- First start with a crib which
has a firm, tight-fitting mattress so a baby cannot get trapped between the
mattress and the crib.
- Daycare.com suggests using StayPut™ Safety Crib Sheets on a child's bed mattress to prevent the danger of suffocation/strangulation. Free Crib Safety Packets are available.
-
Be sure NOT to place the baby's crib under a window where cords from the blinds
or drapes could entangle the baby's head and strangle.
- Make sure there are no missing,
loose, broken or improperly installed screws, brackets or other hardware on
the crib or mattress support.
- There should be no more than
2 3/8 inches (about the width of a soda can) between crib slats so a baby's
body cannot fit through the slats and be sure there are no missing or cracked
slats.
- Make sure there are no corner
posts over 1/16th inch high so a baby's clothing cannot catch.
- Also, be sure there are no cutouts
in the headboard or foot board so a baby's head cannot get trapped.
- When placing your baby in his/her
crib be sure to place baby on his/her back.*
- Do not put place items such as
pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, pillow-like bumper pads or pillow-like
stuffed toys in the crib. - Consider using a sleeper instead of a blanket.
- If using a blanket, be sure to
place the baby with his/her feet to the foot of the crib and tuck a thin blanket
around the crib mattress, covering baby only as high as his/her chest. Make
sure your baby's head remains uncovered during sleep.
- Use ONLY a fitted bottom sheet
specifically made for crib use.
- Do not place baby on a waterbed,
sofa, soft mattress, pillow, or other soft surface to sleep. Tips for mesh-sided
cribs or play yards:
- Make sure mesh is less than 1/4
inch in size, smaller than the tiny buttons on a baby's clothing.
- Be sure the mesh has no tears,
holes or loose threads that could entangle a baby.
- The mesh should be securely attached
to top rail and floor plate.
- If staples are used make sure
there are none missing, loose or exposed.
