Cribs are involved in more infant deaths every year than any other kids furniture. Know what to look for when purchasing a crib.

First check the corner posts on the crib. The best option is corner posts that are flush with the headboard and footboard. At most, they should extent 1/16” above the top. They should not be long enough for clothing worn to get hooked on.

Check that the mattress support hangers can be fully secured to the frame by either bolts or closed hooks. Regularly check the crib’s hardware to make sure none of it has loosened something that can happen with a child bouncing on the mattress.

If you’ll be using bumper pads, check them out carefully to have the following features: tie or snap in place, fit all the way around the crib, have straps in each corner, in the middle of the sides along the open rails and should also have ties at the top and bottom edges. (Be sure to remove the bumper pads when your child can stand in the crib. Otherwise they might use the pad as something to step on if they want to climb out of the crib.)

Once you get the crib and mattress home, throw away all plastic. Never use any part of the plastic, including the bag covering the mattress, as the plastic could suffocate your child.

Due to the potential of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), use a firm, flat mattress in the crib and lay your baby on their back. Instead of using a blanket that can get wrapped around the baby, use a one-piece sleeper with legs and arms.

When arranging the baby furniture in the nursery, keep the crib away from any window. Any windows that have blinds or draperies also have cords that could cause strangulation. And the screen of an open window is not strong enough to prevent a child from falling out.

If you put your baby to bed with a pacifier or teether, don't tie it around their neck. When you are ready to put your baby down to sleep, there should be nothing around their neck including bibs and necklaces.

Make sure the side rail is fully locked when raised. Put the mattress in its lowest position once your child can stand in the crib by itself. Remove anything that they could possibly stand on to try and climb out including any stuffed animals or toys.

Climbing out anyway? Then keep the side rail down. It’s a lot less further to fall than if the side rail is up.

And finally, keep in mind that any baby toy/mobile/gym that stretches across the crib is wonderful for your infant but can become a strangulation hazard once your baby gets older and more active.

The birth of a baby is always a special occasion, and many people want to help the new parents out by buying baby gift baskets for the new family. The possibilities are almost endless, and there is an unlimited list of things a young family will appreciate. If you look online, you will find a wide range of baby presents. Many of the standards are available, along with some unique gifts you may not have considered. You know the new family best, so keep them in mind when you shop for baby presents.

For new parents, they may need the basics first and foremost. You can find large ticket items are something you shouldn’t buy without asking first. Some parents buy all of that stuff well in advance of the birth, and a duplicate would be a huge waste of money on your part. There are other basics that you can buy as baby gift baskets that the parents will always need. These would include shampoos, lotions, diapers, and clothes. These things are always needed, and it is almost impossible to have too much of any of these baby presents. For something a little more unique, consider creating your own basket full of baby gift baskets. Buy a large basket and fill it with small things that every new parent needs. Besides, shampoos and lotions, you might buy baby powder, diaper rash cream, clippers, tiny booties, or bibs.

When buying baby baskets, you don’t have to buy just for the newborn. Parents will also appreciate things the baby will need in a few months or even in a year. Buy some diapers in larger sizes, or clothing for a six-month-old baby. These are great baby gift baskets for the simple reason that so many parents get stuff for a newborn, but the baby quickly grows out of everything. Other unique ideas for baby presents include a special made quilt or afghan. These can be made in any color or size, and will be loved by the new parents. These are especially great if the new family lives where there is a cold winter each year.

When buying baby gifts for an established family, don’t forget about the older children. They often feel left out when everyone is paying attention to the new baby. Get them a special gift as well, or do something special with them. You could take them out for lunch, or perhaps to a play area. No matter where you choose to look for baby baskets, you are bound to find an excellent supply of great ideas. Baby presents come in all shapes, sizes, and prices ranges, so even the tightest budget can squeeze out a great gift.