Provided by: Jorbins.com Online Magazines - Baby
Parents need to use a different eye for detail when shopping for baby furniture. Instead of color, style and comfort, safety should be the number one requirement.
Cribs
If you can fit a soda can in between the slats then the slats are not close enough together and a baby could get their head stuck.
You should not be able to fit more than one or two fingers between the mattress and crib. Any more than that and the baby could suffocate.
Use sheets that fit securely. You do not want them too loose or too tight. Spend the extra few dollars for sheets that fit right. Some of the more inexpensive sheets are too large or shrink.
Make sure only two of the cribs legs are on castors. You do not want the crib to be easily jarred.
Don't put it close to heaters, windows or electrical outlets.
Don't hang anything nearby where there is a danger of the item falling into the crib.
Keep the crib uncluttered. Leave out the pillows, stuffed animals and everything else. Put the baby monitor on the dresser out of reach. If you must use a blanket make sure it is lightweight. Do not use heavy blankets or comforters.
High chairs
Get a sturdy design that doesn't rock easily.
Get a full body safety harness to keep the child strapped in.
Find a tray that can't be moved by the child.
Always use the five-point body harness restraint.
Always supervise the child.
Keep the chair away from appliance cords, curtains and anything else the child could grab.
Changing tables
A changing table should have roll-off protection, such as raised edges.
A changing table should have a waist strap.
There should be no gaps that could injure fingers or toes.
Be sure and keep one hand on the child at all times.
Keep in mind, even if your baby furniture meets every safety standard and suggestion you still need to be vigilant and supervise.