A new investigation by consumer group Which? has uncovered a disturbing array of lethal baby products being sold on major online marketplaces, including items that pose a direct risk of suffocation or death to infants. The findings highlight critical safety gaps in e-commerce platforms that allow dangerous goods to reach parents and caregivers.
Dangerous Sleep Aids and Unsafe Accessories
Which? identified several products that violate safety standards, such as inclined sleepers that have been linked to infant deaths due to positional asphyxiation. These products were found on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress, despite being banned or recalled in other countries. The investigation also uncovered unsafe crib bumpers, weighted blankets for babies, and baby nests that fail to meet safety regulations.
Platforms Fail to Remove Known Hazards
According to Which?, the online marketplaces have been slow to remove these products even after being notified. Some items remained listed for weeks after the investigation flagged them. “It is completely unacceptable that dangerous baby products are still so easy to buy online,” said Which? head of consumer protection, Rocio Concha. “These platforms must take immediate action to protect vulnerable infants.”
Regulatory Gaps and Consumer Risk
The investigation points to a regulatory gap where products sold by third-party sellers on global marketplaces often bypass local safety checks. In the UK, products must meet the General Product Safety Regulations, but enforcement is inconsistent. Which? is calling for stronger oversight and mandatory safety checks for all baby products sold online.
Parents Urged to Exercise Caution
Parents are advised to only purchase baby products from reputable retailers and to check for safety certifications. Which? has provided a list of banned or recalled items on its website. The group also encourages reporting any suspicious products to trading standards.
Industry Response and Next Steps
Amazon stated that it has removed the items flagged by Which? and that it uses automated systems to block dangerous products. eBay said it prohibits unsafe items and takes action against sellers who violate policies. AliExpress did not comment. The UK government has announced a review of online marketplace regulations, with potential new laws expected to be introduced next year.
