The 3 things that belong in the crib are (1) a firm mattress, (2) a tight fitting sheet and (3) your beautiful baby. Keep these things OUT of the crib: pillows, quilts, comforters, stuffed toys, bumper pads and other soft items. Be sure your baby’s crib is in a smoke-free place. Do not place the crib near draperies or blinds where your baby could become entangled and strangle on the cords. Babies should sleep in a safe crib. Your baby’s mattress should be firm, and snugly fit the crib. The space between the mattress edge and crib frame should not be more than the width of two of your fingers. Cover the mattress with a fitted bottom crib sheet. Avoid too many blankets. Consider clothing your baby in a sleeper instead of a blanket. If you do use a blanket, place your baby so that his feet are at the foot of the crib. Tuck a thin blanket around the crib mattress, covering only as high as your baby’s chest. Avoid overheating. Never cover your baby’s head with a blanket. Keep your baby at a temperature that feels comfortable to you, about 68 to 72 degrees F. Do not overdress your baby. Watch for these signs that he is too warm: sweating, damp
hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, rapid breathing. Safety first: Check the batteries in your smoke alarm. A good time to do this is when the time changes to daylight savings time. Always place your baby on his back when he is in his crib.

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