Safe Crib?

If you’re anything like me, you’re constantly reading the baby magazines, the how-to guides and whatever other information you can get your hands on to ensure that you’re doing everything you possibly can to bring your baby up “right”.  Let’s be honest, while there is no “right” it’s nice to know you’re doing everything you can to keep your baby safe and healthy.  So stealing (literally) a page out of American Baby, let’s discuss the five SUPER SIMPLE tips to creating a safe crib:

1. Buy It New!:  Yes, we are all trying to save money but just like car seats, this is one of the things that you should not purchase second hand.  “Some used cribs have traditional drop sides, which don’t meet the latest safety standards, or they may have faulty or missing parts.  If you do accept a hand-me-down, check to see if it’s been recalled, then inspect it.  Broken?  TOSS IT.”
2. Test The Mattress:  “Make sure there’s only a slight indent – or none at all – when you press on it gently.  You also don’t want more than two fingers’ width between the edge of the mattress and the side of the crib.  The mattress pad and crib sheet should fit tightly.”
3. Place it Away From Windows:  Regardless of whether or not you live in an area where storm damage is a risk, placing your crib away from the windows is important for a number of reasons.  “Cords, blinds, and drapes pose a strangulation risk.  Plus, it could be drafty near windows during cool months, or hot and bright in the summer.  Keep anything with cords out of the crib and off any surface where Baby can reach them.”
4. Skip the bumpers:  Turns out ~ the risks far outweigh the positives of these cute crib accessories.  “People used to think they prevented minor injuries, but the risk of suffocation outweighs any potential benefits.  Bumpers also obscure your newborn’s line of vision so she can’t explore the room with her eyes while she’s chilling out.”
5. Go Bare: Skip the fluff.  “Stuffed animals, blankets, and pillows should never enter the crib.  A mobile is fine, but keep it high enough so your infant can’t reach it while lying on her back, and be sure to remove it as soon as your sweetie is able to push up onto her hands and knees.”

http://www.parents.com/baby/care/american-baby-how-tos/crib-safety/

So there you have it.  5 super quick, easy tips to ensure that your LO’s crib is a safe environment for them…  Just one less thing to worry about, right?

Hope you all have a fantastic Monday.

Sincerely,

~Nikki