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Nursery Equipment Safety Checklist - Topic Overview

The following safety guidelines are adapted from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). They are for various equipment found in nurseries, both at home and in child care settings.

Back carriers

All back carriers should meet the following safety standards:

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Leg openings are small enough to prevent child from slipping out.

Leg openings are large enough to prevent chafing.

Frames have no pinch points in the folding mechanism.

Carrier has padded covering over metal frame near baby's face.

Note:

Do not use a framed back carrier until the baby is 4 or 5 months old, when his or her neck is able to withstand jolts and not sustain an injury.

Bassinets and cradles

All bassinets and cradles should meet the following safety standards:

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Bassinet/cradle has a sturdy bottom and a wide base for stability.

Bassinet/cradle has smooth surfaces-no protruding staples or other hardware that could injure the baby.

Legs have strong, effective locks to prevent folding while in use.

Mattress is firm and fits snugly.

Wood or metal cradles have slats spaced no more than 2 3/8 inches (60 mm) apart.

Note:

Follow the manufacturer's guidelines on weight and size of baby who can safely use these products.

Carrier seats

All carrier seats should meet the following safety standards:

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Carrier seat has a wide, sturdy base for stability.

Carrier has nonskid feet to prevent slipping.

Supporting devices lock securely.

Carrier seat has crotch and waist strap.

Buckle or strap is easy to use.

Note:

Never use the carrier as a car seat unless it is labeled for that purpose.

Changing tables

All changing tables should meet the following safety standards:

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Table has safety straps to prevent falls.

Table has drawer or shelves that are easily accessible without leaving the baby unattended.

Note:

Do not leave a baby on the table unattended. Always use the straps to prevent the baby from falling.

Cribs

All cribs should meet the following safety standards:

Check if meets standards

Slats are spaced no more than 2 3/8 inches (60 mm) apart.

No slats are missing, loose, or cracked.

Mattress fits snugly-no more than two finger-widths between edge of mattress and crib side.

Mattress support is securely attached to the headboard and footboard.

Corner posts are no higher than 1/16 inch (1.5 mm).

Top edges of headboard and footboard have no cutouts.

Drop-side latches cannot be easily released by baby.

Drop-side latches securely hold sides in raised position.

All screws, bolts, and other hardware are present and tight.

Note:

Do not place crib near draperies or blinds. A child can strangle on window cords or fall through screens. When the child reaches 35 inches (90 cm) in height, he or she has outgrown the crib and should sleep in a bed.

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WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 26, 2009

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.