Choosing the Perfect Baby Crib for Safety and Comfort
Learn how to select a safe and comfortable crib for your baby with our essential tips. From choosing certified models to ensuring proper mattress fit and safety precautions, this guide helps parents create a secure sleep environment for their little one, promoting healthy and safe infant sleep. Key advice includes avoiding used cribs, checking for hazards, and implementing safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure peace of mind.
The nursery's first piece of furniture for your newborn is the crib, providing a safe and cozy space for sleep. Compared to bassinets or bedside sleepers, cribs offer more stability for your little one. When selecting a crib, opt for a JPMA-certified model to ensure safety. Our guide highlights key tips to help you pick the safest and most comfortable crib for your baby.
Choose a simple design:
Select a crib without decorative finials or intricate scrollwork, as these features can pose safety hazards by catching your baby's clothes. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has banned drop-side cribs due to their association with infant injuries and fatalities.
For maximum safety, choose a basic crib that complies with all safety standards, ensuring the slats are sturdy, the structure is sound, and the mattress support is secure.
Prioritize safety:
Avoid purchasing secondhand cribs, as older models might not meet current safety regulations. If buying used, ensure the crib isn’t over 10 years old. Check the slats—they should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart—and inspect for any sharp edges or protruding hardware like screws, posts, or knobs.
Use a firm mattress:
Test the mattress by pressing down; it should bounce back quickly. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. According to federal guidelines, a full-sized crib mattress should measure 27 ¼ inches by 51 5/8 inches and be no thicker than 6 inches. Ensure the mattress fits snugly without gaps, and use fitted sheets to prevent entanglement. Avoid placing stuffed animals or bumper pads in the crib, as they can cause suffocation hazards.
Baby safety tips:
Always place your baby on their back to sleep. Make sure your crib has not been recalled. Regularly check hardware and tighten screws as needed. Remove mobiles once your baby starts to push themselves upright. Keep the crib away from windows, curtains, and cords, and ensure monitors are out of reach. Discontinue use of the crib if your baby starts to climb out.
