How to Provide a Safe Crib Environment

It's important for parents to stay up-to-date on the safety of a crib and to make changes immediately if they find something to be unsafe. Even if you buy an older or used crib, make sure that it is current with current safety standards. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor about where to get up-to-date information regarding the crib you are interested in. Older cribs often don't meet current guidelines, because the wooden slats are too far apart and the child may be able to stick their head through the open spaces. Never leave broken or damaged parts on a crib. Always fix these things or replace the crib immediately.

Even if you buy an older or used crib, make sure that it is current with current safety standards. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor about where to get up-to-date information regarding the crib you are interested in. Older cribs often don't meet current guidelines, because the wooden slats are too far apart and the child may be able to stick their head through the open spaces. Never leave broken or damaged parts on a crib. Always fix these things or replace the crib immediately.

Avoid leaving a lot of extra blankets or stuffed animals and toys in the crib. Never leave a bottle or sippy cup in the crib for the child to get a hold of. This may cause drowning or suffocation. Cords and strings should be secured using proper safety methods and should never be reachable for the child (this may cause strangulation). Use a baby monitor so that you can hear what is going on with the child throughout the night. Some monitors have monitors so that the parents can see the child, but some parents may not be in a financial position to purchase such a monitor.