Parents across the UK are being issued an urgent safety alert over a wildly popular baby grows sold on fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu. The item, which features built-in mittens, has been branded a potential suffocation hazard by leading child safety experts.
The viral 'two-in-one' sleepsuit has been massively promoted on social media platforms like TikTok, with influencers praising its convenience for preventing babies from scratching themselves. However, a crucial design flaw has sparked grave concerns amongst safety bodies.
The Hidden Danger in a 'Cute' Design
The warning centres on the suit's attached mittens. Unlike separate mittens or traditional babygrows, the cuff of this particular garment is not elasticated. This means there is no safe, quick way for a parent to remove them in an emergency.
"If the mitten part was to cover the baby's nose and mouth, they would not be able to remove it themselves, and it does not have an elasticated edge so it wouldn't spring back," explained a spokesperson for the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT). This creates a terrifying scenario where a infant could be silently deprived of oxygen.
Social Media Hype vs. Reality
The product gained immense popularity through #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt hauls, where it was touted as a must-have for new parents. This serves as a stark reminder that viral trends do not equate to safety approvals.
"It's really important to remember that just because you see something all over social media, it doesn't mean it's safe for your baby," the CAPT spokesperson emphasised, urging parents to exercise extreme caution with online purchases.
What Parents Should Do Now
If you have already purchased this item, safety organisations advise:
- Stop using it immediately for sleep or unsupervised rest.
- Consider cutting the mittens off the suit entirely to eliminate the risk.
- Stick to traditional, separate mittens that can be easily removed or that have secure, elasticated cuffs.
- Always prioritise products that meet UK safety standards over viral online trends.
This warning highlights the critical need for vigilance when buying baby products from online marketplaces, which may not be subject to the same rigorous safety checks as high-street retailers.
