Since she'll spend a large portion of her time in her bed, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has established some baby bed and crib guidelines that you should follow. According to the Family Education website, there are more infant deaths in cribs than in any other product made for babies. Before 1973, there were no federal government regulations for safety standards, so you'll need to avoid using a crib before that time. In 1992, most crib manufacturers voluntarily followed even more standards as set forth by the JPMA. For the most up-to-date safety features, look for one with this organization's seal.
Safety Agencies
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association was established in 1976 to certify products, letting retailers and consumers know that they have met safety standards after rigorous testing in laboratories and inspections at the manufacturing plants. In order to be certified by JPMA, manufacturers have to submit an application.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission's main job is to protect people from dangerous products that can injure them or cause death. This organization is committed to making sure cribs, toys, tools and other items are manufactured in the best interest of the consumer. According to the CPSC website, the rate of injuries and death has declined approximately 30% during the past 30 years.
Types of Baby Beds
There are several different types of baby beds that you may want to consider for your infant. When you first bring the baby home, you may choose to use a bassinet, since it takes up very little space and can be placed in the parents' bedroom. The mattress should be snug against the inside walls of the bassinet, and the legs should be securely locked in place to prevent it from collapsing. Stop using the bassinet when the baby reaches the maximum length or weight stated in the bassinet manual.
When you set out looking for a crib, find one with the JPMA certification advises the American Academy of Pediatrics Healthy Children website. If you get a used crib, check it over thoroughly.
If using a portable crib or playpen for a baby bed, follow all the guidelines set forth for cribs. Make sure there are no holes, rips or loose threads if the walls are made from mesh. If any part of the crib or playpen has been stapled, you don't want any of the staples exposed or missing.
Crib Safety Features
The slats should be 2-3/8 in. or less from each other. All of the parts should fit snugly, and the wood should be free from splinters. Avoid cutouts on end panels to prevent your infant's head from getting caught. You don't want corner posts or panels to extend more than 1/16 in. beyond the rest of the crib because clothing can get caught and strangle your baby. Make sure all the original hardware comes with the crib.
The mattress should fit snugly inside the crib to prevent any part of the baby from becoming trapped. Choose crib sheets designed to fit the mattress. You'll want to use fitted sheets that won't get tangled as the baby sleeps. Until the baby is about a year old, don't put a blanket or pillow in the crib, or she may suffocate or get tangled up in the extra bedding. Avoid using bumpers that can suffocate small babies or provide a step up for older babies to climb out of the crib.
Warnings and Precautions to Keep Baby Safe
Follow the manufacturer's instructions on setting up and caring for the crib. Never leave the sides down when you place the baby in the crib. Move all hanging toys and mobiles away from the baby's reach. As the baby starts to sit up or stand, lower the mattress so she can't climb out.
Avoid placing the crib near curtains, cords or anything else the baby can tug on or get caught in. Regularly inspect the crib and make sure the hardware is secure. Fill out the registration card that comes with the crib and send it to the manufacturer. Check for recalls frequently.
While shopping for a crib, look for the JPMA certification. Select a type of crib that meets the family's needs and has all the current safety features. Heed all the warnings and precautions during and after setting it up.
Find this article helpful? If so, read Baby Equipment for the Nursery, Home and Travel and Baby Layette – What Babies Need.
References:
JPMA. JPMA Certification Process (accessed on August 31, 2010).
CPSC. Crib Safety Tips (accessed on August 31, 2010).
Family Education. Crib and Bed Safety (accessed on August 31, 2010).
Healthy Children. Safety and Prevention: Choosing a Crib (accessed on August 31, 2010).
Debby Mayne - Debby Mayne is a published author of more than 30 novels and novellas and former fashion writer for the Home Shopping Network.
