What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall concerning specific inclined sleeper accessories manufactured by Kolcraft. This action targets the accessory components included with two particular models of bassinets and incline sleepers: the Kolcraft Cuddle 'n Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper and the Kolcraft Preferred Position 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper. It is crucial to understand that this recall applies exclusively to the inclined sleeper accessory itself, not the entire bassinet structure. The base units of these products remain safe for use once the recalled component is removed.
To determine if your product is part of this recall, you must check the model number located on the metal bar situated between the legs of the bassinet. The recall affects inclined sleeper accessories sold with the Kolcraft Cuddle 'n Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper, which has a model number starting with KB063. It also includes units sold with the Kolcraft Preferred Position 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper, identified by model numbers beginning with KB061. Because these items were distributed widely, many families may have them in their homes without immediately realizing they are part of this specific safety notice.
This recall was announced on February 20, 2020. While the provided record does not specify the exact number of units involved or the full range of retail locations where these items were sold, it is known that these accessories were marketed as part of a two-in-one system designed to allow infants to sleep in an inclined position. The manufacturer, Kolcraft, has been working to identify affected consumers by contacting all registered owners and known purchasers directly through postal mail via postcards. If you purchased the product but did not register it, you must rely on checking the model number yourself.
The focus of this recall is strictly on the inclined sleeper accessory because of the potential risks associated with inclined sleeping for infants. The rest of the bassinet, including the frame and non-inclined sleeping surfaces, is not subject to the recall. Consumers who own these models are advised to inspect the model number immediately to verify whether their specific unit falls under the KB061 or KB063 prefixes. If your model number matches one of these patterns, you possess a recalled item and should take the steps outlined in the remedy section to ensure your infant’s safety.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about inclined sleepers, we are discussing a specific design feature that, while intended to help with issues like spit-up or reflux, fundamentally alters the physics of how an infant interacts with their sleeping environment. The core danger lies in the angle itself. When a baby is placed on a surface that is tilted upward toward the head rather than lying completely flat, gravity naturally pulls their body downward. For an adult, this might feel like sliding slightly in bed. For an infant who lacks the neck strength and motor coordination to reposition themselves, it creates a precarious situation where they can easily slide down into a dangerous posture.
The primary mechanism of injury is suffocation due to positional asphyxia. As explained by the CPSC, infants have reported fatalities with other manufacturers’ inclined sleep products after rolling from their back to their stomach or side. This is not necessarily because the incline itself causes the roll, but because the slope facilitates it. When a baby slides down an inclined surface, their chin can drop toward their chest. This position, known as flexion, can compress the airway, making it difficult or impossible for the baby to breathe. Furthermore, if the baby rolls onto their stomach, their face may become pressed against the mattress or the sides of the bassinet. Because they cannot lift their head or turn away, they are trapped in a position where they cannot get fresh air.
Another critical factor is the instability of the sleeper itself. The recalled Kolcraft inclined sleeper accessory was designed to sit on top of a bassinet. This added height and the angled surface can make the entire unit less stable than a standard, flat-surface bassinet. If the baby kicks or shifts their weight, they may slide further down the incline, increasing the risk of their airway being obstructed by the mattress, the sides of the product, or even their own limbs. The recall notice highlights that while no incidents have been reported specifically with this Kolcraft model, the agency has acted based on known fatalities associated with similar inclined sleep products from other brands. This is a precautionary measure grounded in the well-documented risks of this class of product: the combination of an inclined surface and an infant’s developing motor skills creates a high-risk environment for accidental suffocation.
It is also important to understand that these risks are not limited to older infants who can roll over. Even young babies, who may not have full head control, can experience airway obstruction if their position shifts significantly due to the slope. The CPSC’s concern is rooted in the fact that standard bassinets and cribs are designed to be flat specifically to prevent these sliding and rolling hazards. By introducing an incline, the product changes the baby’s center of gravity and introduces a dynamic element that standard sleep surfaces do not have. This is why safety experts and regulators strongly advise against using any inclined sleeper for infant sleep, regardless of whether it is marketed as a "napping" or "sleeping" aid.
In summary, the hazard is not just about the angle but about the loss of control over the baby’s position. The incline allows gravity to work against the baby’s safety, potentially leading to them sliding into a position where they cannot breathe. This is why the remedy involves removing this accessory entirely, returning the bassinet to its original, flat configuration, which is the only safe way for an infant to sleep.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall consists of parents and caregivers who have purchased the Kolcraft Cuddle 'n Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper or the Preferred Position 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper. Specifically, it is the infants using the inclined sleeper accessory that is in danger. While these products are designed to offer convenience for caregivers by allowing babies to sleep at an angle, the CPSC highlights a critical vulnerability: the risk of suffocation. The hazard is not limited to just those who have registered their product directly with Kolcraft; it extends to any consumer who bought this accessory, whether new or used, as long as it was sold with the specified models.
The infants at highest risk are those who can roll over. According to the recall facts, infant fatalities have been reported with other manufacturers' inclined sleep products when infants rolled from their back to their stomach or side. This is a crucial distinction because many parents might assume that placing a baby on their back is sufficient for safety. However, as babies grow and develop motor skills, even slightly, they may shift positions during sleep. In an inclined position, gravity can cause the baby’s body to slide down, potentially bringing their chin to their chest or causing them to roll face-down into the mattress or side of the bassinet. This creates a suffocation hazard that is unique to the incline design.
It is important to note that while no incidents have been reported specifically with the Kolcraft branded inclined sleeper accessory at this time, the recall is precautionary based on known risks associated with this type of product. The absence of reported incidents does not mean the risk is nonexistent; it means the specific failure mode has not yet resulted in a reported fatality for this exact brand. However, the general danger remains for any infant who might roll or slide within the inclined plane. Therefore, all users of the recalled accessory are considered at potential risk, regardless of whether their baby has shown signs of rolling.
Caregivers who may be particularly vulnerable to ignoring this recall include those who rely heavily on the convenience of the inclined sleeper for easier feeding or monitoring. The product’s design might make it seem safer or more comfortable than a flat surface, leading to a false sense of security. However, the CPSC and safety experts emphasize that flat, firm surfaces are the only safe sleep environment for infants. The inclination itself is the risk factor, not necessarily the quality of the mattress or the sturdiness of the bassinet frame. Thus, the entire user base who continues to use the inclined accessory is at risk, even if they believe their baby is sleeping safely.
Additionally, anyone who has received the product as a gift or purchased it secondhand is equally at risk. The recall applies to the physical product, not just the original purchaser. Since Kolcraft is contacting registered owners and known purchasers via mail, some users may not receive this information immediately. Therefore, all individuals who own or use the Cuddle 'n Care (model KB063) or Preferred Position (model KB061) bassinets with the inclined sleeper accessory must take immediate action to remove the hazard for their infants.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, it is critical that you verify exactly which product you own. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does not affect every Kolcraft bassinet ever made; it targets a very specific accessory included with two particular lines of products. To ensure you are checking the right item, you need to look for specific brand names, model number prefixes, and physical locations on the device itself.
First, confirm that you own one of the two affected models: the Kolcraft Cuddle 'n Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper or the Kolcraft Preferred Position 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper. The recall specifically involves the inclined sleeper accessory that comes with these bassinets. It is important to note that only this inclined portion is being recalled, not the entire bassinet frame or other components. If you have a different Kolcraft model or a bassinet from another manufacturer, this specific notice does not apply to your unit.
To identify your exact model, you must locate the model number label. According to the recall facts, these numbers are found on the metal bar situated between the legs of the bassinet. This is a common place for manufacturers to put identification tags because it remains visible and accessible even when the bassinet is assembled in a corner or near a wall. Once you find this metal bar, look closely at the beginning of the model number string.
Your product is part of this recall if your model number starts with KB063 (for the Cuddle 'n Care line) or KB061 (for the Preferred Position line). If your model number begins with a different set of characters, such as KB070 or any other prefix not listed here, it is likely not included in this specific safety notice. Since the recall facts do not provide information on color variants, sizes, or specific retail locations where these were sold, you should rely primarily on these alphanumeric model codes for confirmation.
If you are unable to find the metal bar between the legs, or if the label is worn and illegible, do not guess. The safest approach is to contact Kolcraft directly using the information provided in the recall notice. They can help you confirm whether your specific unit is affected based on its unique identification details. Until you have verified the model number, it is prudent to avoid using the inclined sleeper accessory with any infant.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Kolcraft inclined sleeper accessories, the most important thing you can do right now is simply stop using it. This isn’t a suggestion; it is a critical safety measure. The CPSC and Kolcraft have identified a clear risk of suffocation associated with these specific incline sleepers, particularly because infants can roll from their back to their stomach or side while in the inclined position. Even though no incidents have been reported specifically for this Kolcraft model yet, other manufacturers have faced infant fatalities under similar circumstances. Therefore, treating this recall with urgency is the only way to ensure your baby’s safety. You do not need to throw away the entire bassinet if you own a Cuddle 'n Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper (model KB063) or a Preferred Position 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper (model KB061). The recall only applies to the inclined sleeper accessory itself. You can continue to use the bassinet portion of the product safely, provided you remove the recalled incline feature entirely.
Your next step is to reach out to Kolcraft to claim your remedy. You have two options for compensation: a $35 voucher that can be used on www.Kolcraft.com until February 20, 2022, or a direct $20 refund. To get either of these, you will need to contact Kolcraft directly. You can call them at 800-453-7673. It is helpful to know their hours of operation so you don’t waste time waiting on hold. They are available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time, and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Central Time. Alternatively, you can send an email to customerservice@kolcraft.com. If you prefer to handle things online, visit www.Kolcraft.com and look for the “Incline Sleeper Recall” or “Safety Notifications” sections on their website for more detailed guidance and forms.
If you have registered your product with Kolcraft in the past, you may not need to take any action at all. Kolcraft is proactively contacting all registered owners and known purchasers directly via a postcard by mail. Check your mailbox for this communication, as it will contain specific instructions on how to proceed with your refund or voucher. However, if you did not register your product or have not received this postcard, you must take the initiative to contact them using the methods described above. Do not wait. The sooner you remove the inclined sleeper accessory from your home and secure your remedy, the sooner you can rest easy knowing your baby is sleeping in a safe, flat environment.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own the recalled Kolcraft inclined sleeper accessory, you have two clear paths to resolve this issue: accepting a $35 voucher for future purchases on the Kolcraft website or receiving a direct $20 refund. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Kolcraft have designed these options to be straightforward, ensuring that every affected consumer can choose the remedy that best fits their financial situation and shopping preferences. It is important to understand that you are not required to return the physical accessory to receive your money or voucher. The company has acknowledged the risk associated with this specific component and has structured the remedy to remove any barrier to compliance for the consumer.
The first option involves a $35 digital voucher. This credit is exclusively valid for use on www.Kolcraft.com and comes with a strict expiration date of February 20, 2022. If you are planning to purchase other baby gear from Kolcraft in the near future, this may be the more valuable choice, as it provides $15 more in potential savings than the cash refund. To utilize this voucher, you will likely need to navigate to the “Incline Sleeper Recall” or “Safety Notifications” section of their website after contacting them. Keep in mind that once the voucher is issued, it must be redeemed within the specified timeframe, so do not let it expire unused.
The second option is a straightforward $20 refund. This is ideal if you do not intend to buy more Kolcraft products or if you prefer immediate cash back rather than store credit. The amount is fixed and applies regardless of the original purchase price of the bassinet unit, as only the inclined sleeper accessory is under recall. You do not need to pay for shipping to send anything back; the refund is processed based on your proof of ownership or registration status.
To initiate either remedy, you should contact Kolcraft directly. They are also reaching out to registered owners and known purchasers via postcard, so check your mail first. If you do not receive a postcard, or if you need assistance, call 800-453-7673. Their customer service team is available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT, and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CT. Alternatively, you may email customerservice@kolcraft.com with your model number and purchase details to request your chosen remedy. The process is designed to be low-stress, so do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions about eligibility or redemption.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might want to keep using the inclined sleeper accessory. For many parents, these devices offer a convenient way to keep their baby upright for feeding or soothing, and they often fit neatly into a busy household routine. The Kolcraft Cuddle 'n Care and Preferred Position bassinets are sturdy pieces of furniture, and the included inclined sleeper accessory is designed to slot in seamlessly. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an administrative oversight; it is a significant safety risk that can have tragic consequences. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued this recall because the design itself poses a fundamental danger that cannot be mitigated by careful monitoring alone.
The core issue lies in how infants develop physically and how gravity interacts with inclined surfaces. While your baby may currently lie safely on their back, their muscle strength and ability to roll over develop rapidly and unpredictably. If an infant rolls from their back to their stomach or side while lying on the incline, their body weight shifts forward. In a flat crib or bassinet, this is manageable because the surface remains level beneath them. On an inclined sleeper, however, gravity pulls the baby’s head down toward the mattress. This position can cause the chin to tuck against the chest, a phenomenon known as positional asphyxia. When the airway is compressed in this way, the infant may struggle to breathe effectively, even if they are otherwise healthy and awake.
What makes this hazard particularly insidious is that it can happen quickly and without warning signs. An infant might not gasp or cry out; they may simply slip into a state of unconsciousness while appearing to sleep peacefully. The CPSC notes that infant fatalities have been reported with other manufacturers' inclined sleep products under these exact circumstances. While no incidents have been specifically reported for the Kolcraft accessory in this current recall, the physics of the hazard remain identical. The incline creates a wedge that can trap an infant’s face against the surface or cause their body to slump into a position where they cannot lift their head to breathe. This risk does not disappear as long as the accessory is attached and in use.
Continuing to use the recalled item also means you are relying on a product that has been deemed unsafe by federal regulators. The remedy offered—a voucher or refund—is straightforward and immediate, but it requires action. If you choose to ignore the recall, you are gambling with your child’s safety based on the hope that nothing will go wrong. Given that suffocation is a leading cause of injury-related death in infants, it is not a risk worth taking. The bassinet itself remains safe and usable without the accessory, but keeping the inclined sleeper attached turns a safe piece of furniture into a potential hazard. Do not wait for an incident to occur; the consequences of ignoring this recall are too severe and too irreversible.