When a baby is on the way, new moms have a lot to think about – decorating the nursery, arranging finances, deciding whether they should stay at home or return to work, and the changes in their bodies from pregnancy. However, one of the most important aspects of being a new mom is creating a safe and secure nursery for your baby.

A lot of moms will find a good previously owned crib or hand-me-down, instead of buying a new one. Obviously, when shopping for previously owned cribs, keep safety at the top of the list.

• Make sure the crib is in good shape, and is relatively new (to avoid the potential for lead paint). You should avoid antique cribs.
• Measure the distance in-between the slats. The space shouldn’t be more than 2-3/8 inches. Also, make sure there aren’t any missing slats.
• Also, check the rail height. To measure this, lower the mattress to its lowest and then raise the rails. Then, measure from the very top of the side rails down to the bottom of the mattress, ensuring there is a minimum of 26 inches in-between the two.
• Even though cut-outs in the head and foot of the crib are attractive and very beautiful, do not purchase cribs that have them. A baby’s head could get trapped in the cut-outs.
• Inspect the four corner posts to make sure they are level with the end panels. The posts can be as much as 1/16th of an inch higher than the end panels, but no more. This will reduce the risk of your baby’s clothes catching causing a strangulation hazard.
• Does the crib contain all of the hardware? If any hardware is missing, don’t purchase this crib and chose another one.

Once you decide on a crib that is safe and in good condition, take note of this list of safety tips so your little one can sleep safely.

• Put the crib in the nursery far from any windows. Window curtain cords and blinds could become wrapped around your little one’s neck.
• Check the mattress. It should fit in the crib without any gaps. If there is a gap in-between the crib and mattress large enough for two of your fingers, it is not safe. Resist the temptation to stuff the gap with blankets. You should get a new crib or mattress.
• Do not use blankets, quilts or pillows in your baby’s crib.
• Never try to create your own mattress waterproofing by with garbage or dry-cleaning bags. It’s possible they might stick to your little one’s face, causing a breathing hazzard.
• Install a smoke detector in your little one’s nursery or in the hallway outside the nursery. Remember to change the batteries every six months.
• Finally, always place your little one to sleep on her back.

Ruth H. Clark