The number of different crib types available can often be overwhelming. There are sleigh, convertible, mini, wooden and rocking cribs to name a few. Some of the most popular baby cribs are those that convert into a toddler bed. Buying this type of crib is an economical decision allowing baby to use the same bedding for years to come. Other types of convertible baby cribs allow the crib to be attached next to the parent’s bedside for co-sleeping arrangements. This style of crib is often a popular choice among attachment parenting supporters, who believe that baby is better off sleeping with mom and dad for the first few months of life.

Some of the newest version baby cribs have the capability of ‘rocking’ your newborn to sleep. This can be an exceptional plus when trying to get a colicky baby to sleep. Keep in mind however, when considering this style of crib that eventually baby will outgrow the rocking crib and have to move to an ordinary bed. The transition might be a little disconcerting at first. Babies develop habits early on, and a baby who learns how to fall asleep with rocking will likely require some type of soothing mechanism in order to fall asleep in the years to come.

No matter the type of baby crib you decide on, there are certain important safety factors you should take into consideration before purchasing. These include the following:

• Never buy a “used” crib unless you are certain that it is in quality shape and has all the parts. If you are missing a part, you might be able to order spare parts from the manufacturer. NEVER, EVER try to force a crib so that it works without the spare parts. Your baby’s life can be in danger. Many an infant has been critically injured or suffocated because of a collapsed crib. Most manufacturers and organizations recommend purchase of a new crib to ensure the safety of your newborn infant.

• Make sure that all slats are placed no more than 2 3/8 inches apart

• Ensure that the mattress fits snugly into the crib, so that there is no more than a two finger width space differential between the edge of the
mattress and the side of the crib

• Corner posts should be no higher than 1/16 of an inch to prevent
entanglement or suffocation

• Screws and bolts should all be secure

Some other considerations when you are searching for baby cribs include how secure the drop side latches are. You want to be certain that they are strong enough to prevent baby from accidentally unlatching them. Also, when setting up your baby crib, be certain not to fill the babies bed with extra blankets or stuffed animals. Such items also pose a suffocation risk, especially during the first four months of baby’s life when SIDS is a risk factor. Lastly, be certain that you do not place the crib within reach of any hanging objects that baby might accidentally grab onto and pull down.

Many parents often look for a colorful mobile to attach to the rail of their baby crib. This is a fine idea, and can provide your baby with hours of stimulating entertainment. Just be certain that you remove the mobile by the time baby is sitting up, so that she doesn’t accidentally pull the mobile down or become entangled in any loose strings.
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1. Do not co-sleep if you have been drinking alcohol, using drugs, have been taking prescribed or over the counter medicines that cause you to feel sleepy, or if you are extremly exhausted.

2. Ensure there are no gaps between the mattress and the footboard and headboard as these are places that your baby can become trapped.

3. Do not sleep in a bed with rails if your baby is under the age of one as your baby can become wedged.

4. Do not place the bed againest a wall or furniture as your baby can become trapped.

5. If you have long hair, then tie it back to prevent it from becoming wraped around your baby’s neck.

6. Do not allow older siblings to sleep in the same bed as a young baby as there is a risk of the sibling rolling on the baby.

7. Don’t co-sleep if you have a waterbed.  The surface of a water bed is different to that of a mattress and can cause suffercation if the baby were to roll on to there front in the night.

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PROS

* If you work during the day it gives you extra time to spend with your baby.

*If your baby knows that you are there while they sleep, it will help them to feel safer enabling them to sleep sounder.

* It can help to create a strong bond between you and your child.

* It’s more benefical for mothers who are breastfeeding, causing less disruption to sleep.

* Your baby may sleep for longer periods during the night.

Cons

*You may not sleep as well with your baby next to you.

*It may be harder to move your baby to a cot when your baby is older.

* It may be hard for your baby to fall asleep when looked after by some one else if they  become used to falling asleep at your side.

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1. The ability to lift the mattress higher and lower.  Having the mattress set higher for newborn babies can make taking lifting your baby in and out of the cot a whole lot easier on your back.  But remember when your baby starts to sit up you will need to lower the mattress.

2. A dropside mechanisum.  Look for a cot which is easy to operate with one hand.   Some models have the added convenience of a drop side that slides completely out of the way, i.e. right under the cot. This allows you to position your baby’s bed up against the edge of your bed.

3. Lockable swivel casters.  These can make moving the cot around much easier, but remember to lock the casters when your baby is in the cot.

4. Teething rails.  A teething rail can come in really handy for your child when they are a bit older.  They can have something to chew on without causing any damage to the cot.

5.  Ensure that the mattress you choose for your cot fits with no gaps around the edge.

6. The cot bars.  Ensure the bars of the cot are no wider than 45-65 mm apart.  If a soda can can pass through the bars then they are too far apart.

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1. Provide the right bedding. Use a  firm baby mattress free of any toys that could cause a blockage of your baby’s airways.  Do not use a pillow and do not use a duvet for baby’s under one.  If you are using a crib bumper ensure that it is tied securely. 

2.Place your baby on there back, not there stomach, with there feet to the bottom of the cot.

3.Ensure that baby’s blankets are pulled no higher than baby’s shoulders and tucked in firmly.

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5.The safest place for your baby to sleep is in their cot. Never co sleep if:

Either parent is a smoker (even if you don’t smoke at home).

Either of you have been drinking alcohol or have taken drugs or medication which might cause drowsiness.

Either of you is very tired.

Your baby was premature or low birth weight (less that 2.5kg or five and half pounds).

Your baby is under 3 months old.

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