Are crib toys safe for babies?

A question we hear fairly often from parents is whether or not it’s okay to put toys or aquariums in the baby’s crib. Lots of us use these kinds of crib toys as a way to entertain our babies, or to give them something to do after they wake up from sleep (in the hopes that they may let US sleep a little longer!). The concern for some parents, however, is that baby won’t sleep and would rather play with her toys.

How safe are crib toys for babies?

The safety of crib toys depends on various factors such as the age of the baby, the design of the toy, and whether the toy meets safety standards. It is recommended to follow safety guidelines and choose toys that are specifically designed for infants, such as toys that are lightweight, non-toxic, and have no small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Always supervise infants while they are playing with toys, and remove or replace any toys that appear to be damaged or unsafe.

To keep SIDS risks low, you should refrain from putting any soft objects in your baby’s crib, and that includes soft plush toys, blankets, pillows, etc. Make sure you read all information to reduce SIDS risks. You do not want to use any crib toys that can potentially cover your baby’s face or suffocate them. Additionally, avoid anything that has little pieces that can fall off and your baby can choke on. But, if you add a baby mobile, crib aquarium, or another safe toy to your baby’s crib, it can be perfectly safe. If you are concerned, always talk to your doctor.

Is it OK to put toys in crib?

When it comes to placing toys in a baby’s crib, safety and comfort are both important considerations. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NIH) recommends removing all soft items, such as toys, blankets, and crib bumpers, from the crib to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SID). Additionally, toys with small parts or that can be easily torn apart, such as toys with buttons or ribbons, should be avoided to prevent choking hazards.

On the other hand, having a few age-appropriate toys in the crib can help to comfort and soothe a baby. The Baby Sleep Site suggests using toys that promote sleep and relaxation, such as musical toys that play soothing songs, rather than toys that are overly stimulating. Mobiles can also be a good option, as they can be hung above the crib and provide a calming visual distraction without posing a suffocation hazard.

In conclusion, while it is okay to place toys in a baby’s crib, it is important to choose age-appropriate toys that meet safety standards and do not pose a risk of suffocation or choking. Parents should regularly inspect the toys for safety, and remove any toys that appear damaged or have small parts. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety recommendations when choosing toys for a baby’s crib.

What should you not put in a crib?

The acquisition of the baby’s cot is one of those items that generate a lot of anxiety for parents-to-be. The desire of many is to buy the furniture as soon as the pregnancy is announced and already leave it mounted, usually full of decorations both inside and outside.

If this is exactly how you imagine the space where your child will sleep, red alert! For safety reasons, when it comes to cots, less is always more. Up to 4 years of age, children are very exposed to risks. Among the main causes are inhalation of gastric content, choking on objects or food, and suffocation in their own cot or bed, due to excessive fabrics and toys and even by an adult when they are sleeping. The following items should not be placed in a baby’s crib:

1. Soft objects: Soft items, such as blankets, pillows, comforters, stuffed animals, and crib bumpers, pose a suffocation hazard and should be kept out of the crib.
2. Loose bedding: Any loose bedding, such as sheets, quilts, or loose blankets, can pose a suffocation risk and should be kept out of the crib.
3. Pillows: Pillows can interfere with a baby’s breathing and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
4. Crib bumpers: Crib bumpers can cause suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation, and should be removed from the crib.
5. Toys with small parts: Toys with small parts, such as buttons or ribbons, can pose a choking hazard and should not be placed in the crib.
6. Broken or damaged toys: Any toys that are broken or damaged should be removed from the crib and discarded.
7. Other hazardous items: Other hazardous items, such as cords, strings, or wires, should be kept out of the crib to prevent entrapment or strangulation.

It is important to always follow the guidelines and safety recommendations of the manufacturer when choosing items for a baby’s crib. Regularly inspect the crib and its contents for safety, and remove any items that pose a hazard or appear to be damaged.

At what age is it safe for a baby to sleep with a lovey?

It is generally considered safe for a baby to sleep with a lovey, such as a blanket or stuffed animal, starting at around 12 months of age. Before this age, it is recommended to keep all soft items, including loveys, out of the crib to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

At 12 months and older, a lovey can provide comfort and help a baby fall asleep more easily. However, it is important to choose a lovey that is safe for sleep, such as one that is made from non-toxic materials and does not have any small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Parents should also regularly inspect the lovey for safety and replace it if it appears to be damaged.

Ultimately, the appropriate age for a baby to start sleeping with a lovey is a personal decision, and parents should make an informed choice based on their child’s individual needs and safety concerns. It is important to always follow the guidelines and safety recommendations of the manufacturer when choosing a lovey for a baby’s bed.

Our suggestions of Crib Toys at A Matter Of Style