-free, and the liner is compatible with most regular and convertible cribs. The liner includes two long and two short side segments and is adorned with an attractive white plaid design on an aqua background.
Made from 100% polyester microfiber, this liner is both soft and durable. Its mesh design also helps prevent small items like pacifiers from slipping through the slats and getting lost.
Woolino Baby Sleeping Bag – Baby Sleeping Bag
- Very soft and comfortable
- All-natural
- Seems to help keep little ones warm
- Don’t feel anxious about your little one being too hot or cold
- Can only be air dried
Made from premium-quality super-fine Australian merino wool, this sleeping bag is 100% natural and offers exceptional breathability and temperature regulation for your little one.
The sleeping bag features a side zipper with a two-way opening, making it easy for you to change your baby’s clothing or diaper. It also has zipper-pull protectors to protect your child from accidentally nibbling on the zipper pull.
Additionally, the sleeping bag comes with a baby thermometer and dressing instructions, providing you with the information you need.
Crib Tent by Pro Baby Safety – Crib Tent
- Super easy to install
- Zipper seems sturdy
- Made out of a mesh material
- Pretty durable
- Hard to see through the material through a baby monitor unless they are standing close to the sides of the crib
This crib tent offers unparalleled protection against your baby’s falls, crawling out, and other potential mishaps.
The safety net also provides you with a clear view of your child through a top aperture that you can mount a baby monitor or camera on. This gives you the ability to keep an eye on your baby and know that they’re safe and secure. It features a wide hole in the rear for easy mattress and bed cover changes, as well as a smaller opening in the front, which makes it easy to slip your baby in and out.
The safety net is hypoallergenic and BPA-free, ensuring that it’s safe for your baby to come into contact with. Plus, the netting used is satin-based and is strong, flexible, and silky smooth to the touch, ensuring that your baby won’t be rubbed against anything or get tangled.
BreathableBaby Breathable Mesh RailGuard Teething Cover – Crib Rail Cover
- Good mesh material
- Great for teething babies
- Fits most cribs
- Soft
- Hold by a Velcro
This crib rail cover is a must-have if you want to ensure that your baby is safe and protected while sleeping. It’s designed to safeguard your little one from cracks, splinters, and peeling, providing you with added peace of mind.
The cover is versatile and fits the majority of broad and narrow crib rails. It consists of one long panel that measures 18×51 inches, and for extra coverage, it can be combined with two short side panels. The crib rail cover also comes with a convenient front pocket that is perfect for keeping your baby’s pacifier within easy reach.
This cover is securely fastened to the crib rail and slats, ensuring that it stays in place. The hook and loop and tie fasteners make it easy to attach and provide a tight fit. The one-size-fits-all design ensures that it can be used on any crib. Plus, the adjustable fit and hook and loop closure make it simple to install, so you can get your baby’s crib set up in no time.
Dream On Me Karley Bassinet – Bassinet
- Ability to close up overtop of the bassinet
- It is very difficult to push over
- The frame is sturdy and seems well made
- Holds up to 25 lbs
- The mattress pad given is so thin
Weighing in at just 12.4 pounds, this bassinet features a no-tool construction and lightweight aluminum frame, making it quick and simple to set up and take down.
It includes a quick-folding mechanism that makes it easy to take it outside or move it from room to room with ease. And the adjustable double canopy provides added protection from flies ensuring that your baby will always be comfortable and protected.
Plus, the spacious storage bag that is attached to the Karley Bassinet makes it easy to keep all of your baby’s essentials close at hand. With nine lovely finishes to choose from, the Karley Bassinet can easily match any nursery decor.
What Is A Crib Bumper Used For?
A crib bumper is a cushion that lines the inside of a baby’s crib to protect them from hitting their head or limbs on the hard crib slats. It is typically made of soft material, such as foam or fabric, and is designed to provide a cushioning layer between the baby and the hard crib walls. The idea behind using a crib bumper is to provide a safer and more comfortable sleeping environment for the baby.
However, over the years, concerns have been raised about the safety of crib bumpers, as they can pose a suffocation hazard if a baby becomes entangled in the material or if the bumper blocks their airway. As a result, many parents are now turning to alternative options to provide a safer sleeping environment for their babies.
Are There Any Safe Crib Bumpers?
In May 2022, the Safe Sleep for Babies Act was signed into law, banning cushioned crib bumpers from being produced and sold (2). Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against using any type of crib bumper due to the risk of suffocation and entrapment for infants (3). Instead, it’s recommended to provide a safe sleep environment for babies by using a firm, flat, and well-fitted crib mattress with a tight-fitting crib sheet (4). Soft objects, loose bedding, or toys should not be present in the crib with the baby to prevent any risks.
Are Braided Bumpers Safe For Babies?
Braided crib bumpers are not considered safe for babies as they pose a suffocation hazard and increase the risk of entrapment.
How Do I Stop My Baby From Hitting His Head In The Crib?
- Make sure the mattress fits snugly in the crib and is firm to provide adequate support for your baby’s head and neck
- Do not place any soft objects, loose bedding, or toys in the crib with your baby to reduce the risk of suffocation
- Consider using a sleep sack instead of a traditional blanket to keep your baby warm and reduce the risk of entrapment (5)
- As your baby grows, adjust the height of the crib mattress to the lowest level to reduce the distance your baby needs to fall
- A crib tent can help prevent your baby from crawling out of the crib and reduce the risk of injury from hitting their head on the crib’s sides
