Choosing a baby bed is not an easy matter because there are several criteria that need to be met. This is important to note, because choosing the right bed will not only make your little one sleep comfortably, but also avoid danger.
Babies should sleep in their own crib. The reason is, letting babies sleep in the same bed as their parents can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS.
Choosing a Safe Baby Bed
So that you don't make the wrong choice, here are some things to consider when choosing a crib:
1. Sturdy design
Choose a baby cot that has a sturdy design with side slats (barrier sides) that are not easy to raise or lower, so your little one doesn't fall off the side of the bed.
In addition, make sure that the distance between the blades is not too far, which is about 2.5 – 5 cm. This is important to prevent your baby's head from being tucked and trapped between the blades. Also make sure the bed base is made of strong material to prevent it from collapsing which can harm the little one.
2. Made of material quality and installed correctly
When buying a baby bed, make sure all the materials or materials used are of high quality. The blades, bolts, screws, nails, and other attached materials must be tight so that the crib can stand firmly.
For the safety of your little one, it is recommended to buy a new baby cot. If you want to use an old or used bed, make sure that the bed is no more than 10 years old.
3. The mattressspecially designed for babies
Make sure the mattress used is designed for babies. Special baby mattresses have a slightly firm or slightly cushioned cushion, so the springs will snap back into place as soon as the baby is placed on the mattress.
In addition to avoiding a mattress that is too soft, it is also recommended that you choose a mattress that is suitable for the size of the crib and that there should not be the slightest gap between the mattress and the slats. During installation, do not forget to remove the plastic.
Baby Bed Placement
After making sure that the crib is safe to use, you should place it in a safe position. It's best to put your little one's bed in your room. This is done so that you and your partner are always ready to hold your little one if at any time he cries or feels hungry.
In addition to a room, you should not place the baby's bed next to the window so that your little one avoids unwanted things, such as being hit by the iron supporting the curtain. Its placement near the window also risks getting your little one's neck wrapped in the curtain straps.
For maximum safety, do not place blankets, bed linen, soft pillows, or fluffy dolls on the bed. The reason is, these items may cover the little one's face when sleeping so that it can make it difficult to breathe and trigger SIDS.
Then, don't forget to check your little one's sleeping position regularly while he's in the crib. Make sure he sleeps on his back to avoid breathing difficulties that can lead to SIDS.
Choosing a bed for a baby is not easy because expensive is not a guarantee that the bed is comfortable and safe for your little one to use. So, before buying, pay attention to the criteria mentioned above so that you choose the ideal and right baby bed.
