When do I need to take bumpers off my baby’s crib?
For safety reasons, it is not recommended that you use bumpers on your baby’s crib at all. This is because bumper pads can increase the risk of a baby suffering from suffocation, strangulation, and getting stuck in painful positions in the crib. In addition, once your baby is able to pull herself up, she may use the bumpers to assist in climbing over the crib, which is another major safety concern. Instead, make sure that the bars along the crib are 2 3/8 inches apart so that your baby’s body cannot fit in between the bars. This is about the width of a soda can. Also, use a firm mattress and make sure there is no space between the mattress and the crib bars. Keep other loose objects, including blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals, out of the crib as well. Make sure to follow all crib safety guidelines to ensure a healthy and peaceful night sleep.
About Dr. Sonia Rubens