According to KeepingKidsSafe.org, cribs were responsible for 11,500 infant injuries in one year. In a two-year period, more than 90 babies died in cribs. More babies die in cribs than in any other nursery product, says KidsHealth.org. When shopping for a bed for your baby, buy a new crib if possible. Older cribs are less likely to meet current safety requirements, and may have been recalled for safety reasons.
No Entrapment Risks
If the measurement between the crib slats is more than 2 3/8 inches, your baby's head or other body parts may get stuck between them, causing injury or death, warns the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. This is narrower than the width of a soda can. If you are buying a used crib or accepting a hand-me-down, check to see that all slats are still tight, that none are missing and that the spacing is not too large. Also, avoid older cribs that contain cutouts where your baby's head may get stuck. The mattress should fit snugly to prevent an arm or a leg from getting caught between it and the side of the crib.
Minimized Fall Risks
KidsHealth.org suggests that your crib have two mechanisms for lowering the side rails. This can prevent the rails from accidentally becoming disengaged, allowing your baby or toddler to tumble out. Another important consideration is the height of the rails in relation to the mattress at various positions. With the mattress support at the highest position, the top of the lowered crib rail should be at least 9 inches above the mattress support. With the mattress support at the lowest position and the crib rail raised, the distance between the mattress support and the top of the rail should be at least 26 inches, says KidsHealth.org.
Minimized SIDS Risks
Once the crib is set up in your home, you can minimize the risk that your baby will suffer from SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Choose a firm mattress, and cover it with only a fitted sheet, recommends BabyCenter. Do not use blankets, pillows, stuffed animals or anything else that may suffocate or strangle your baby. If you are afraid that your baby may get cold, dress her in footed pajamas instead of covering her with a blanket.
