How to make Kids Safe in Bassinets and Playards

Lately after many recalls on baby's cribs, bassinets, and other beds, parents often ask: what kind of bed is safe for my child to sleep and nap? I would like to concentrate on a few topics that parents could learn and make better decisions while shopping for a baby bed.

While shopping for crib or bassinet always look for certified models. Certification is indicated by a seal from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association- JPMA.

It is also a good idea to complete and mail in product registration cards so a company can contact you directly in the event of a recall. The most common defects in cribs or bassinets are:

- drop-side failures resulting from both hardware and crib design,

- slats and spindles could break too easily,

- the flaws create entrapment and suffocation hazards,

- faulty hardware, railings that are to low, posing a fall hazard

- mattress supports that leave a gap between the crib and the railing.

Staying up-to-date on recalls can help you to recognize unsafe products that can still be in circulation in stores and resale shops. Second hand, used cribs are not recommended!

There are many kinds of baby beds on the market, usually we make our decision depending on child's age, parents plans regarding siblings, lifestyle, budget, and features that we look for.

Baby bassinets, co-sleepers, and cradles are the most popular baby crib alternatives. You can use them safely for the first 5 or 6 months depending on your baby size and motor skills developed during that period. Important thing is to follow closely manufacturer's directions and recommendations. Baby crib alternatives make a great spot for your baby for many hours each day. It is also very convenient for parents or caregiver, easy movable around the house, because the light weight and sometimes wheels attached to it.

Baby bassinet, cradle, or co-sleeper are great accessories to build up the proper emotional bonding between the newborn and new parents, they give the opportunity to keep your infant close by. Another very important benefit, which helps newborns feel safer and secure in the smaller, cozy bassinet then in the big and airy crib.

Another option for traveling families is a packnplay, playard, or playpen.

According to Consumer Reports, Playards made by Graco and Kolcraft are one of the best rated for safety, portability, and easy to use features.

Packnplays are safe baby bed alternatives if you follow closely manufacturer's directions and recommendations. Some of them are:

- always follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly

- inspect your playard regularly

- stop using the bassinet feature when the baby reaches recommended weight or can sit up, pull up, roll over, or push up on his arms and knees

- stop using the playard feature ones the baby reaches the maximum height and weight, usually 35 inches and 30 pounds

- chose a model with mesh holes smaller then one-quarter inch. Those that are JPMA certified will meet this standard

- don't tie any items or hang toys from the sides with string or cords; these can be a strangulation hazard

- when you put the baby to sleep, remove all toys, extra blankets, and pillows.

Packnplays are very convenient products for you and comfortable for your baby. Infants don't feel safe and secure in big, traditional, and airy cribs from the beginning. First they need smaller, cozy, spots to nap and night time sleep. New packnplays are perfect models to fulfill your newborn's natural needs. Packed with features make parenting easier right from the beginning! They are great entertaining centers that your baby will love. They will help to develop baby's needs to explore in many areas of his or her personality.

Parents, make wise decisions to keep your children safe in beds, use your judgment and experience. I hope my article will help some parents in their choices.



By Barbara Argasinski.

J.B.Argasinski is a Child Psychologist with interests centered around baby's developmental stages, kids safety, and appropriate accessories to stimulate the proper growth.

You can access resources, and more information about Baby Bassinet, Co-sleeper, Cradle collection at: bassinet We offer a wide selection of baby crib alternatives, that can fit into your needs and budget.

Resources at http://www.strollernstuff.com