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(HealthDay News) -- Looks aren''t everything, especially when you''re choosing a crib for baby-to-be. Cribs must also be functional and safe. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, parents should buy a crib with bars no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. Otherwise, the baby could slip through or strangle himself between the bars. If getting a new crib isn''t an option and the bars are too far apart, put a cloth between the bars to shrink the empty space. The mattress should fit tightly, or the infant could become wedged between the mattress and the side of the crib. If the mattress is too small, be sure to place towels between the mattress and the sides. When the child gets older, remove the bumpers, pillows and toys from the sleeping area, as the child can step on them to climb out of the crib and fall.
Last Updated: Nov. 7, 2005 |