Deaths lead to recall of baby slings

March 25, 2010 at 12:00a.m.

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

More than 1 million baby slings made by Infantino were recalled Wednesday after claims linking them to three infant deaths.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said babies could suffocate in the soft fabric slings. The agency urged parents to stop using the slings immediately for babies under 4 months.

The recall involves 1 million Infantino “SlingRider” and “Wendy Bellissimo” slings in the United States and 15,000 in Canada.

Infantino President Jack Vresics said the company has been working closely with the commission on its sling concerns.

“Our top priority is the safety of infants whose parents and caregivers use our products,” Vresics said in a statement. He said the company would offer a free replacement baby carrier, activity gym or shopping cart cover to any affected consumer.

The slings wrap around the chest so on-the-go parents can carry their babies or just stay close as they bond with their infants.

Earlier this month, CPSC issued a broad warning about sling-style baby carriers, saying they pose a potential suffocation risk to infants, especially babies under 4 months. Babies who had a low birthweight, were born prematurely or had breathing problems such as colds also were at risk.

At the time, the commission did not single out a specific type of sling or manufacturer. It said it had identified or was investigating at least 14 deaths in the last 20 years associated with slings.

In Wednesday’s announcement, CPSC said three of the deaths occurred last year and were linked to Infantino slings.