According to BabySake.com, nine infant deaths are attributed to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome every day in the United States. Also referred to as SIDS, suddent infant death is the term used to explain the unexpected death of an infant less than 1 year old, when all other possible causes of death have been ruled out. Studies have shown that crib safety is a critical issue when preventing SIDS. For this reason, all parents should be well versed on crib safety issues in order to be as proactive as possible about preventing the unexpected loss of their little one.
Soft Bedding in Baby Cribs
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Academy of Pediatrics have recently revised their recommendations when it comes to the use of soft bedding in infant cribs for babies less than 1 year old. While soft bedding can be used, it is recommended that babies be placed on their backs in cribs with soft bedding. Babies should be tucked into their blankets around the chest area, or dressed in sleepers to prevent the need for blankets in the crib. Make sure that the baby's head is completely uncovered while sleeping.
Crib Mattresses
Crib mattresses are an important consideration for crib safety. Mattresses should be tight fitting, leaving very little space between the inside of the crib and the edge of the mattress. If there is extra room between the crib and the mattress, tuck a blanket or towel in to fill in the extra space.
Other Mattress Types
Standard crib mattresses are the only types of mattresses approved for use in infant cribs. Air mattresses, water beds and other types of mattresses are not safe for use with infants under 1 year old.
Extra Items in the Crib
While it is perfectly acceptable and natural to give your baby toys and things to stimulate their little minds when they are in their cribs or playpens during the day, this is not a good idea when they are sleeping or prone to falling asleep in their cribs. Before your baby lays down to sleep, remove all stuffed toys, quilts, and pillows from their crib.
Used Crib Considerations
Used cribs can be purchased at a real steal, but over the years crib safety standards have advanced to encompass many of the SIDS safety issues posed. If you do do decide to purchase a used crib, check to make sure that the slats between the bars have no more room between them than about the size of a soda can. Check for missing hardware, loose slats, or otherwise loose pieces. Cutout decorations on used cribs are also a no-no, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
