Preparing a sleeping space for your newborn takes some careful attention. He or she will need special equipment that is as safe as possible.

Bassinets, cradles, or cribs are all fine as long as they meet the following safety guidelines:

• Bassinets and cradles are appropriate only until baby is about 1 month old or weighs 4.6 kg (approximately 10 lb).
  
  
• Bassinets and cradles should be well supported at the base to prevent collapse. They should also have a base wide enough to prevent tipping should someone bump into them.
  
  
• If you use a folding bassinet or cradle, make sure the legs are locked straight in place when the bed is in use.
  
  
• Cribs should have slats that are no more than 6 cm (approximately 2 3/8 in) apart to prevent any chance of baby’s head getting trapped between them.
  
  
• Avoid headboards or baseboards that are decorated with cutouts, as these can also trap baby’s head.
  
  
• Remove any corner posts. Clothing can get caught on them and injure or even strangle baby.
  
  
• The mattress should fit the crib snugly, so baby can’t slip between it and the crib.
  
  
• Use a crib bumper while your child is an infant and make sure it is secured with ties to keep it from falling away from the sides. The ties shouldn’t be more than 15.25 cm (approximately 6 in) in length to prevent the possibility of choking.
  
  
• As soon as baby is old enough to stand, remove any bumpers, toys, or other items that could possibly be used as a step for climbing out.