One of the biggest decisions that new parents have to make is choosing the right crib safety essentials for their newborn. It’s not just about buying a crib that’s adorable and comfortable. Choosing the right crib is mainly about setting up a safe sleeping space for the new baby. Did you know that cribs or mattresses are second on the list of products inside a nursery that cause injury? This is according to a study published in the April 2017 issue of Pediatrics . To keep your newborn safe, you have to learn and understand crib safety essentials:
1. The Mattress Should Be Tight Fitting
The mattress should be the same size as the crib. There should be no gaps that can potentially trap the baby’s arms, legs, or body. To check if the mattress fits correctly, try inserting more than two fingers in the spaces at the sides or ends of the crib. If you can do so easily, then your mattress doesn’t fit properly.
2. Install the Crib Properly
Read the crib’s manual thoroughly so you know exactly how to set up your crib for your newborn. All the parts have to be original to prevent the crib from falling apart. If some parts need replacement, the best way to get them would be from the manufacturer. Lastly, when installing the crib, be sure that all the nuts and bolts are tightened, and that all of the parts are securely fastened.
3. The Slats Should Be No More Than 2 3/8 inches
When the crib slats are too wide, it’s possible for the baby’s head or body to get stuck in between them. So, parents have to make sure that they stick to the 2 3/8 inches-rule. To make it easier, 2 3/8 inches is about the width of a soda can. There should also be no missing or cracked slats. Note: The 2 3/8 inches-rule can also be applied to the corner posts. If your crib has elevated corner posts, make sure that they are not higher than 2 3/8 inches to prevent you or the baby’s clothes from snagging on them. This is one of the most common crib safety essentials that new parents forget. It's better to get a crib with posts that are level with the frame.
4. No Cutouts in the Headboard or Footboard
Choose a crib that doesn’t have decorative cutouts on the headboard or footboard. The baby’s head or arms can potentially get trapped in these cutouts. A crib with a plain, flat headboard or footboard is more ideal. Remember that it’s not about aesthetics, but more about keeping your baby safe while sleeping.
5. Always Check the Mattress Support
If the crib you bought has bolts that hold up the board for the mattress to settle on, the bolts have to be checked regularly to ensure that they are not loose or broken. Most cribs should not have this as an issue but do check everytime you change the sheets. |
CRIB BEDDING SAFETY
Now that we are done with the crib safety essentials in terms of the crib’s structure let’s move on to crib bedding safety. New parents could make the mistake of putting plenty of pillows, crib bumpers, blankets, and other decor to make the baby more comfortable and warm when sleeping. These are so cute for photos and decor but make sure to take them out when the baby is sleeping. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, bare is best. Keep your baby warm with footed pajamas, and safety approved sleeping swaddles. Avoid using swaddles when your newborn becomes more mobile and is able to flip over. There should be no other clutter inside the baby’s crib or within babies reach when they are older and are able to reach for items. |
YOUR NEW BABY SHOULD BE RESTED AND SAFE
Even with following all of the crib safety tips, parents can still worry about their baby. Use a baby monitor |
