Bassinet Safety 101

11/26/2015 11:03
As new parents, the task of choosing a bassinet can sometimes present an overwhelming variety of options. But, one of the primary concerns bassinet safety can effectively narrow those choices down to something manageable. 
 
So let’s get down to some baby bassinet safety basics so you can choose your newborn’s bassinet with confidence. Most well-made baby bassinets conform to bassinet safety standards and beyond but there is no replacement for being sure.
 
There are three major factors to consider as far as bassinet safety.
 
  1. Stability
 
First impressions can help there. Feel the bassinet and give it a gentle shake. Does it feel wobbly? If so, what part is shaking? Check the base and be sure the bassinet is hooked securely to the stand.  There should be some locking mechanism to ensure stability if the bassinet is removable and taken on and off the stand. If there are casters or rollers are they secure? Is the material the bassinet is made from of excellent quality? Do the wheels have locks? It might seem small but a safety lock is an vital part of bassinet safety. Looks parts or sharp edges obviously are no-nos when it comes to bassinet safety. Make sure the bassinet you have chosen has a wide base
 

    2.    Interior of the Bassinet

Bassinet mattress safety is crucial. Mattresses in baby bassinets should be firm but not hard, you don’t want the baby sinking into the mattress material on one hand, but you don’t want them being uncomfortable. 
 
Too soft a bassinet mattress presents a safety concern.  The sides of the bassinet are also a safety concern. Ensure that they are covered and there is nothing sharp or angular that baby might brush or bump up against. 
 
The bassinet mattress should fit securely within the bassinet frame with only about 2 fingers space between the bassinet mattress and the sides. Too snug a fit can make changing the sheets in the bassinet hard, but too loose a fit and the bassinet becomes less safe for your newborn.
 
    3.    Bassinet Bedding
 
Bedding for the baby bassinet is vital for the infant’s comfort as well as for the looks of the bassinet but there are some common mistakes in choosing bedding that can present safety hazards in a bassinet.  
 
Materials for bassinet bedding should of course be flame retardant. Read the marks. Soft and fluffy pillows and heavy or soft comforters might look gorgeous but they are for decoration only for the newborn. 
 
Make sure the bedding in the bassinet is comfortable but not heavy or too “fluffy”.  Newborns can’t go a cover aside or even roll away from a bumper pad which restricts their air. The lighter weight choices are safer.
 
Common sense and checking a few key factors can ensure your new bassinet will be safe and comfortable for your baby.