Picking out the perfect crib set from the sheets, mobile and bumper is a part of nesting, the powerful urge to prepare for your baby's arrival. Although crib bumpers are sold with most crib sets, they are unnecessary and actually dangerous. Since 1974, the space between crib slats has been regulated, making the need, but not the demand, for crib bumpers obsolete.
Function
Bumpers are supposed to pad crib rails, keeping babies safe from the open space between each crib rail slat. In addition to providing this buffer, bumpers may be used to add aesthetic appeal to the crib, with a pattern that matches or coordinates with the crib bedding. Bumpers are often tied with delicate bows, adding to the overall style.
Structure
The American Academy of Physicians recommends that when used, bumper pads should be "thin, firm, well-secured and not pillow like." Bumpers should sit flat and snug against the crib rails, leaving no gap between the crib and pad. Bumper ties should be shorter than 9 inches and kept out of the baby's reach. Bumper material should be made of a thin, breathable mesh, like the sides of many playpens, bassinets and strollers.
Hazards
Bumpers add to the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS, because babies can suffocate on the pads and choke on the crib ties. A 2007 study by the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis concluded that the risk of death from crib bumpers outweighs any possible benefits of bumpers. From January 1, 1985 to December 31, 2005, 27 infant deaths were attributed to crib bumpers and another 25 nonfatal crib bumper injuries were identified. Some older babies use crib bumpers as a step to climb out of their cribs, resulting in injuries from falls.
Crib Recommendations
Rather than using a crib bumper, ensure a safe and proper setup of your baby's crib. Buy her a new crib with stationary rails, and send back the warranty card so you will be alerted of any recalls. Since 2000, at least 32 infants have died from suffocation or strangulation of drop side rails, warns the Office on Women's Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Crib slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart and the slats should be secure, smooth and free of any chips or cracks. Corner posts should be no higher than 1/16 inch, and the minimum distance between the top of the mattress support and the top of the crib side rail must be 26 inches high, per federal regulations. The crib mattress should be firm, no thicker than 6 inches and fit snug against all sides of the crib.
Sleep Safety
Put your baby to sleep on his back, on a crib mattress covered with a crib sheet specifically designed for the mattress. Dress your baby so he will be warm enough without the need for blankets. If you must use a blanket, tuck the blanket into the mattress and allow the blanket to only reach your baby's chest, and position your baby so his feet can touch the end of the crib. Remove any loose bedding, pillows and toys from the crib as these pose the same risk of SIDS as crib bumpers. Keep the crib away from any loose cords or curtains. Remove your baby's mobile once he is 5 months old or able to reach out and grab the strings of the mobile.
References
- American Family Physician; AAP Releases New Guidelines on Preventing SIDS
- KidsHealth: Household Safety: Preventing Injuries in the Crib
- Sudden Infant Death Services of Illinois, Inc.: Deaths and Injuries Attributed to Infant Crib Bumper Pads
- Pub Med: Age, Side Height, and Spindle Shape of the Crib in Climbing Over the Side
- Office on Women's Health: Health Highlights May 24, 2010: Drop-Side Crib Ban Goes Before Congress
