Before you welcome your baby home, you'll want to have everything in place. That means getting the big 4 baby gear items: car seat, crib or bassinet, stroller, and -- if you're planning ahead -- high chair. These tips will show you how to make smart, safe choices.
Have the Car Seat Ready
Your baby needs to ride home from the hospital in a car seat, so install ahead of time. Newborns should ride in rear-facing car seats. Follow installation instructions, or find a child safety seat inspection station for help. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration web site lists stations, or call 888-327-4236. The middle of the backseat is the safest spot to install the seat.
Types of Rear-Facing Seats
Infant-only seats are smaller than regular baby seats. The seat may come out of the base and have handles so you can use it to carry the baby. Convertible seats can be used rear-facing and then changed to forward-facing when your child gets older. They do not have a separate base or carrying handles. The safest way for a baby to ride is rear-facing until they are at least 1 year old and weigh at least 20 pounds. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to keep their toddlers in rear-facing car seats until age 2, or until they reach the maximum height and weight for their seat.
Safe Crib Checklist
Buy a new crib rather than using a hand-me-down to be sure it's up to the latest safety standards. Federal safety standards, for example, prohibit the manufacture or sale of drop-side cribs. You can check with the Consumer Product Safety Commission to see if your crib has been recalled and for information on risks from these products. Other things to check about your crib: No missing, broken, or loose parts. All moving parts run on track, smoothly. No more than 2 3/8 of an inch (less than a soda can width) between the crib's slats. The top of corner posts should be out of a child's reach or should be less than 1/16 of an inch high so he can't get clothing caught.
Buying a Crib Mattress
You may be surprised that you have to purchase a mattress separately. Get a firm one that fits snugly into the crib -- a space greater than two fingers' width between the mattress and crib frame means that you need a bigger mattress. To reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), only use a fitted bottom sheet made for crib use, and keep the crib free of smothering hazards -- pillows, blankets, pillow-like bumper pads, and stuffed toys.
Tips on Buying and Using Bassinets
Some parents prefer to use a bassinet at first. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends choosing one certified for safety by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). Look for a sturdy bottom with a wide base; smooth surfaces; legs with locks; and a snug-fitting mattress. Just as you would with a crib, make sure there are no pillows, quilts, comforters, blankets, pillow-like bumper pads, or stuffed toys in with baby.
Which Stroller Is Right for You?
Standard strollers usually feature reclining seats, cup holders, trays, and under baskets. Some have a seat that doubles as a carrier and fits your car seat to ease transfers. There are also lightweight strollers which can be less to handle. Check the size and weight requirements -- many lightweight strollers may not work for babies under 3 months old. The JPMA also certifies strollers for safety; look for their seal on boxes.
Stroller Safety Tips
Always strap your child in, even if your journey is a short one. You can choose a stroller with a T-strap or a 5-point restraint (with shoulder belts). Make sure the leg openings are small enough that an infant won't slide through. Don't hang a purse or baby bag on the stroller handles; that could make the stroller tip over backward.
When Baby's Ready for a High Chair
If your baby is sitting up and eating solid foods, then a high chair is essential. Select one with a wide base that won't tip easily. Look for easy-to-use straps, and always strap your baby in using both the waist belt and the strap between the legs. Don't rely on the tray to restrain your baby -- it's for holding food, not your child. Make sure your baby stays seated (no standing up) and never leave her alone in the high chair.
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