When a family is expecting a new baby, planning and executing your baby nursery decorating ideas can be a wonderful way to bond with your baby before he or she arrives. It is easy to get caught up in the many beautiful baby products available in today's marketplace.
What kind of crib should you buy?
What baby nursery colors will you select?
Do you need a humidifier?
So many questions and what might seem like not enough time. But before you begin shopping, educate yourself on baby nursery safety. Feel confident that your choices will be healthy for your child.
Baby Crib Safety
Be sure that the crib is in good shape, and is fairly new (to avoid potential for lead paint). Antique cribs should be avoided. Check the crib for sturdiness and look for any loose pieces.
Measure the space between the slats. The gap should be no more than 2-3/8 inches. Also, make sure there are no slats missing.
Also, check the rail height. To do this, lower the mattress to its lowest position and raise the sides of the crib. Then, measure from the top of the side rails down to the mattress support, to ensure there is at least 26 inches between the two.
Although cut-outs in the head or foot of the crib are decorative and very beautiful, put baby safety first and avoid cribs that have them. A baby's head can get trapped in the open spaces.
Check the four corner posts to make sure they are even with the end panels. They can be as much as 1/16th of an inch above the end panels, but no more. This lessens the risk of baby's clothing catching which could be a strangulation hazard.
Is all the hardware included? If there is any hardware missing, pass on this crib and move on to the next.
Is the crib already assembled? Most likely it is, but if not, be sure there are instructions for assembly and check to make sure all the pieces are included.
Buying a New Baby Crib
If you plan to shop new, consider a
natural baby crib
made of out natural wood. Discover more baby nursery decorating ideas for an
organic baby nursery.
to learn more about the benefits of an organic baby nursery.
More Baby Nursery Decorating Ideas for Safety
Once you choose a crib, make sure you check this safety list so your baby can sleep safely.
Place the crib in the room away from all windows. Window blinds and curtain cords can get tangled around baby's neck.
Check the mattress itself. It should fit snugly into the crib. If there is a gap between the crib and the mattress large enough for you to fit two fingers, it is not safe. Do not stuff the gap with a blanket. You need a new crib or mattress.
Avoid using quilts, blankets or pillows in baby's crib.
Do not create your own waterproofing by using garbage bags or dry-cleaning bags. They can stick to baby's face, cutting off breathing.
Install a smoke detector in baby's room or in the hallway outside the room. Replace the batteries every 6 months.
Of course on key to baby nursery safety has nothing to do with furniture or accessories, but you. Be sure to always put baby to sleep on his or her back.
Your baby nursery decorating ideas are just part of the many things you contemplate when expecting, but they can be one of the most important. By putting baby safety first as your priority, you will create a welcoming oasis for your baby that they can enjoy in the years to come.
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