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Ensuring crib bumper safety

Crib bumpers are used in cribs to keep the infant from bumping his/her head into the rails of the crib, and to prevent him/her from possibly getting their heads stuck in between the rails. However, the research on SIDS, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, has made crib bumper pad safety an issue that needs to be considered when placing a crib bumper in a crib.

Many healthcare organizations are now saying that the need for crib bumpers no longer exists as crib railing has now been standardized to ensure that the rails are placed close enough together to prevent a baby from getting his/her head stuck between them. Specifically, organizations involved with SIDS research have gone on record as saying that crib bumper pad safety cannot be assured and that it would be best not to use them at all. In addition, they state that the crib bumpers can cause suffocation and even death.

However, many parents like the way the crib looks with a crib bumper, or they fear that their infant may get his/her arms or legs stuck between the crib rails. If a parent does decide to use a crib bumper there are a few things they can do to make it safe.

Installing the crib bumper correctly is of primary importance. You must make sure that the corners are securely attached and that it is tied down with at least six safety straps. The bumper pad should fit tightly and securely around the entire perimeter of the crib. The bumper pad should be removed when the infant is able to stand up in their crib.

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