Security is the key factor when buying baby equipment. When buying baby cribs for instance, run your fingers over the furniture and touch every spot which will likely come in contact with the infant. Beware of rough surfaces and parts that can heat up when exposed to sunlight. Examples of these are hinges, springs and moving parts. These are the same parts where baby’s hands, feet and fingers can get caught.

Make sure that the mattress fits snugly. If you can fit two fingers between the mattress and the side of the crib, your baby’s head could become wedged. Roll a towel and put it in the open space. The slats of the crib should be less than 2 and 3/8 inches apart so the baby’s head cannot get caught between them. A safety latch should secure the movable side. Curious older children might unwittingly pull down the access side and a terrible accident might happen.