Crib bumpers are used as a barrier between the baby and the hard sides of the crib to prevent the baby from bumping his head, or from getting his arms or legs stuck in the crib slats. The American Academy of Pediatrics no longer recommend the use of crib bumpers in cribs because the baby can get his face pressed against the bumper, prohibiting him from breathing. Parents who still desire a way to keep little arms and legs inside the crib however can use mesh bumpers that allow complete airflow should the child get his face against it.
Step 1
Measure all four sides of your crib on the inside to determine the length of crib bumper you need. Crib bumpers are available in different lengths, though some are one-size-fits-all. Purchase a crib bumper that will most closely fit your baby's crib.
Step 2
Place the bumper inside your baby's crib and begin to fasten it to the crib. Depending on the style of bumper you choose, it may fasten with ties, Velcro, or snaps. Read the instructions that came with your particular bumper very carefully to make sure you understand how it works. Securely fasten the bumper to the crib, making sure the bumper secures in at least six places, explains Consumer Reports.
Step 3
Trim the ties using scissors if they are over seven inches long. Excessively long ties have been linked to strangulation in babies.
Step 4
Verify that the bumper fits securely and snugly all the way around the crib, and that there are no gaps that the baby could become entrapped in. Make sure the ties are short and do not pose a safety hazard.
Tips and Warnings
- Remove the bumper from the crib when the baby is able to pull himself up into a standing position. Crib bumpers, no matter the type, can be used to help the baby climb out of the crib when he becomes mobile.
Things You'll Need
- Crib
- Crib bumper
