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Injury Prevention

Crib Safety & Bedtime

In addition to the crib safety tips already mentioned, it’s a good idea to remember the following.

  • Install bumper pads around all four sides of the crib, and attach each bumper pad to the crib with at least six safety straps to ensure a tight fit. Remove the bumper pads after your baby learns to kneel, stand or move around the crib.
  • Always keep crib rails up when a child is in a crib. Make sure the side latches are holding securely.
  • Never tie or harness your baby in her crib.
  • Lower the crib mattress as your baby grows and before she is able to pull herself up.
  • Do not put pillows, stuffed animals or thick blankets in the crib. A child can suffocate on a pillow or stuffed animal or use them as steps to climb out.
  • Do not use plastic mattress pads. The plastic can cling to her face and cause suffocation.
  • Never allow your baby to rest or sleep on a waterbed. A waterbed mattress against a child’s face can cause suffocation.
  • A child should be moved to a bed when she learns to climb out of her crib or is 32 inches tall. Use guardrails on your child’s bed to prevent falls.
  • Children under 7 should not be permitted to sleep or play on the top bunk of bunk beds.
  • Guardrails on beds should be 3 1/2 inches apart or less to prevent a child from getting stuck.
Last Update
May 23, 2008
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Last Update
May 23, 2008
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