Cribs

Your baby’s bedroom and crib or bed should be extra safe. Her crib and—once she’s mobile—her

room are where she will first push the boundaries of exploration, without direct supervision much

of the time. To keep the path clear, her surroundings should be free of traps and hazards as much as

possible.

Safety Check for All Baby Furniture Check that all furniture complies with up to date safety requirements and is appropriate for your baby’s

age. This is especially important when you are using previously owned pieces bought or passed on as gifts.

Antique cribs, for example, may look pretty, but the spacing between the slats rarely conforms to

the current standard of 2 ⅜ inches or less, which is intended to make it impossible for a baby’s head to

become caught. In addition, the finish may include old layers of lead‑based paint. You can trust new

furniture if it bears the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association safety certification seal. All fabrics

used in your baby’s room (for example, sleepwear, sheets, curtains) should be flame retardant.

How to Choose a Safe Crib

• Bars should be spaced no more than 2 ⅜ inches apart.

• The mattress should be very firm and should not sag under your baby’s weight. It should fit snugly, with no space between it and the crib walls.

• The top of the crib rail should be at least 26 inches from the top of the mattress. Periodically lower the mattress as your child gets taller.

• The headboards and footboards should be solid, with no decorative cutouts. Corner posts that could cause injury or snag clothing should be removed.

• Do not use cribs with drop rails. These are not safe.

• Crib bumpers (or bumper pads) may seem as though they can help protect babies from drafts and bumps, but they should not be used in cribs. There is no evidence that bumper pads can prevent serious injuries, and they pose a risk of suffocation, strangulation, or entrapment. In addition, older babies can use them for climbing out of the crib.

• Keep large toys and stuffed animals out of the crib, as your baby may use them to get a leg up and over the rail. Pillows, bulky comforters, and heavy blankets do not belong in a crib; a baby can smother under them.

• Place the crib away from windows, where direct sunlight and drafts can make your baby uncomfortable. A crib can become uncomfortably hot if placed too near a radiator. Also make sure that there are no strings from blinds or curtains close by that can wrap around the baby’s neck.

• Once your child is about 3 feet tall, he should start sleeping in a bed. If you are worried about him falling out of bed, you may want to start with the mattress on the floor.

• Fit your baby’s crib with a firm mattress and make sure there’s no space between the mattress and crib walls. Your baby should never sleep on a water bed, sheepskin, pillow, sofa, armchair, or other soft surface. Thick blankets, duvets, comforters, pillows, and large, soft, stuffed toys should never be used in babies’ cribs; a baby can easily be smothered if trapped under bulky bedding or when his face is pressed up against a pillow.

• Babies do not need extra support, such as from rolled blankets or commercial devices, to keep them on their backs. Cumbersome materials like these clutter up the crib and may be hazardous for a baby.

(Source Sleep: What Every Parent Needs to Know (Copyright © 2013 American Academy of Pediatrics) The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.)

Strollers

Look for These Stroller Safety Features & Take the Following Precautions:

1. If you use bumpers in your stroller, or if you string toys across it, fasten them securely so they can’t

fall on top of the baby. Remove such toys as soon as the baby can sit or get on all fours.

2. Strollers should have brakes that are easy to operate. Use the brake whenever you are stopped, and

be sure your child can’t reach the release lever. A brake that locks two wheels provides an extra

measure of safety.

3. Select a stroller with a wide base, so it won’t tip over.

4. Children’s fingers can become caught in the hinges that fold the stroller, so keep your child at a safe

distance when you open and close it. Make sure the stroller is securely locked open before putting

your child in it. Check that your baby’s fingers cannot reach the stroller wheels.

5. Don’t hang bags or other items from the handles of your stroller—they can make it tip backward. If

the stroller has a basket for carrying things, be sure it is placed low and near the rear wheels.

6. The stroller should have a seat belt and harness, and it should be used whenever your child goes for

a ride. For infants, use rolled up baby blankets as bumpers on either side of the seat.

7. Never leave your child unattended.

8. If you purchase a side-by-side twin stroller, be sure the footrest extends all the way across both

sitting areas. A child’s foot can become trapped between separate footrests.

9. There are also strollers that allow an older child to sit or stand in the rear. Be mindful of weight

guidelines and especially careful that the child in the back doesn’t become overly active and tip the

stroller.

New Stroller Safety Standards from CPSC: The Consumer Product Safety Commission has approved new federal safety standards for carriages and

strollers.

The new standard addresses stroller head entrapment, broken wheels,

parking brake failures, locking mechanism problems, restraint issues such as a child unbuckling the

restraint and restraint breakage or detachment, and hinge issues such as pinching and amputations. CPSC

has received about 1,300 incident reports related to strollers reported from January 1, 2008 through June

30, 2013. Four of those incidents involved a fatality. The new standard will take effect in September 2015.

Learn more about the new standard on the

(Last Updated 11/21/2015. Source Adapted from Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age Five.

Copyright © 2009 American Academy of Pediatrics)

Baby Carriers

The lowdown on baby carriers: You can transport your baby in a stroller or car seat, but many parents

enjoy the simplicity and feeling of closeness provided by a baby carrier. Baby carriers cuddle your child

against your body while leaving your hands free. You can move easily, navigate crowded places, and take

care of daily tasks while your child snoozes or relaxes on you. Experts say baby wearing can soothe a fussy

or colicky child, help lower a mom's risk for postpartum depression, and promote bonding with parents.

Some parents only use baby carriers in the early months, finding them uncomfortable once their baby

https://www.babycenter.com/0_how-to-buy-a-stroller_1427.bchttps://www.babycenter.com/0_colic-what-is-it_77.bchttps://www.babycenter.com/0_postpartum-depression-and-anxiety_227.bc

reaches 15 to 20 pounds. Other parents happily tote kids long past this point. Some of the newest carriers

on the market intended for toddlers handle weights up to 50 or 60 pounds, and have ergonomic pads and

straps designed to shift the weight of your child onto your hips and off your shoulders and back.

Baby carrier’s buying guide:

Types of baby carriers:

A front carrier consists of two shoulder straps that support a fabric seat. The carrier – and therefore your

baby – is worn very close to your chest. At first, your newborn will face inward, toward you. Once your baby

has good head control and can sit up, usually around 5 to 6 months, you can turn him outward to look at

the world. Some front carriers can also be worn on your back, which will be more comfortable for you when

your child's heavier – and will give your child a great view. One downside to front carriers is that some

don't lend themselves easily to breastfeeding while wearing your baby. Also, a front carrier may feel too big

and bulky for your newborn.

A sling is a wide swath of fabric worn across your torso and over one shoulder. They come padded,

unpadded, and with or without rings for adjustment. If you're breastfeeding, a sling is nice because the

loose fit and generous fabric allow you to nurse your baby discreetly. All that fabric means that slings can

be cumbersome, particularly for petite women. And the one-shoulder support can quickly become

uncomfortable, especially once your child weighs more than 10 to 15 pounds.

A wrap is a wide piece of fabric usually worn around your body and over both shoulders. These are popular

because they're so versatile – you can wear a wrap in all kinds of configurations and easily adjust it by

pulling on the fabric. Like slings, wraps can make it simple to breastfeed your baby while wearing him. The

downside is that wraps can be time-consuming and confusing to take on and off. And like slings, they aren't

as comfortable for carrying bigger kids because they don't have the padding and support that front carriers

offer.

What to look for when buying:

Type: You may find that some carriers work better than others, depending on your body and your baby. If

you can, try a few different types before buying.

Versatility: Some parents prefer a sling or wrap for their younger baby and a structured carrier for an

older baby or toddler. But many carriers are designed to grow with your child from infancy on.

Comfort for you: Look for wide, well-padded straps or sturdy fabric to distribute your baby's weight

evenly and save your shoulders, neck, and upper back from strain. If you are going to share the carrier with

another parent or caregiver, make sure it's easily adjustable. Many structured carriers come in both regular

and extra-large sizes for tall or plus-sized parents.

Comfort for your baby: With front carriers, look for padded leg holes that are loose enough not to

constrict your baby's thighs – but not so loose that your baby could slip through them. Your baby will

probably sleep in the carrier, so you may want one with a padded headrest to support her head and neck.

Sturdiness: Before using your front carrier, make sure the seat and straps will support your baby securely

and that all buckles, snaps, and belts are durable and in good working order.

Easy to use: Unless you are willing to put in some time learning the ropes, make sure your carrier is easy

to navigate by yourself, preferably with one hand. You'll need to be able to take it on and off and get your

https://www.babycenter.com/0_baby-milestones-head-control_6579.bchttps://www.babycenter.com/0_baby-milestones-sitting_6505.bchttps://www.babycenter.com/0_positions-and-tips-for-making-breastfeeding-work_8784.bc

baby in and out without help. Some structured carriers are designed to unbuckle easily so you can move

your sleeping baby into a crib or stroller without waking him.

Nursing-friendly: Consider whether you'll want to breastfeed while wearing your baby. Slings and wraps

often make this easier than structured front carriers do.

Weather-appropriate: Some carriers may be too warm for the dog days of summer. Darker colors really

heat up. If you'll be carrying your baby in hot weather, choose one that's made of lighter fabric.

Easy to clean: Kids are messy, so it helps to have a machine-washable carrier.

Important safety notes:

-If your baby is younger than 4 months old, was born prematurely or at low birth weight, or has a cold or

respiratory problem, consult your child's doctor before using a sling.

-While wearing your baby in a sling or wrap, check on him often. Make sure he's not in a curled, chin-to-

chest position and that his face isn't pressed up against the fabric or you. Both of these positions can lead to

suffocation, which can happen within minutes.

-Make sure you can see your baby's face or eyes in the sling and that your baby can see you. Unless you're

nursing her, your baby's face should be visible (at or above the rim of your sling or wrap).

-If you nurse your baby while wearing him, reposition him afterward so his face is visible and at or above

the rim of the sling or wrap. His face should be away from the fabric and your body.

What it's going to cost you:

Structured carriers can range from $30 to $180; wraps and slings from $25 to $200; mei tais from $20 to

$100; and baby backpacks from $150 to $300. The price of structured carriers and baby backpacks tends to

vary according to the number of features including weight limits, carrying styles and fabric; higher-priced

wraps, slings, and mei tais are usually quite similar to lower-priced models functionally, but are made of

higher-quality fabric.

© Copyright 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics. All rights reserved.

Playpens/Play Yards

Getting Started:

A play yard doesn't have to be high on your list of priorities, but it will certainly come in handy—especially

when you hit the road. Play yards are usually easy to set up and collapse, giving you a portable, safe space

for your baby to rest or play.

Unlike the square playpens your parents may have used, most of today's play yards are often rectangular

and may have extras to amuse your baby, including mobiles, detachable toy bars, or entertainment centers

that feature music, nature sounds, and/or blinking lights (some activated by remote control).

If you want to use your play yard as a changing station, many come with a changing-table insert or an

attachment that flips into position from the side. Some play yards with changing tables also have organizers

or built-in storage shelves for diapers and baby wipes. Many play yards also come with a bassinet

attachment for babies weighing 15 pounds or less. While those two features can be useful, keep in mind that

your baby will outgrow them pretty quickly. Most play yards can be used (without attachments) until your

child weighs about 30 pounds—around 2 years old.

Remember that no matter how comfortable your baby seems dozing in a play yard or its bassinet

attachment, a full-sized crib is the safest place for him to sleep.

Play-yard frames are typically made of metal tubing. Mesh on three or, better yet, all four sides provides

ventilation and allows you to see your baby. Most models have hinges and lock buttons in the center of the

top rails. To set up a play yard, you'll need to pull the top rails up so that they're locked, then push the floor

down and secure the play yard mattress or pad. To fold this design, you'll need to pull the floor up, and then

raise the top rails slightly while pressing the release buttons to unlatch and collapse the top rails. Before

assembling or using your play yard, read the owner's manual carefully and keep it handy for future

reference.

If your play yard is going to function mostly as a play space for your baby, or you're on a tight budget, you

can probably go with a basic model and skip the accessories such as mobiles and bassinet insert. A pair of

lockable wheels or swivel casters on one end of the yard will make it easier to move from room to room. If

you'll use it for travel, you'll want a play yard that's lightweight, folds quickly and compactly, and has a

carrying case. You may even want to be able to roll the packed unit. A carrying bag that allows the play

yard's wheels to roll when it's packed is ideal.

Shopping Tips:

Roll with it. Some manufacturers claim that their play yards fold compactly and easily, which is especially

important if you'll be traveling with it or assembling and disassembling it often. See for yourself how easy it

is by practicing on floor models in the store before you buy. Some parents find that while they can collapse

their play yard in a jiffy, fitting the whole thing into its travel bag is almost impossible. If traveling with the

play yard is important to you, look at the travel bags when you are shopping.

Some basic models may be easier to cart around because they don't have any extra parts. You can also look

for bags that leave the play yard's wheels free, so the whole thing can be rolled once it's packed up. If you

plan on taking frequent trips (especially by air), you might want to consider a heavy-duty bag that you can

buy separately, such as the Rover Gear Easton Travel Yard Bag (about $34).

Select the play yard yourself. Play yards are popular shower gifts; if you're planning to include one on

your registry list, consider the features you'll need and select the model yourself. If you'll be using the play

yard as a changing station, for example, go with a model with a changing table and multiple storage

compartments. Make sure any storage fastens to the outside and is positioned out of your baby's reach.

When it comes to changing table attachments, we prefer changing stations that don't flip to the outside, as

we believe that those that simply but securely attach to the top rails are safer. If you choose a model with a

bassinet, make sure it fastens securely and covers most of the top.

Be sure to check the floor pad. It should also be no more than 1-inch thick, snug-fitting, and firm

enough to protect your baby from falling or rolling into the loose mesh pocket that can form between the

edge of the floor panel and side of the play yard (a suffocation hazard). We think it's safer when models

have slots on the floor that allow the mattress's Velcro strips to be inserted and secured on the outside of

the play yard, making it difficult for a baby or toddler to lift the mattress and possibly become trapped

under it. Avoid models with a mattress that fastens to the bottom of a play yard only with Velcro pads that a

child can access from the inside. Use only the mattress or pad that comes with your play yard.

Think about the ‘look'. Some play yards feature understated and neutral color combinations that could

seemingly blend into the décor of any home. Others offer contrasting colors that make the play yard a

standout. Still others come in boy- or girl-specific color selections, such as pink polka dots. Your baby won't

care what the play yard looks like, but you might, so decide which way you want to go: neutral, high

contrast, or with fabrics that signify "baby zone."

The Baby Trend Playard - In the Jungle (about $77), for example, has a design with small multicolored

circles and a mobile with "jungle" animals, such as a lion.

The Chicco Lullaby Magic play yard has a muted, brown fabric and three little owls on its mobile, while the

Chicco Lullaby LX, mentioned earlier, is available in a range of solid colors, including pink.

Check the production date and packaging. Buy the play yard with the most recent date of

manufacture. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association certifies that some brands meet current

voluntary safety standards for play yards. This certification is not required by law and is not supervised by

any government agency. Still, we feel a JPMA certification sticker offers some assurance that a product

meets the safety standard. The play yard standard addresses design problems of earlier models, such as

inadequate locking devices or protrusions that can snag clothing and create a strangulation hazard.

These manufacturers make play yards/less-than-full-size cribs that carry the certification seal from JPMA:

AFG International, Baby Trend, Chicco, Delta Enterprise, Dorel/Safety 1st, Evenflo, Foundations

Worldwide, Graco, Joovy, L.A. Baby Products, Natart Juvenile/ALDI/TULIP, and Summer Infant.

Don't buy used. For safety's sake, don't use a hand-me-down or garage-sale play yard. Older models may

have a top-rail hinge that can collapse, forming a steep, V-shaped angle that puts children at risk of being

trapped or strangled. They may also have changing-table restraint straps that can form a loop beneath the

changing table, posing a strangulation hazard to a child in the play yard. For example, in 2007 the

Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a recall of 425,000 Kolcraft play yards for that reason.

And in January 2009, the CPSC announced a recall of 200,000 Fisher-Price Rainforest Portable Play Yards

manufactured by Simplicity Inc. and SFCA Inc. after 1,350 reports of side-rail collapse; injuries included

cuts, bruises, and broken bones. In the past, incidents of side-rail collapse have resulted in more serious

injuries and some deaths. Even if you plan to buy new, protect yourself by signing up for e-mail recall

notices at www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. And send in the registration card to the manufacturer to ensure that

you'll be informed of any recalls. Play yards are one of the 18 types of juvenile products that must, by law,

include pre-addressed, postage-paid product registration cards and an easy way to register your product

online. Manufacturers are forbidden from using or sharing the information you put on those cards for

marketing purposes.

Safety Strategies:

Although the voluntary standard for play yards has been regularly revised and tightened since

requirements were added in 1997 for automatically locking top rails and in 1999 for latch strength, play

yards were still responsible for an estimated 2,300 injuries to children in 2010, according to Consumer

Product Safety Commission's latest data.

Play yards have also been associated with 29 infant deaths due to suffocation, strangulation, or entrapment

from 2005 through 2007. Most of those deaths were due to positional asphyxia, where the infant becomes

wedged between the mattress and the side of the play yard. Children have also strangled while in their play

yards on nearby window-blind cords or suffocated in soft bedding such as blankets. Just as with a crib,

nothing should go in the play yard or bassinet attachment with the baby besides a fitted sheet meant to be

used with the floor pad that comes with the unit. That means no stuffed animals, bedding, or pillows.

http://www.cpsc.gov/en/newsroom/subscribe/

As with a crib, using a play yard can be a matter of life and death because babies can get themselves into

trouble even when they're sleeping. Here's how to keep your baby safe.

How to Choose:

• Choose a play yard with mesh holes smaller than one-quarter inch. The standard used for JPMA

certification includes this criterion.

• You don't need a sheet. Most play yard mattresses, which are thin, can be cleaned, and the bassinet is

safer without this extra piece of material, in which a baby could become entrapped. But if you do use one,

make sure it is tight-fitting and specifically made for the mattress or bassinet insert on your model. Never

use a sheet made for a crib mattress or twin or other size bed.

How to Use a Play Yard:

• Read and follow all safety precautions in the owner's manual and on the play yard.

• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly, and double-check that all latching features

and hinges on the play yard are in place and secure. Before using a play yard, confirm that all top rails and

the center floor are locked in position; the floor pad should also be in place. Never put your baby in a play

yard with the sides down. Keep your owner's manual for future reference.

• Inspect your play yard regularly and stop using it if the mesh sides or vinyl- or fabric-covered rails are

torn or punctured, or any rivets on the rails begin to protrude. Don't use a play yard with broken hinges. If

the mesh becomes torn, don't use tape to mend it; that is a choking hazard should the baby remove it.

• It's best to remove the bassinet and the changing station entirely, or if you have a hinged changing

station, at least be sure to flip it to the outside when your baby is playing in the play yard. A baby's neck can

become trapped between the side rail and the bassinet or changing station and children have died in play

yards when that has happened. Be aware that another child can flip a hinged bassinet back onto the play

yard while your baby is inside—another hazard.

• On some models, the safety straps on the changing-station insert can also be a strangulation hazard if

they form a loop beneath the changing table, which is another reason to remove a changing table when your

baby is in the playpen portion of a play yard. Check to see that your baby can't push down on the bassinet

or changing table insert because of the danger of strangulation and entrapment. Changing-table straps

should be sewn down or otherwise securely fastened to the changing-table surface, so that they cannot form

a loop that extends into the occupant area of the ply yard.

• If you use the bassinet, place your baby to sleep on her back, as you would in a full-sized crib.

• When you're using a play yard's changing table, always keep a hand on your baby and use the safety

harness.

• When your baby can pull to a standing position, remove large toys and other objects that can serve as a

step stool for climbing out of the play yard. If you see that he or she is a skilled climber in general, stop

using the play yard.

• Remove mobiles and toy bars when your child can roll over or push up on hands and knees so he can't

reach them and pull them down, due to the hazard of strangulation. If your child uses a play yard at a day-

care center or someone else's home, be sure it's a recent model, preferably manufactured in 2008 or later.

Also check its condition as you would any item your child might use. Visit Consumer Product Safety

Commission to make sure that model has never been recalled.

How Not to Use:

• Don't put two or more babies in a play yard that's designed for only one.

• Stop using the bassinet feature when your baby either reaches the manufacturer's recommended weight

limit or before she can sit up, pull up, roll over, or push up on hands and knees (at about 3 months or 15

pounds).

• Stop using the changing table insert when your child reaches the manufacturer's weight or height limit,

http://www.cpsc.gov/http://www.cpsc.gov/

which may be 15 to 25 pounds, 25 inches in height, or 4 months old, whichever comes first. It varies per

manufacturer so check your owner's manual.

• If you don't have an actual dedicated changing table, use a changing mat on the floor. Even then, keep

your eyes and a hand on your baby while changing him.

• Stop using the play yard once your baby has reached the maximum height and weight recommendations—

usually 35 inches and about 30 pounds.

• Don't move a play yard with your child in it.

• Don't tie any items across the top or corner of the play yard or hang toys from the sides with strings or

cords. They can be a strangulation hazard.

• Don't add a second mattress, pillows, or comforters to the play yard or bassinet feature. When your baby

is sleeping in the bassinet or play yard, remove all toys, too.

• Never leave your baby unattended in a play yard, which means your baby should always be in view, even

when he's sleeping in the bassinet or in the playpen area.

• Don't place a play yard near stoves, fireplaces, campfires, or sources of heat and wind, or close to heavy

furniture or a wall. Stop using a play yard, its changing table, or its bassinet if they are damaged. Don't try

to patch holes in the mesh with tape, for example.

• Don't use a changing table or bassinet with broken or missing attachment clips.

• Don't place a play yard near a window where your baby can reach cords from window blinds or curtains.

As we've noted, they're a strangulation hazard.

• Tents and insect netting are a potential entrapment hazard. Don't use them.

High Chairs

How to tell if its’ a safe high chair:

You’ll find all of the following in a safe high chair:

• Clear guidelines on how to use it. Age and weight suggestions vary from chair to chair, so the seat you choose should have these spelled out. In general, high chairs that recline are safe for use by the time a baby is four months old (when he’s ready to start solids, which usually happens between four and six months). Hook-on chairs are usually fine when a baby hits the six-month mark.

• Safety restraints. A high chair should have seat belts that secure your little one across the hips and between the legs to make it impossible for even an escape-artist-in-training to break free. The safety straps should also be adjustable, so you can keep using them (and you definitely should) as your baby grows.

• No sharp edges. Run your fingers around the tray and under the seat where your baby’s legs will dangle. It’s also smart to make sure the fabric on the seat has smooth seams. Not only will that mean a more comfy cushion for your baby, it’ll also decrease the chances of food getting stuck in crevices (yuck).

• Locking wheels. If the high chair can roll — even if there are just two rear wheels — you should be able to lock them so your baby can’t bust a move during mealtime.

• A wide base. This will make the chair more sturdy and harder to tip over if, say, you bump into it or your toddler tries to climb into (or out of) the high chair on his own.

• A strong clamp for hook-on chairs. These keep the seat level and prevent your baby from kicking the chair off the table.

• The JPMA seal. Along with the other types of baby gear it gives a thumbs-up to, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association certifies 17 high-chair manufacturers. This seal means the chair has met the organization’s high safety standards.

http://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/start-solids/http://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-gear.aspx

How to play it safe when your child’s in a high chair:

Follow these rules to keep your cutie secure during every feeding:

• Place your high chair far from walls, counters, and the dinner table. If the chair is too close to any of these, your baby can push his feet against the surface and tip the chair.

• Use all the safety straps every time. It’s never a pick-and-choose situation when it comes to securing your baby. And don’t think you can rely on the tray table to keep him locked in and safe in a high chair, either!

• Check that the chair is locked into place. Before you place your child in a high chair that you just unfolded, give it a shake to make sure it’s fully opened and stable.

• When your baby’s in a high chair, don’t let and older sibling climb on it. That extra weight may be enough to knock it over.

• Keep hot, breakable, and sharp stuff far out of reach. Yes, you've probably babyproofed the kitchen already, but be extra careful if your baby’s in a hook-on chair. His up-close position at the table means he can grab dishes, glassware, and utensils that can burn or cut him when you’re not looking.

Baby Swings

The lowdown on baby swings:

For many frazzled new moms and dads, a baby swing can be a lifesaver. These freestanding units imitate

the rhythmic rocking motion of the womb and work magic on some cranky babies. Not all of them love the

motion, though, so you may want to try out a friend's swing before you buy one.

Baby swings are most useful during your baby's first few months; weight limits usually go up to 30 pounds.

Still, most manufacturers recommend that you stop using a swing when your baby weighs between 15 and

25 pounds (depending on the type of swing), or appears to be able to climb out. A bigger or more active

baby could upend the swing, or send it skittering precariously around the floor.

A swing is no substitute for human contact, of course, so most experts recommend limiting swing time to

an hour or less a day when your baby's awake. (For more information, see our expert advice on how long

you can leave your baby in a swing.) But if your baby responds well to the rocking, a swing can provide you

with some much-needed quiet, hands-free time in that exhausting newborn period.

What to look for when buying:

Type: Baby swings range from basic, no-frills models to fully loaded entertainment centers. You can opt

for a smaller, more portable travel unit or a full-size swing, depending on your space availability and need

for mobility.

Battery or plug-in: Many baby swings are driven by a battery-operated motor; you'll be going through a

lot of batteries unless you find a model with a plug-in option. The motor emits a humming noise that

soothes some infants but startles others.

Safety harness: Full-size swings are required to have a fixed harness restraint system to prevent your

baby from slipping out of the swing seat. Swings with a 5-point harness, which includes over-the-shoulder

straps, are safer than those with a 3-point harness.

Speed and motion: Most swings rock head-to-toe, but some cradle versions offer a side-to-side rocking

motion that your baby may find more soothing. Some newer baby swing/bouncy-seat hybrids offer other

http://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/preparing-for-a-new-baby-siblinghttp://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/week-29/babyproofing.aspxhttps://www.babycenter.com/404_how-long-can-i-leave-my-baby-in-a-swing_10351368.bchttps://www.babycenter.com/404_how-long-can-i-leave-my-baby-in-a-swing_10351368.bc

types of motion like up-and-down “hops” or round-and-round circular moves. Swings may offer multiple

speeds (start at the lowest speed and vary it according to your baby’s preference).

Sturdiness: Look for a swing with a wide, sturdy frame that’s low to the ground so it won’t tip if your baby

leans to one side. It should also fold or disassemble easily for storage or travel.

Easy to clean: Drool, spit-up, and diaper overflow are common in your baby's early months, so go for a

seat with a removable, washable cover.

Comfort: Cradle-style swings have seats that recline far back, which is good for newborns. Whatever

swing you buy, check to make sure that the seat cushion is nicely padded.

Extras: Many swings come with trays, toy bars, mobiles, and even light displays and music. If the swing

has a tray, make sure that it's simple to take on and off so you can slip your baby easily in and out of the

seat.

Important safety notes:

Make sure your swing is assembled properly and won't tip over. Always supervise your baby in the swing,

and keep the safety harness buckled.

Check that any toys are securely and safely connected, since loose parts that your baby gets in his mouth

could cause choking.

Before buying a swing, check our product recall finder to make sure the model you're considering hasn't

been recalled. Look for a certification seal from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association on the

packaging, which means the model conforms to independent safety standards.

The new federal standard, which incorporates provisions in the voluntary standard ASTM F2088 - 12a,

requires the following:

• a stronger, more explicit warning label to prevent slump-over deaths. The warning advises

consumers to use a swing in the most reclined position until an infant is 4 months old and can hold

up its head without help;

• a stability test that prevents the swing from tipping over;

• a test that prevents unintentional folding;

• tests on restraint systems, which are intended to prevent slippage and breakage of the restraints

during use;

• the cradle swing surface to remain relatively flat, while in motion, and while at rest;

• electrically-powered swings to be designed to prevent battery leakage and overheating.;

• toy mobiles to be designed to ensure that toys do not detach when pulled;

• swings with seats angles greater than 50 degrees to have shoulder strap restraints; and

• dynamic and static load requirements to ensure that the infant swing can handle specified loads

without breaking.

What it's going to cost you:

Baby swings range from about $55 to $270.

https://www.babycenter.com/product-recall-finderhttp://www.jpma.org/http://www.jpma.org/

Car Seats

Using a car seat (child safety seat) is the best way to protect kids when traveling by car. Every state in the

United States requires that an infant or small child be restrained. And with good reason — unintentional

injury is the leading cause of death in children, and most such injuries are from automobile crashes.

Child safety seats can greatly reduce the risk of a potentially fatal injury, especially for babies but also for

toddlers. Yet many safety seats are used incorrectly. When choosing any car seat, following some general

guidelines will help ensure a child's safety.

The best car seat is not always the most expensive one — it's the one that best fits a child's weight, size, and

age, as well as your vehicle. Once you select a seat, be sure to try it out, keeping in mind that store displays

and illustrations might not show the correct usage. It's up to you to learn how to install a car safety seat

properly and harness your child for the ride.

If you need help installing your safety seat or would like a technician to check whether you've installed it

properly, the federal government has set up child car seat inspection stations across the country. Also,

many local health departments, public safety groups, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and fire

departments have technicians or fitting stations to help parents. (If you go to one of these locations, be sure

to ask for a certified child passenger safety technician.)

Guidelines for Choosing Car Seats:

• Choose a seat with a label that states that it meets or exceeds Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standard 213.

• Accept a used seat with caution. Never use a seat that's more than 6 years old or one that was in a

crash (even if it looks OK, it could be structurally unsound). Avoid seats that are missing parts,

are not labeled with the manufacture date and model number (you'll have no way to know about

recalls), or do not come with an instruction manual. Also, check the seat for the manufacturer's

recommended "expiration date." If you have any doubts about a seat's history, or if it is cracked or

shows signs of wear and tear, don't use it.

• If you accept a used seat, contact the manufacturer for recommendations on how long the seat

can safely be used and to find out if it's ever been recalled. Recalls are quite common, and the

manufacturer might be able to provide you with a replacement part or new model.

• Be sure to fill out the product registration card so you will be notified about recalls right away.

Infant-Only Seats (Birth to 22-35 Pounds):

Infant-only seats fit newborns and smaller infants best, so you will have to buy another seat as your baby

outgrows it. Infant-only seats are designed to protect babies from birth until they reach up to 35 pounds

(about 16 kilograms), depending on the model.

Infant car seats should always be installed to face the rear of the car. A child under age 2 is 75% less likely

to die or be seriously injured when in a rear-facing seat because the back of the safety seat will cradle the

baby's head, neck, and torso in a crash (at this age, a child's neck usually isn't strong enough to support the

head in a crash).

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants and toddlers ride in a rear-facing seat

until they're 2 years old or until they reach the maximum weight and height limits recommended by the

seat's manufacturer.

It's essential to follow the height and weight guidelines on the child safety seat and keep your child in a seat

that faces the rear as long as it's possible and the seat still fits.

Infant-only safety seats are convenient because they're designed to double as carriers, chairs, or rockers

when not used in the car. Many models detach right from the base, allowing you to leave the base installed

in the car.

Try to limit the amount of time your baby spends in this type of seat while you're at home or while the baby

is at childcare. Too much time in a car seat can limit a baby's movement and opportunities for stimulation,

which are important for developing sensory and motor skills.

How to Install an Infant-Only Seat:

Before installing your baby's infant-only seat, read the product manual thoroughly. These tips can help with

the installation:

• An infant-only seat should be placed in the back seat, ideally in the middle of the back seat, but

most important, in a position where it fits securely.

• Read the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out how to use its seatbelts with a child safety

seat.

• Use your knee to push down on the seat as you tighten the car's seatbelt through the belt path.

The car seat should not move more than 1 inch (3 centimeters) from side to side or forward and

backward at the belt path. If the seat wiggles or moves on the belt path, the belt needs to be

tighter.

• Some seatbelts may require a special locking clip designed to keep the belt from loosening.

Locking clips are available from baby product stores, safety seat manufacturers, and some car

dealerships.

• Be sure to check the tightness of the safety seat before each use.

• Never use an infant-only seat in a forward-facing position.

• The car seat should recline at no more than a 45-degree angle.

How to harness your infant:

• Read the entire child safety seat manual.

• Your baby's head should be at least 2 inches (6 centimeters) below the top of the safety seat.

• Infant-only seats are usually designed with a 3-point or 5-point harness. The harness should

always be placed in the slots and should always be at or below your baby's shoulders. Most

models have a chest clip that holds the harness straps together. Move the clip so the top of it is

level with your baby's armpits.

• All harness straps should fit snugly, especially over the shoulder and thigh areas. Straps should

always lie flat, never twisted. If you can pinch any harness webbing between your fingers, it's too

loose.

• Dress your baby in clothes that keep his or her legs free. This will allow you to buckle the latch

crotch strap properly between the legs. If it's cold outside, harness your baby first and then cover

him or her with a blanket (never cover your baby's head). Never buckle a blanket under or behind

the baby.

• If your baby slouches to one side in the seat (common with newborns), place rolled-up cloth

diapers or rolled hand towels on each side of the shoulders. There are supports specially designed

for car seats, but only use them if they came manufactured with your safety seat. Never place any

kind of padding or blanket under your baby — this can affect the harness's ability to restrain your

little one.

• If your baby's head flops forward (also common with newborns), check the angle of the seat. Use a

towel or blanket to tilt the seat back slightly (a 30- to 45-degree angle is best).

Convertible Seats

Convertible seats are designed to protect kids from birth up to at least 40 pounds (18 kilograms) facing

backward, and up to 65 pounds (30 kilograms) or even 80 pounds (36 kilograms) facing forward,

depending on the model.

Convertible seats are the only type of seats that are placed in different positions depending on a child's age:

They face toward the rear until a baby is ready to face forward, when they can be turned around and

"converted" to a forward-facing seat.

Weight ranges vary on convertible car seats, so it is important to consider a child's height and weight before

buying one. Convertible seats are heavy and not very portable. Yet they can be economical because it may

not be necessary to buy a separate infant-only seat. It's also a good option for larger babies who outgrow

their infant-only seat and still need to be rear facing.

If using a convertible seat, make sure it fits your child correctly — a small child in a large seat may not be

the best option. Models with tray shields should not be used for newborns — the shield comes up too high

on them, and in a crash the baby's face could hit the tray.

How to Install a Convertible Seat:

• An infant or small toddler should be placed in the back seat — preferably in the middle — and

must be facing toward the rear of the vehicle until 2 years of age or until reaching the maximum

weight and height limits recommended by the seat's manufacturer.

A child who reaches the height and weight limits before age 2 is safest in a bigger convertible seat

and kept rear facing. Kids who are small can remain in rear-facing seats even after age 2. (Follow

the manufacturer's guidelines for when to turn the seat.)

• Read the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out how to use your car's seatbelts or LATCH

(Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system with a child safety seat.

• Read the entire child safety seat manual. Be sure to check the recommended angle of recline for

the seat when it is forward facing and rear facing.

• Use your knee to push down on the seat as you tighten the car's seatbelt (lap-only or

lap/shoulder) or LATCH attachment belt through the child safety seat's belt path. The seat should

not move more than 1 inch (3 centimeters) side to side or forward and backward on the belt path.

If the seat wiggles or moves on the belt path, the belt needs to be tighter.

• Some seatbelts may require a special locking clip designed to keep the belt from loosening.

Locking clips are available from baby product stores, safety seat manufacturers, and some car

dealerships.

• Be sure to check the tightness of the safety seat before each use.

How to harness infants and toddlers:

• Read the entire child safety seat manual.

• Shoulder straps should be threaded through the lowest harness slots to best protect your baby.

They should be at or below your baby's shoulders.

• Convertible seats usually have one of three harness options: the 5-point harness, the tray shield,

and the T-shield. The 5-point harness offers the best protection for infants because it can tighten

to fit snugly and does not obstruct the baby's head. Both of the other harness options can cover a

baby's face and are not recommended for infants under 20 pounds (10 kilograms) or younger

than 1 year old.

• All straps should fit snugly, especially over the shoulder and thigh areas. Straps should always lie

flat, never twisted. If you can pinch any harness webbing between your fingers, it's too loose.

• Dress your baby in clothes that keep the legs free. This will allow you to buckle the latch crotch

strap properly between the baby's legs. If it is cold outside, harness your baby first and then cover

him or her with a blanket (but never cover your baby's head). Never buckle a blanket under the

seat straps.

• If your baby slouches to one side or the other in the seat (common among newborns), place

rolled-up cloth diapers or rolled hand towels on each side of the shoulders. There are supports

specially designed for car seats, but only use them if they came manufactured with your safety

seat. Never place any kind of padding or blanket under your baby — this can affect the harness's

ability to restrain your little one.

• If your baby's head flops forward (also common with newborns), check the angle of the seat. Use a

towel or blanket to tilt the seat back slightly (a 30- to 45-degree angle is best).

• Be sure to readjust harness straps as your child grows. Heavy clothing (such as a puffy winter

coat) should always be placed over your child after being harnessed in the seat. (A tip: After your

child is harnessed in the seat, slip his or her coat on backward for warmth.)

Forward-Facing-Only Seats (20-80 pounds):

• Forward-facing car seats are designed to protect children from 20 to 80 pounds (about 10 to 36

kilograms) or more, depending on the model.

• All kids 2 years or older, or those younger than 2 years who have outgrown the rear-facing height

or weight limit for their car seat, should use a forward-facing car seat with a full harness for as

long as possible. They should only switch to a booster seat that relies on the car's adult seatbelts

when they exceed the height and weight limit for their forward-facing car seat.

• Combination car seats are also available that allow you to remove the harness to switch from

forward-facing child safety seat to belt-positioning booster seat. Review the forward-facing

convertible seat for toddlers information mentioned earlier in this article regarding proper

installation of forward-facing car seats and harnessing your child.

• Built-in or integrated car seats can be found in some vehicles. As with other forward-facing car

safety seats, built-in seats are for kids 2 years of age and older. Some convert to belt-positioning

booster seats. Weight and height limits will vary so be sure to check your owner's manual.

The LATCH System:

• Since September 2002, most new vehicles have safety seat anchorage points and most safety seats

have anchor attachments.

• One of the problems with installing safety seats properly has been incompatibility between the car

seat and the vehicle. The Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system was devised

to make installation easier because it does not require use of the car's seatbelts.

• Instead, a tether strap secures the top of the safety seat to an anchorage point either on the rear

shelf area, the rear floor, or the back of the rear seat of the car, depending on the vehicle model.

Lower anchors secure attachments on the bottom of the safety seat to a point located between the

car's seat cushion and seat back.

• You should use LATCH only in seating positions recommended by both the vehicle manufacturer

and the car seat manufacturer. Never use both the seatbelt and LATCH to install a car seat.

Choose whichever method secures the car seat best.

• Most forward-facing safety seats made after September 1999 are equipped with top tether straps,

and most vehicles made after September 2000 have tether anchors. Since September 2002, most

new vehicles also have lower safety seat anchorage points and most safety seats have lower

anchor attachments.

• If your vehicle or safety seat was purchased after these dates and didn't come with tethers or

anchors, call the manufacturer.

Air Bags and Kids:

When combined with safety belts, air bags protect adults and teens from injury during a collision. They

have saved lives and prevented many serious injuries. But infants and children can be injured or even killed

if they are riding in the front passenger seat when an air bag opens.

Air bags were designed with adults in mind: They must open with great force (up to 200 miles per hour) to

protect an average-sized, 165-pound (75-kilogram) male from injury. While this force is appropriate for

adults and bigger kids, it can be dangerous for small children, possibly resulting in head and neck injuries.

Protect your baby or toddler from air bag injury by following these rules:

• Air bags present a serious danger for babies riding in rear-facing car seats. Never place a rear-facing

infant seat in the front seat of a car that is equipped with a passenger-side air bag.

• Child safety seats should be placed in the back seat. If you have no choice and must place a child in a

car seat in the front (that is, if your car is a two-seater or if the car seat will not fit in the back seat),

push the passenger seat as far back as it will go.

• A law passed in 1995 allows car manufacturers to install a manual cut-off switch that temporarily

disables a passenger-side air bag. As recommended by National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration, if you must place a child in a car seat in the front seat and your car has this cut-off

switch, disable the air bag for the duration of the ride. Be sure to switch the air bag back on when

you remove the car seat.

Infant Baths

Getting Started:

Most baby tubs are small, portable, and made of lightweight plastic, so you can put them just about

anywhere. Some are designed to rest inside or over a sink, while others are used inside an adult-sized

bathtub.

There are a lot of different tubs on the market, but you don't really need something super fancy. A good,

basic tub should have rounded corners and edges throughout, and should cradle your baby to keep her

safely in place.

No matter where you set up, the most important thing to remember is to stay with your baby and keep an

eye on her at all times so she never slips under the water. Can't reach the organic baby wash you just

bought? Forgot the towels in the other room? Just pick up the baby (she'll be slippery!) while you get what

you need. Never leave your baby alone in the tub. And don't ever pick up a portable tub with your baby

inside.

The Basics:

When you start shopping, remember that just about any tub you buy will be awkward to use at first, mainly

because bathing a squirming baby—who might be startled by temperature changes and by being put into

even very shallow water—is daunting for even the most experienced parent. In other words, you want to get

the job done quickly.

For a baby 6 months or younger who has limited head and neck control, buy a bathtub that has a contoured

design, allowing a baby who can't sit up yet to relax in a slightly upright position. Many come with an

internal sling that cradles a newborn in the water. A removable mesh or fabric cradle means your baby can't

move around too much, keeping him secure so you can gently wash him. A mildew-resistant foam lining is

also a plus. It's softer for a baby's head and body than hard plastic. To prevent mildew and soap-scum

buildup on any baby bathtub, clean it and let it dry fully after each use.

At about 6 months, when your baby can sit up, she'll probably be too big to be bathed in an infant tub and

you can move her to a bigger plastic child's tub that fits into your regular tub. (We recommend using a

nonskid rubber mat, even under an infant or child's tub, to keep it from moving around.)

There are "convertible" tubs on the market designed for newborns to toddlers (up to about 25 pounds).

Some convertible models also include the removable slings mentioned above, which you can take out when

your baby can sit up unassisted.

Another type has a crotch post to keep your baby from slipping forward in the water. When this type is

outgrown, your older toddler can move to a regular bathtub filled with a small amount of water. The

American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under 6 be watched carefully while in the

bathtub.

If you're short on space, you can buy an infant tub that folds. But keep in mind that you'll be using it for

only about six months. There are some models on the market that collapse completely, which is handy for

travel. If you're considering one of those, set it up to make sure it's sturdy before you put your baby in it.

A "whirlpool spa" might seem cute but you don't need anything that elaborate. Some of them come with a

showerhead nozzle that activates with a button—a good idea because keeping water running is a safety risk.

But a simple cup of water to rinse your baby off will do just fine. Don't buy a showerhead with a hose that

attaches directly to a faucet because it poses a scalding hazard. And don't buy an inflatable bathtub, bath

seat, ring, or bathing bucket even if your pediatrician or friends recommend it.

You might also see infant tubs that come with stands designed to save parents from the back pain that

might come with bending over to wash a baby. We think the safest place to wash your baby is in an infant

tub that fits in a sink or bathtub, or on the floor.

Expect your baby to protest the first couple of times. After that, she'll probably grow to enjoy bath time—

and so will you. But remember, when your baby is in the bath, keep a hand on her.

How to Give Baby a Bath Safely:

• Never leave your baby unattended during bath time, not even for a second, even when you're just filling

the tub with water. Plan ahead; make sure you have everything on hand before you start the bath. You don't

want to dash off for a washcloth or towel while your baby is in the tub. If he can't sit up on his own yet,

always keep a hand on him at bath time. And don't pick up the bathtub once the baby is in it.

• To play it safe, stay within arm's reach of your child whenever he's around water, even when he's in a

standard or toddler tub.

• Fill the tub with as little water as possible. Two inches is a good amount. Place the baby bathtub on a flat,

level surface that won't allow it to slip and makes it easy for you to handle your child. Don't add more water

while your baby is in the tub, and never put the baby bathtub in a larger tub that is filled with water because

it can float around and tip. If you're using an infant tub inside your bathtub, make sure the drain is open.

• Be careful to avoid scalding water. The water should feel warm, not hot. Before you put your baby into the

tub, test the temperature with your forearm. Don't rely on a tub with a temperature indicator, such as a

drain plug that changes color to indicate too hot, too cold, and just right. If you're using a thermometer

with a readout, baby bathwater should be between 90 degrees and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. But again, use

your forearm as your main guide.

• If you need to leave the bathroom, take your baby with you. Don't rely on older children to watch the baby

for you. If your phone rings, let it. If there's a knock on the door, ignore it. Make that rule as stringent as

strapping your baby into her car seat every time you drive.

• When using a baby bathtub in a sink or regular tub, always turn the hot water off first and watch out for

hot metal spigots. Get a cover for the bathtub's spout to protect your child from its heat-conducting metal

and hard edges. Some covers are soft plastic and come in the shape of an animal. Others are inflatable

plastic. Swoosh tub water around with your hand so that any hot spots even out. To play it safe, reduce the

setting of your hot-water heater to 120° F. An infant's skin burns much more easily than an adult's.

• Use washcloths instead of sponges. Either one will end up in your baby's mouth, but washcloths are safer

because tiny pieces of sponge can easily break off and become a choking hazard. And washcloths can go

through a washer and dryer so they get clean, while sponges have to air dry and can harbor harmful

bacteria.

• Always empty the bathtub immediately after bath time. A baby or child can drown in less than an inch of

water. And curious toddlers might go back in the bathroom when you aren't looking.

• When your baby graduates to a regular bathtub, attach rubber strips to the bottom to prevent slipping. Or

use a bath mat that can be secured to the bottom of the tub with suction cups, and check that it is securely

attached before you put the baby in. Keep in mind the underside of these mats can stay damp, attracting

mold and mildew, so you should take the mat out and scrub it thoroughly each time you clean the bathtub.

• Remind your partner, your baby's grandparents, and any other caregivers about these safety tips. Better

yet, if they're new to bath time, ask them not to give your baby a bath while you're away, if possible. They

can always use baby wipes and washcloths to handle any mess.

Baby Bouncer

A baby bouncer seat is a must have for baby's first year. They are perfect for amusing your baby and keep him or her safe for a little while. Baby bouncers are very popular as they are lightweight, can easily be used in multiple places and do not cost a lot. The fact that every year several thousands of infants get injured in a bouncer seat, shows that not all parents know how to use a bouncer correctly. Most of these injuries you can easily prevent if you just stick to the following safety rules.

8 SEAT SAFETY TIPS FOR USING A BOUNCER

1. On the label of the bouncer seat is a weight and height limit. Most baby bouncers are designed for babies that weigh between 18 and 30 pounds. A child that is able to sit on its own is too big for the bouncer.

2. The most dangerous thing to do is use a bouncer seat as a car seat. Bouncers should always be placed on a solid and steady surface, so the rocking movements won't make them tip over. Most accidents happen when bouncers are placed on a couch or table.

3. For better stability the base of the baby bouncer should be wider than the seat itself, but not so wide that it becomes something you may tip over.

4. Do not let your baby unsupervised in a baby bouncer even if you think he or she is asleep. 5. Before you first start using the seat check if it has any sharp edges that could possibly hurt

your baby 6. It is important they have a three point or preferably five-point harness to protect baby from

falling out of the bouncer 7. Make sure your baby cannot reach window cords, dangling lamp cords or heat sources like a

radiator or an oven. 8. Make safety your prime concern and look for the JPMA (Juvenile Product Manufacturers

Association) Certification Seal before buying a baby bouncer seat. FINDING THE BEST BABY BOUNCER If you are looking for the perfect bouncer seat than you will probably be amazed. The choice seems unlimited making it hard to pick one. Let's look at some bestselling products in each category.

BEST QUALITY BABY BOUNCER Without doubt Fisher Price is the big leader in producing high quality bouncer seats. Not only do they have eye catching, colorful designs but they all come with toys, songs and sounds and vibrations to sooth a baby.

Definitely, a favorite is The Fisher-Price My Little Snugapuppy Deluxe Bouncer which is ideal for newborns to babies of 6 months. WHEN TO STOP USING A BABY BOUNCER SEAT BABY BOUNCER AGE is from infancy to about 6 months. Once your baby can sit up unassisted or is over the weight limit stop using the baby bouncer seat because it may tip over.

(http://www.baby-safety-concerns.com/baby-bouncer-seat.html)

http://www.baby-safety-concerns.com/baby-bouncer-seat.html