Many parents and parents-to-be have heard wonderful stories about the nurturing and comforting environment a baby hammock provides. However, we are accustomed to babies sleeping in cots and bassinets - is a hammock really safe?

In February 2010 the NSW Product Safety Committee commissioned a inquiry into the safety of baby hammocks and whether their sale/use should be banned or have restrictions placed upon it. It came after two baby deaths in hammocks in USA during 2009. Both the fatalities were marred by the improper use of the hammock. The manufacturers of Amby Baby Hammocks welcomed the inquiry and co-operated fully. I also was asked to provide an account of my experience in using and supplying hammocks and a list of ways to encourage safe use of hammocks. My report contained many suggestions which were incorporated into the findings. The inquiry provided an independent forum to have the hammocks use discussed and sought expert testimony from manufacturers and medical professionals.

The Committee released its findings in August 2010 and the media release can be read in full at

http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/About_us/News_and_events/Media_releases/2010_media_releases/20100811_calls_for_sleeping_device_standards_for_baby_hammock.html

Key elements of the statement include:

  • children who are old enough to roll should not be placed in hammocks
  • nothing else should be placed in the hammock with baby (such as teddys, toys)
  • hammocks do offer theraputic benefits
  • the sale and use of hammocks not be restricted or banned due to the theraputic benefits they provide

With any sleeping environment safety is paramount. Babies should never be placed on their side or stomach in the hammock.  Gro-bags/sleeping bags can be great as babies can’t get them over their faces as they snuggle, stretch and move. I also have used an infant support bolster from birth - 8 weeks to provide a secure and snug positioning in the hammock. These can be purchased from stores such as Kmart, Big W and Target as well as baby stores and cost around $20.

It is imperative that you read and comply with the safety instructions and information provided with the hammock, and other products used, and assemble as directed. We will hang the hammock on the frame but you will need to assemble the frame at home. It is very easy and instructions are provided. If you need to change the incline of the hammock directions are provided and please comply with these to ensure a safe assembly.

Once your baby is rolling (usually from 4 months onwards) Amby Baby advises to remove the hammock mattress to prevent rolling in the hammock. As this changes the sleeping environment for baby it is a good time to consider transitioning to a cot. In my personal opinion, I believe the hammocks are wonderful for the first 4-6 months, and then babies should move to a cot. The hammock, if used correctly, is advertised by Amby Baby as safe until 12 months of age, but I would not consider using it for this long myself, and feel it increases the difficulty in transitioning to a cot at an age where babies can be very determined and stubborn! The NSW Product Safety Committee also feel babies who are rolling SHOULD NOT be using hammocks.

The Amby Baby Hammock is advertised as having a fabulous safety record and I have used it personally for my two children, and will be using it again for number 3, due mid 2010.

In summary, please consider:

  • Babies need to be placed on their backs to sleep at all times
  • Assemble the hammock according to the instructions provided
  • Gro-bags/sleeping bags offer peace of mind in that they reduce the chance of covering babies face
  • Infant support bolster offer newborns stability in positioning
  • If you adjust the incline of the hammock please follow instructions provided
  • When rocking the hammock rock vertically
  • Once baby is rolling please pack the hammock away and contact me for return
  • On pick up of the hammock I provide a list of terms and conditions, which state the hammock is to be used for the purposes it is designed for and instructions from the manufacturer must be complied with. Heavenly Hammock Hire offers no liability for any personal injury to the hiree or third parties.

Please note that I am not a client health expert, users of the Amby Baby Hammock should familiarise themselves with the product, its correct use and related risks.