Why Investing in a Safe and Sturdy Crib is a Must!
As a parent or a would-be parent, your little one’s safety and security is your top priority. You want the best for your bundle of joy, including a peaceful night’s sleep. One of the most essential items in your baby’s nursery is the crib, where your little one will spend a considerable amount of time sleeping, playing, and growing. It is crucial to invest in a safe and sturdy crib that meets the required safety standards to protect your baby from injury and harm.
The Importance of a Safe and Sturdy Crib
A crib is the safest place for your baby to sleep, and as such, it is important to ensure that it is sturdy and safe. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends that parents buy new cribs meeting the mandatory standards outlined in 16 CFR 1219 or 16 CFR 1220. The recommended standards ensure that your baby’s crib is safe and sturdy, with a fixed side gate to prevent your baby’s head from getting stuck in between the bars.
In addition, investing in a safe and sturdy crib will keep your baby free from harm, including suffocation, entrapment, strangulation, and falls. Baby furniture and equipment have caused a considerable number of injuries and deaths among children in the US. According to the CPSC, there are about 12,000 annual emergency room visits due to crib-related injuries, and about 33% of crib-related injuries are due to falls. Therefore, securing the best crib for your baby is essential to prevent such injuries.
Features of a Safe and Sturdy Crib
When shopping for a crib, it is easy to get carried away by the designs and aesthetics of cribs that meet your style preferences. However, it is essential to ensure that the crib has the necessary safety features. Here are the features to look out for when buying a safe and sturdy crib.
1. Fixed Side Rails
Fixed side rails are the safest option for your baby. They prevent your baby’s head from getting stuck in between the bars and ensure that your little one stays safe and secure.
2. Adequate Height
The height of the crib should be enough to prevent your baby from climbing out. The CPSC recommends that the top of the crib should be at least 26 inches above the mattress’s top when adjusted to the lowest position.
3. Mattress Support
Make sure the mattress support is sturdy and well-built to prevent it from collapsing under your baby’s weight. The best crib mattresses are firm, flat, and fit snugly to the crib to prevent gaps.
4. Hardware
Make sure all hardware is securely fastened, and there are no missing or loose screws, bolts, or other parts.
5. Non-toxic Finish
Choose a crib with a non-toxic finish that is safe for your baby in case they chew on the edges.
6. Certification
When shopping for a crib, make sure that it meets the mandatory safety standards outlined in 16 CFR 1219 or 16 CFR 1220. It should also have a certification from a reputable safety organization like JPMA or ASTM International.
Tips for Using a Crib Safely
Besides investing in a safe and sturdy crib, there are several tips you should consider to ensure that your baby stays safe while using the crib.
1. Use a Firm and Flat Mattress
The best crib mattresses are firm, flat, and fit snugly to the crib to prevent gaps. Soft mattresses can suffocate your baby, causing sleep-related death.
2. Use a Tight-fitting Sheet
Use a tight-fitting sheet to prevent your baby from slipping under the cover or getting tangled in the sheets, which can cause suffocation.
3. Avoid Blankets, Bumpers, and Soft Toys
Any soft object in the crib can pose a safety hazard, such as suffocation, strangulation or choking. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid using blankets, bumpers, soft toys or pillows.
4. Place the Crib Away from Windows and Cords
Place the crib away from window blinds and cords to prevent your baby from getting entangled or risk of strangulation.
5. Adjust the Mattress Height
Adjust the mattress height to ensure that it is appropriate for your baby’s size and age. As your baby grows, you can adjust the mattress height to the lowest position to prevent your baby from climbing out.
Avoid Second-hand Cribs or Drop-Side Cribs
Second-hand cribs may have been recalled or may have worn-out parts that may not meet the safety standards. It is, therefore, crucial to purchase a new crib from a reputable retailer that meets the mandatory standards. Also, avoid using drop-side cribs, which have been banned due to safety hazards that can cause injury or death to your baby.
Conclusion
Investing in a safe and sturdy crib for your little one is essential to ensure their safety and security. When shopping for a crib, it is essential to look beyond the aesthetics and choose a crib with the necessary safety features such as fixed side rails, adequate height, mattress support, hardware, non-toxic finish, and certification. Additionally, use the crib safely by using a firm and flat mattress, a tight-fitting sheet, avoiding blankets, bumpers, and soft toys, placing the crib away from windows and cords, and adjusting the mattress height accordingly. By following these tips, you can rest assured that your bundle of joy is safe and secure as they sleep and play in their crib.
Appears in digital newspapers and dominates search engines. Get informed here.