How To Safely Use a Baby Bassinet: A Guide For New Parents

How To Safely Use a Baby Bassinet: A Guide For New Parents

 Safe Baby Bedside Bassinet Use

Over the past 25 years, Arm’s Reach has been a trusted brand for new parents looking to provide a safe sleep environment for their newborn.  During that time, Arm’s Reach has also helped parents educate themselves and become more aware of how to ensure that their baby is sleeping safely.  The company works closely with experts including Dr. William Sears, a well respected pediatrician, and sleep experts, including Dr. James McKenna, who talk about the positive aspects of using a bassinet and the benefits that go along with it.

Below are some important pieces of information related to safe sleep:

 

Use properly fitted sheets

It's important to use sheets that fit your baby's bassinet properly. Loose sheets can pose a suffocation hazard, so make sure that the sheets are snug and don't have any wrinkles or bunches. You'll also want to make sure that the sheets are made from a breathable material, such as cotton, to keep your baby cool and comfortable. Arm’s Reach offers a selection of sheets that are designed especially for Arm’s Reach® Co-Sleeper® bassinets.

 

Ensure that the bassinet is on a flat surface

Your baby's bassinet should be placed on a flat, stable surface that doesn’t move.  It's also important to make sure that the bassinet is securely placed and won't tip over. You can do this by adjusting the feet or legs of the bassinet and lock them in place.

 

Take advice from the experts

The New York Times, Wirecutter methodically researched bedside sleepers. They considered the advice of a long list of American institutions dedicated to keeping sleeping babies safe and determined that the Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper "is the most convenient choice for parents who want to sleep with their baby right next to their bed."

 

Put babies to sleep on their backs

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be put to sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This is true whether your baby is sleeping in a bassinet, crib, or any other sleep surface.

 

Only use products specifically marketed for infant sleep

It's important to use only products that are specifically marketed for infant sleep. This includes items such as cribs, bassinets, and infant beds. Don't use products that are intended for older children or adults, as they may not be safe for infants.

 

Check hardware, especially if using for a second child

Check the bassinet for any hardware that may have loosened over time, is sticking out or is not in its correct position. These can pose a potential hazard for your baby, so make sure that all hardware is securely fastened.

 

Keep the room at a comfortable temperature

It's also important to keep the room at a comfortable temperature to keep your baby from getting overheated. Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS, so make sure that the room is kept at a temperature that is comfortable for an adult.

 

Check for product recalls

If you're using a bassinet that was used for a previous child, make sure that it's still in good condition and that it conforms to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines. Also, check for any product recalls on the item.

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