The makers of two popular baby slings sold in the UK have recalled them after they were linked to the deaths of three babies in the US.

The Press Association reports that baby carriers the SlingRider and the Wendy Bellissimo – both manufactured by US company Infantino – have been withdrawn from the market and parents have been advised to stop using them immediately.

The fabric baby slings enable a parent to carry their infant close to their body. However, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a statement earlier in March warning that the designs might present a risk of suffocation, particularly to babies under the age of four months or with colds or breathing problems – as well as premature babies or those of low birth weight. The CPSC did not name specific brands, however.

The CPSC said the three infant deaths linked to use of fabric slings occurred in the last year, but no details were given as to how the babies died.

It is thought around 14 infant deaths in the last 20 years have either been identified or are being investigated regarding a possible link to the use of fabric baby slings.

President of Infantino, Jack Vresics, said:

‘Our top priority is the safety of infants whose parents and caregivers use our products – and we highly value the trust that mothers and families place in the company's products every day.

‘Infantino is announcing a voluntary replacement programme for the Infantino SlingRider infant baby carriers to address concerns raised by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.’

‘This action is being taken in the US and Canada and also the UK and other European countries,’ Mr Vresics added.

In the UK, Buckinghamshire trading standards commission is advising parents to look at Infantino’s website (www.infantino.com) and follow the guidance offered. The company’s online statement confirms that parents will be offered a free replacement of their SlingRider or Wendy Bellissimo baby carriers.

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