Can baby roll over in Snuggle Me Organic

I have a moral dilemma. My baby is 2.5 weeks, naps like a chap in her Snuggle Me Organic all through the day (supervised in the same room). I’ve been waking her every 2-2.5hrs in the hopes she sleeps better at night. She doesn’t do as well in her bassinet at night and wakes every 1-3hrs (usually more like 1-2) but even when she’s sleeping she’s grunting so loudly and just seems very uncomfortable and we hardly have slept in days with the noise. My husband thinks we should use the snuggle me in her bassinet (which would fit perfectly) for night sleep. I know soft sided sleep devices are not recommended as they could be a suffocation hazard. I personally don’t see how she could get her face into the snuggle me but at the same time I’m very nervous of having her sleep in it at night when she’d be unattended. But at the same time I’m exhausted! I have a Levana movement monitor that clips to her diaper and alarms if there is no breathing movement. What would you do? I know people have used them as sleeping devices but also that it’s not following the safe sleep rules. Sincerely exhausted mama.  

Snuggle Me Organic and DockATot baby loungerscan be a cozy little ‘nest’ for your child. Both can provide a comfortable spot for your baby to lie down. The raised sides may make your baby feel like they’re being held in your arms. (1)

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A baby nest with a snug fit may even be more helpful for a newborn baby, who’s used to the cozy environment inside the womb.

Plenty of parents are able to rest their tired arms after putting their baby on a lounger.

Why Is The DockATot Not Safe For Sleep?

While these products can be comfortable, you should never leave your baby unattended on an infant lounger, no matter which brand you pick. The lounger can potentially lead to suffocation, especially in younger babies, whether they’re awake or sleeping. (1)

Infant loungers are popular, thanks to social media and celebrity endorsements. But the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) warns parents and caregivers about the dangers of the unsupervised use of these cozy baby products. (2)(3)

These loungers were originally designed for co-sleeping so that you can get a much-needed nap with your baby tucked in by your side. But your baby may roll over their side or stomach and suffocate on the thicker sides of the lounger.

Also, at least 12 infant deaths have been attributed to in-bed sleepers or loungers because the soft surfaces and padding may increase the risk of suffocation. (3)

So, are Snuggle Me Organic and DockATot infant loungers safe and comfortable for your baby? Which one can be a better choice for your baby? Are they available in different sizes?

Learn more about these baby nests below.

Snuggle Me Organic Vs DockATot: Similarities

• Both brands offer infant loungers that may be suitable for babies and toddlers.
• Both brands released safety guidelines that prohibit using these baby loungers for co-sleeping.
• The products are designed for use during playtime or supervised rest, but you should never let your baby sleep in these loungers.
• These products may be good for putting your baby on a comfortable surface for diaper changes.
• The products are small enough to be portable, so you can bring them along while traveling.
• Both products are made of breathable, air-permeable materials.
• These products can also make nice baby shower gifts for new parents.
• Products from both brands are also machine washable.

Snuggle Me Organic Vs DockATot: Main Differences

What Makes The Snuggle Me Baby Loungers Better?

• These products are made of organic materials.
• They can be hypoallergenic.
• The center sling design moves with your baby’s weight, pulling the raised sides in for a snug fit.
• It offers a 60-day money-back, no-questions-asked guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with the product you purchased. You can only return DockATot products within 30 days of purchase.
• You can purchase puddle pads that can help keep small leaks, spills, or accidents from soaking the fiber-filled sides.
• The snug cover may be easier to remove for cleaning.
• The products don’t have buckles or straps that may cause potential safety issues, including getting tiny fingers or limbs stuck into them.

Snuggle Me Organic products also cost less than half the price of DockATot items:

• Infant loungers (0 to 8+months old): $99 for Snuggle Me Organic; $175 to $205 for DockATot
• Toddler loungers (9+ months old): $140 for Snuggle Me Organic; $275 to $310 for DockATot

What Makes The DockATot Baby Loungers Better?

• The products are certified European Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1. So, even if they aren’t organic, these items don’t contain toxic and harmful chemicals. (4)
• The products may also go through more tests than the Snuggle Me items.
• The brand offers a wide range of prints and colors for the covers. You can order extra covers in different print styles. But Snuggle Me loungers are only available in solid colors.
• The products also have a larger, padded center. So, it has more room at the center for your baby to move more freely.
• You can also unsnap the buckle at the bottom. So, this docking station can grow with your baby.
• A one-year limited warranty covers all products.
• You can also buy some accessories such as the cabana kit with a sunshade so you can use this product outdoors.
• You can also get a base protector and arch with toys.

Is DockATot Bigger Than Snuggle Me?

• DockATot Deluxe+ Dock dimensions (0-8 months): 24 x 6 x 18 inches
• Snuggle Me Organic (infant) dimensions: 30 x 4 x 18.5 inches

Continue reading about each infant lounger brand below.

Snuggle Me Organic

Price

• Snuggle Me Organic Infant Lounger (0 to 8+months old): $99
• Snuggle Me Organic Toddler Lounger (9+ months old): $140

Material

All the Snuggle Me lounger products are made using the following materials:

• Organic fabrics with GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification. This certification is given only to textile products that have a minimum of 70% organic fibers. All chemical inputs, such as dyes, shouldn’t contain any toxic or harmful chemicals. (5)
• Non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and breathable fabrics
• Virgin polyester fiberfill that doesn’t have added chemicals or flame retardants

Safety

For your baby’s safety, only use the products for their intended age range:

• Infant loungers are for babies 0-9 months old.
• Toddler loungers are designed for babies over nine months old if they measure 21” from the top of their heads to the base of their bums.

Snuggle Me claims to be the inventors of the original baby lounger and the leader in safety for this product category.

The brand claims that no infant injuries or safety incidents concerning their products have been reported to the CPSC (US Consumer Product Safety Commission), Health Canada, or their hotline.

Snuggle Me recommends using the loungers only during supervised lounging, sitting support, or tummy time as a safety precaution.

The brand also warns that you should never use any baby lounger as your child’s sleeping device. (6)

In cleaning, don’t use harsh soap or bleach when putting these products in the washing machine for added safety.

If possible, wash only in cold water using mild detergent. Air drying is recommended because heat can shrink the cotton materials.

Key Features

• The Snuggle Me Organic loungers use organic cotton and polyester fill which can help improve breathability and temperature regulation.
• The lounger has a center sling design that curves around your baby’s back. The raised sides are pulled in towards your baby, simulating a cuddling sensation. It can make your baby feel as if they’re held in your arms, which can have a calming effect on your child.
• These products are fully machine washable.
• They’re sustainable and ethically made from organic materials.
• You can replace the cotton cover. It can be a good idea to have two covers so you can use one while you’re washing the other.
• Organic puddle pads can help with small leaks, spills, and accidents. They’re made of breathable fabrics that are also machine washable.
• The brand offers a 60-day money-back guarantee for loungers purchased from their store. It promises a full refund (minus shipping charges), with no questions asked.
• The products are made in the USA.
• It features an easy-to-remove snug cover.
• All the products are fully enclosed and don’t have buckets or straps to keep your baby in place. This kind of design eliminates possible safety issues with broken or faulty straps that might injure your kid.

Recall

• None

Accessories

You can also use the following accessories with your infant lounger:

• Puddle pads (elastic fitted moisture barrier)
• Cotton covers
• Swaddle blankets
• Feeding support pillows

Pros & Cons

Pros

• These products are more affordable than DockATot but are made of organic materials.
• The loungers have a special center sling design that mimics cuddling to tuck your baby in.
• It hasn’t been linked to any consumer safety issues.

Cons

• It may be more difficult to clean because you can’t put the pillow section in the dryer.

What Customers Say

Positive Reviews

“I think every baby should have a snuggle me. Comes with a carrying case (not the best) but works well and gets the job done. I take it to family gatherings so that the baby isn’t in the car seat or in arms the whole time.” – Reviewer on Target.

“I cannot stress how much I love this bassinet. It’s kind of like a baby hammock, when they lay in the middle the sides kind of fold in to literally snuggle the baby. 10/10, RECOMMEND FOR NEW MOMS!!!!” – Reviewer on Amazon.

“We bought this because it was cheaper than other sleepers. So far it has worked for our baby. We use it in our halo and fits perfectly. We didn’t purchase the covers. But I recommend buying pads or a cover. Baby soiled a few times and it seeps through, but it slightly easy to clean.” – Reviewer on Amazon.

Negative Reviews

“Super dissapointed in this product. After owning the boppy lounger for newborns, I thought to invest in the snuggle me lounger for naps in the bassinet. I qas so excited for my baby to try thisnout. As soon as I took it out of the box, right back in it went. The middle piece of fabric is not comfortable. Its just that– a thin layer of fabric. It provides zero cushion, support or comfort. The pillow walls are too tall to use for newborns that do not roll on their own yet and present dangers of suffocation.” – Reviewer on Amazon.

“My son used this when he was a fee weeks old and only enjoyed for about 2 weeks. It’s literally a piece of cloth with cushion all around. I do not recommend this for the price. Better off with the boppy newborn lounger.” – Reviewer on Amazon.

“Its just a piece of cotton sponge on 2 sides. No support on the bottom. Very Expensive, No cover is also given. I still wonder how people liked it so much. Its as expensive as a crib. Totally Worthless. It’s worth just 10$. The baby also moves his head to side and it can suffocate the baby.” – Reviewer on Target.

DockATot

Price

• DockATot Deluxe+ Dock (0 to 8+months old): $175 to $205
• DockATot Grand Dock (9 to 36+ months old): $275 to $310

Material

• 100% cotton cover
• Polyester fiberfill

Safety

It’s also ideal to use the product intended for their age range:

• Infant loungers for babies up to 9 months old
• Toddler loungers for kids starting from 9 months old

The brand advises against putting the product in a bassinet, play yard, crib, or other contained areas. Even if the sides are made of breathable material, these may get caught on the non-breathable surfaces and can put your baby in danger of suffocation.

For your child’s safety, all the loungers go through these tests or have the following certifications:

• Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 certification – It’s the world-leading test for harmful substances, including fire retardants. (4)
• 16 CFR 1500 – Durability to withstand curious babies.
• British Standard 4578 – All docks are breathable and air-permeable.
• BS 4578, ASTM D3574 – Pads and tubes are tested for firmness.
• US CPSIA 2008 – Children’s product general safety regulations
• Test for the presence of phthalates and heavy metals that may damage your baby’s kidneys, lungs, liver, and reproductive system (7)
• Test for toxins in packaging to make sure it’s environmentally friendly
• Flammability safety (16 CFR 1632)
• British Standard 4578 – Stringent UK flammability regulations
• Ten standards for fabric performance, including fabric burst strength and seam strength
• Six color fastness tests, including dry rubbing, wet rubbing, and saliva
• Test for durability against tears and holes from teething babies

Key Features

• The products have a flat center and a tube-shaped raised wall that can keep your baby from rolling over.
• It’s designed in Sweden and made in Europe.
• It’s designed to grow with your baby, with a buckle at the bottom that you can open for additional length.
• It’s machine washable.
• It features child-safe zipper pulls.
• DockATot has a one-year limited warranty period.

Accessories

You can also get the following accessories to match your child’s lounger:

• Cabana kit (with a sunshade)
• Toy arch and toy set
• Travel bag for your baby gear and lounger
• Base protector
• Additional covers

Recall

• DockATot hasn’t issued any recalls on its products.
• But according to Consumer Reports, the brand may be linked to the death of two infants based on CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) data. (3)
• DockATot reportedly refused to comment on Consumer Reports’ findings. (3)
• The brand would later change the safety guidelines for their products. Instead of claiming that the items are “ideal for co-sleeping” on their website, the loungers are now recommended only for supervised lounging and playtime.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• It has more room in the padded middle section.
• Cleaning can be a breeze because you can simply put this product into the washing machine and dryer.

Cons

• It doesn’t have a cuddling effect like the Snuggle Me products.
• It’s not hypoallergenic.
• It has been linked to two infant deaths. (3)

What Customers Say

Positive Reviews

“This is our second one purchased. First one was given to a family member. I would call it the sisterhood of the travelling dockatot because so many family members reused my first one. I am pregnant again and decided to get a brand new one and wow is it gorgeous! I will forever recommend the dockatot to parents of babies.” – Reviewer on DockATot’s website.

“Absolute must! best gift I have received. this is the only thing my newborn wanted to sleep in until we transitioned her to a crib. It was amazing to be able to lay her on the couch in it, while I l grab a cup of coffee or do some things near her, without her being 100% attached to me all the time. It’s worth every penny. The padded rim made her secure and so comfy. Definitely recommend!” – Reviewer on Target.

“Love the doc a tot. My eight month old absolutely loves it. Thanks for making such a great product.” – Reviewer on DockATot’s website.

Negative Reviews

“I, like many people, had heard amazing things about the DockATot. I ordered it and used it for a few nights, but my husband and I felt very nervous about the product. After doing more research on their website, American Academy of Pediatrics’ website, etc. I determined that this isn’t a safe sleeping product. On DAT’s website, it says the DAT is used for “lounging, supervised napping and tummy time, co-sleeping, changing diapers, cuddling and playing.” No where does it say “normal sleeping in a crib,” which is how I intended to use it. It’s too soft and curved where the infant’s head is placed, similar to crib bumpers, which are not approved for safe sleep because of the risk of suffocation.” – Reviewer on Amazon.

“I looked into the safety of this, and it is just like baby bumpers on a crib which are no longer deemed safe. Then I found out that the DockATot’s safety instructions that require adult supervision during use—even when parents are asleep, which really defeats the purpose for us.” – Reviewer on Amazon.

“Quality looks fine. Although it is said for baby 0 to 8 months, it is too small for my 7-week old son already. His feet is touching the end, and his arm movement is limited. So for a baby product which can be used for couple weeks, $180 is too expensive. Not recommend.” – Reviewer on Target.

Summary And Recommendations

Which Is Safer Snuggle Me Or DockaTot?

Snuggle Me Organic and DockATot have a lot of similarities, with each one also having many advantages over the other.

These recommendations may help you choose the best infant lounger:

Choose Snuggle Me baby loungers if you prefer:

• A hypoallergenic product made of organic materials
• A lounger that can mimic a cuddle
• A brand with a 60-day money-back guarantee, so you can return the item if you aren’t satisfied with the purchase
• A product that doesn’t have straps and buckles which may lead to safety issues
• A lounger with an easy-to-remove cover that you can also top with puddle pads that may keep the pillow part dry
• A product that’s easier on the wallet

Choose DockATot infant loungers if you prefer:

• A product with European Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 certification to ensure they don’t have toxic and harmful chemicals (4)
• A product that has gone through more tests for your baby’s safety
• A brand with a one-year warranty
• A more stylish lounger with a wider range of colors and prints available
• A lounger that has a larger, padded center, which may be more comfortable for your baby
• A lounger that can grow with your baby
• Additional accessories like a cabana kit with a sunshade or an arch with toys

But no matter which brand you pick, never let your infant sleep in a baby lounger to reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and suffocation.

Baby Lounger FAQs

What Are The AAP’s Sleep Safety Guidelines?

As many as 3,500 infants die annually in the US due to sleep-related reasons: (2)

• SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)
• Accidental strangulation or suffocation in bed
• Ill-defined deaths

That’s why the AAP recommends providing your baby with a safe sleeping environment:

• Co-sleeping is also strongly discouraged, but the AAP recommends room-sharing so you can easily monitor your child. (3)
• Consider swaddling, but make sure to do it safely. While you have to make sure that the arms are snugly swaddled, you should leave the hips and legs a little loose, so there’s room for your baby to stretch and move. (3)
• Note that swaddling is only recommended up to two months old or when your baby starts to roll over on their own. Older babies may be more active and can get entangled in the swaddling blanket. (3)
• A white noise machine or some steady, soft lullaby music may help provide your baby with comforting sounds so they can sleep more peacefully. (3)
• Offer a pacifier. Though there’s a long-standing debate over the pros and cons of using a pacifier, the AAP recommends its use. Studies have shown that pacifiers may reduce the risks of SIDS. (2)
• It may be best to put your child to bed in a supine (face upward) position. (2)
• Based on AAP safety guidelines, you should never put your baby on a bed that’s too soft. (2)
• Your child should sleep on a firm surface free from blankets, soft toys, pillows, and other items that can cause suffocation. (2)
• The AAP also recommends avoidance of exposure to illicit drugs, alcohol, and smoke. (2)
• Baby loungers, rockers, strollers, car seats, and other sitting devices should never be used for sleeping. (2)

But despite these recommendations, it’s still a common practice for many parents to let their kids sleep in a baby lounger. But this can be unsafe. (3)

The confusion may be because infant loungers were originally designed for naps and co-sleeping. The raised sides are first thought to provide your child with a snug space where they can be safer from being rolled over. (3)

But several accidents involving these baby nests led to suffocation and, worse, some infant deaths. (3)

So, the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics), CPSC (US Consumer Product Safety Commission), and Health Canada issued a warning against letting your baby use these products for sleeping. (3)

Can Baby Sleep In Snuggle Me Supervised?

Yes, as long as it’s supervised. Always stay in the room and watch your baby when using the Snuggle Me.

The same rule applies to DockATot loungers.

REFERENCES

(1) https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx

(2) https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/138/5/e20162938/60309/SIDS-and-Other-Sleep-Related-Infant-Deaths-Updated

(3) https://www.consumerreports.org/child-safety/more-infant-sleep-products-linked-to-deaths-a1380476200/

(4) https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/apply-here/standard-100-by-oeko-tex

(5) https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features/ecological-and-social-criteria

(6) https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/do-not-use-infant-sleep-positioners-due-risk-suffocation

Does Snuggle Me prevent rolling?

When should baby stop sleeping in Snuggle Me?

Can baby sleep in Snuggle Me Organic lounger?

When should you stop using the Snuggle Me Organic?