Planning a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of getting ready for a new addition to your family. While color schemes are important, it is necessary to devote time to planning for the safety of your baby. If you begin planning your baby bedroom from a safety standpoint, you will have the best possible foundation to build on once you get to the fun aspects like the theme of the room.

The Crib

While many tired new moms might have a differing opinion, your baby will actually spend a lot of time sleeping. Between the amount of time they will sleep and the need for safety, you will want to inspect your baby’s crib before they are ever put in it.

• The Bars- The bars should be close enough together so that your baby can’t get any of their limbs stuck in between them. Make sure that there 2 3/8 inches or less in between the bars. If you have been gifted a crib make sure that there aren’t any missing bars; if there are, find a new bed for your baby.
• The Mattress- When it comes to mattresses you have two choices: spring inlay or foam. Foam mattresses are better because they are all one piece. In addition spring inlay mattresses can come apart and the springs can protrude and cut your baby.
• Sharp Edges- While it seems like a no brainer you do not want any sharp edges on your crib. Look at corners and in between knocks and crannies to make sure that there are not any screws or other pieces that your baby might come into contact with.
• Baby Bumpers- Baby bumpers are foam or pillow objects that go along the inside border of the crib where your baby sleeps. They must attach to the crib itself so that they stay in place. If the bumpers you are looking at do not attach, you should buy a different set. The bumpers will keep your baby away from the edge of the crib. Once they are big enough to climb on them it is time to take them out. On a related note, always put babies in the crib on their backs, because it allows their respiratory passages to stay open better.

The Changing Table

A changing table can be very helpful, considering how many diaper changes you are about to perform. There are many kinds of changing tables, from independent pieces of furniture to kits that convert a dresser top to a changing table. We recommend an independent piece of furniture, as some of the conversion kits can be low quality or unstable. Speaking of stability, the things you should look for in a changing table are:

• Stability- Make sure that the table is sturdy. Look to see that it can support a significant amount of weight, is not made of cheap materials and that it cannot easily be tipped over by a toddler who is using it to brace herself. Most often a wood changing table that has a solid foundation, as opposed to folding legs, is the most stable type of changing table you can buy.
• Shelving- Your changing table should give you everything that you need to change a diaper. It should have shelves or other storage spaces that will allow you to keep spare diapers, wipes and anything else that you might need in front of you. You do not want to have to turn your back on your baby to reach for anything. The table should also have a strap or belt that you can use to prevent your baby from falling.

The Finishing Touches

Ask some questions when you pick the furniture the theme and the colors of the room. You will want paint and furniture finishing that is low VOC or non-VOC. VOC’s are elements of paint and finishing that are emitted while the product dries and for some time afterward. These elements can be toxic, so it is obvious that you don’t want them in your baby’s room. As every parent knows, babies get into all sorts of strange places and like to put things in their mouths, so take precautions in advance to make sure that they don’t find harmful substances. Paint and finishing labels will have information stating that they are low or non-VOC or you can ask your salesperson.

As for toys and decorations, choose plush toys and ones that are too large to fit in a baby’s mouth. Look at packaging to make sure that the toy does not have any harmful elements (every parent has heard about toys with lead paint). Firmly secure wall decorations so that they will not fall and unless the baby is supposed to interact with them, put them out of their reach. We recommend shopping at baby oriented stores as their product lines are put together with babies in mind. You can find baby oriented retailers throughout Miami, but we bet you won’t have to venture too far out of Doral or Westchester.

If you have any questions about your child’s health or need emergency care for your baby contact Kendall Regional Medical Center. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-305-222-220.

Sources:
Discovery Health
Healthy Home Plans
Kids Health.org
Your Baby Today

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