Safety Guidelines & Requirements

Bedding:

• Infant should always sleep in a crib which meets current federal and ASTM standards.
• Choose a firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib.
• Select bumper pads that fit around the entire crib and tie or snap securely into place.
• Use bumper pads only until the child can pull up to a standing position. Then remove them so the baby cannot use the pads to climb out of the crib.
• Mobiles should also be removed when baby can pull himself/herself up.
• Never place infants to sleep on pillows, sofa cushions, adult beds, waterbeds, beanbags, or any other surface not specifically designed for infant sleep.

(Under 12 Months)

• Normal, healthy infants should always sleep on their backs unless otherwise advised by a pediatrician.
• Only a fitted sheet, mattress pad, and/or waterproof pad should be used under baby.
• Remove pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, pillow-like stuffed toys, and other pillow-like products from the crib.
• Cover baby with a thin covering, such as a crib blanket, receiving blanket of other blankets specifically designed for infants, only reaching as far as baby’s chest, and tuck the covering around the crib mattress. For newborns, consider swaddling.
• Do not overdress the baby. Consider using a sleeper or other sleep clothing as an alternative to any covering.

Crib:

• Make sure there are no missing or loose screw and that all brackets on the crib and mattress support are properly installed.
• Always keep the drop side up when your baby is in the crib.
• The crib mattress should fit firmly, including the sides of the crib.
• Do not purchase a crib that has cutout areas on the headboard or footboard. This can pose a danger to the head, hands, and feet.
• If setting up a previously used crib, check for cracked or peeling paint and repair as needed. Also check for splinters or rough edges and repair as needed.
• Teething rails that are damaged should be fixed, removed, or replaced.
• Look for the JPMA Certification Seal.
• Do not place the crib near windows. Drapery and blind cords pose an entanglement hazard.

Toys & Pacifiers:

• Remove toys and rattles from the crib when baby is sleeping or unattended.
• Make sure the pacifier’s protective shield has ventilation holes and will not fit inside the baby’s mouth.
• Check pacifier frequently for tears.
• Never string a pacifier, or any other item, around the baby’s neck.

Other Safety:

• Always maintain direct supervision of baby when juvenile products are in use.
• Always read and follow all of manufacturers’ instructions before using a new product.
• Second-hand products are not recommended for use by babies. However, if it is imperative to use these older products, make sure they have all safety features outlined in the www.jpma.org safety guide for juvenile products.
• Frequently inspect products missing hardware, loose threads/strings, and holes/tears.