By Nathalie Voit 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised the general public to take note of the risks associated with baby neck floats. 

The federal agency said in an announcement that the use of the products could be fatal or lead to serious injury, particularly for babies with developmental delays or disabilities, such as spina bifida, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1, Down syndrome, or cerebral palsy.

“The FDA is aware that some manufacturers are claiming these products support water therapy interventions in babies with developmental delays or special needs and that the benefits of these products include increased muscle tone, greater flexibility, and range of motion, increased lung capacity, better sleep quality, and increased brain and nervous system stimulation,” the agency wrote on June 28.

However, the FDA said it did not establish the “safety and effectiveness” of these flotation devices to build strength or promote baby health.

“Be aware that these neck floats have not been evaluated by the FDA, and we are not aware of any demonstrated benefit with the use of neck floats for water therapy interventions,” the statement read. 

The FDA noted that the use of inflatable plastic rings was marketed to babies as young as two weeks old or born prematurely. The agency said the products are designed to cradle a baby’s head while their body moves freely underwater. The devices have been used during bath time, while a baby is swimming, and as a physical therapy tool (water intervention) for babies with developmental delays or special needs.

However, some notable dangers come with the use of these devices, including the risk of increased neck strain and injury that may lead to drowning and suffocation.

Most recently, one child died and another was hospitalized after their caregivers left them alone while wearing neck floats.

While death from neck floats is rare, the FDA said many cases might go unreported, and therefore parents and caregivers ought to be aware of the risks. 

The FDA said it would update the public if any new information arises.