Crib safety is a top priority for moms and dads. Babies spend a lot of time in their cribs, whether napping during the day or sleeping through the night. So it's very important that the crib is a completely safe place for them.
Tips to consider when choosing a crib
During the first years of a baby's life, it is essential to consider various aspects when choosing the right crib. To ensure safety in the crib, it is important to perform a thorough check before placing the baby inside. It does not matter if the crib is new or second-hand, check it anyway. Check the crib you use at home, such as the nursery or your relatives' house.
- The choice of crib must be made carefully, taking into account its size, comfort, certification, and stability. It is important that the crib has smooth or rounded shapes to ensure the baby's safety.
- Check that the sides fit correctly and that the safety locks cannot be activated from inside the crib by the baby. Also, check that there are no missing or protruding screws.
- The location of the crib in the room is key; it should be away from sources of excessive heat or cold and not placed under pictures or shelves. Also avoid placing objects near the crib that could fall on the baby.
- Crib safety extends to specific features, such as the spacing between the bars, which must be between 4.5 and 6.6 cm to prevent the baby from getting stuck. Check that they are not loose, splintered, or missing.
- The crib must have a minimum height of 60 cm, that is, from the deepest point of the crib to the highest point of the bars.
- Ensure that there is no space greater than 2 cm between the mattress and the edges of the crib.
- The mattress should be firm and breathable, with dimensions suitable for the crib. To facilitate cleaning, it is preferable that it has a removable cover with a zipper.
- For specific uses, a waterproof protective sheet may be used. Ensure that the sheets fit the mattress perfectly. Never use adult sheets in the crib.
The inside of the crib must be a safe place.
Crib safety is not limited to choosing the right crib, but also involves maintaining a safe environment inside it.
- It is recommended to avoid using pillows until the age of 2 due to the risk of suffocation. If a medical professional has recommended the use of a pillow for your baby, it should be very flat and not pose a risk to their health.
- Do not place toys, stuffed animals, pillows, or blankets inside the crib that could pose a suffocation risk to the baby.
- As soon as your child can stand up, make sure the mattress is in its lowest position in the crib.
- Crib mobiles should be placed when the baby can focus on them, i.e., from the third or fourth week of life. They should be removed from the crib when the baby begins to support themselves on their hands and knees or when they reach 5 months of age, whichever comes first.
- Always remember to place your baby on their back to sleep, both at night and during naps, as a preventive measure against sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
In summary, choosing the right crib and maintaining a safe environment inside it is essential for your baby's well-being. Follow these tips on what crib to choose and how to keep it safe to ensure that your little one sleeps and rests in a protected and comfortable space.
