Though baby bumpers were once a standard component to most crib bedding sets, many experts now advise against using bumpers in cribs. This is because the thick pads can restrict the baby's airflow, a fact that some doctors have tied to SIDS. If you want to line the crib to keep the child from sticking his arms and legs between the bars, "The Baby Gizmo Buying Guide" suggests installing a crib shield instead. Crib shields are made from breathable mesh material and cover the gaps in the crib walls without presenting a suffocation risk.
Step 1
Remove the crib shield from the packaging and spread the paneled sections out on the floor to release any wrinkles. The shield should include should be four panels, one for each wall of the crib. You can purchase crib shields at most stores that sell baby furniture and nursery linens.
Step 2
Pick up one of the short panels and lower it into the crib so that it spans the length of one of the narrow side walls of the crib and the fasteners are pointing out. Slide it down between the mattress and the rails until the base of the shield is flush against the crib base. Fasten the panel, by sliding the attached clips around the sides of the crib wall or snapping or Velcroing it in place, per the instructions that come with the shield. Repeat on the opposite side of the crib.
Step 3
Slide one of the longer panels into the crib, smoothing it against the wider front wall. Line it up with the base of the crib between the mattress and the slats, then fold the excess fabric over the top of the wall. Secure the shield with the snaps or Velcro provided by the manufacturer. Repeat the process on the opposite wall.
Step 4
Skip any solid walls in the crib. They don't need to be lined because they don't have gaps like the slatted walls.
Step 5
Make sure that all of the panels are fastened securely on the outside of the crib so the baby can't reach them.
Things You'll Need
- Crib shield
References
- "The Baby Gizmo Buying Guide"; Heather Maclean and Hollie Schultz; 2008
- BreathableBaby.com: Installing a Crib Shield
- "Caring for Your Baby and Young Child"; American Academy of Pediatrics; 2009
