FAQs About Crib Safety

Alleviate your fears of how to properly set up a crib with these FAQs about crib safety. Babies spend the majority of their time in their crib.  Because of this, examination of the crib and adherence to safety guidelines is essential.

Q: Do cribs have to adhere to safety standards?

A: Yes, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission establishes mandatory standards to make sure cribs are safe. Some of the rules include the banning of lead paint on cribs. Other standards include: side bars that are 26 inches above the mattress at its lowest position, crib slats that are not more than 2 3/8 inches apart and requirements for how far a child stands above the sidebar. Taller than an inch necessitates transition to a regular bed.

Q: What potential hazards are associated with my baby's crib?

A: There are some hazards to consider, but all of these are preventable. Do not place a crib near a window. There is a risk of your child getting tangled in the blind cords or even falling out of the window. Check your child's height to that of the sidebar. The taller your child gets, the lower the mattress level. Lowering the mattress height prevents your child from getting out. Fit the mattress snugly in the crib to prevent suffocation.

Q: How should I place my baby in the crib for sleeping?

A: The safe sleeping position is on a child's back or side. Try to use one piece sleepers and not blankets; blankets cause suffocation. Also, do not put pillows or toys in the crib as this also contributes to suffocation.