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Choosing Safe Baby Products

Even though babies are small, compact bundles, there is nothing small or simple about their accessories! Choosing products for your baby can be confusing, with all the gadgets and features available. But there is one overriding consideration that must never be compromised when picking out your baby's products, whether you're buying, borrowing, or accepting a hand-me-down: safety.

Backpacks and Soft Carriers
Babies love and need close contact, and these carriers are ideal for nestling them against their parents. Two types are available: one is pouch-like, and the other has a frame.

What to look for:

• The carrier should have straps that prevent your baby from falling or crawling out. Look for firm, padded head support.
• Check for ease of use. Some of the soft ones are difficult to put on because of numerous straps.
• A framed carrier should have a kickstand that locks in the open position. The folding mechanism should be free of pinch points that could catch your baby's fingers. Look for padding on the metal frame around the infant's face.
• Both you and your baby should try on the pack for comfort.
• Ideally, the fabric should be durable and easy to clean.
• Pockets or zippered compartments are handy for storing frequently needed items.

SAFETY NOTE: Never use a framed carrier as an infant seat. It can tip over without warning.

Bathtubs
Baby bathtubs give parents a controlled environment for cleaning a wet, slippery baby. The angle of the seat helps free a parent's hands for washing.

What to look for:

• The bathtub should have slip-resistant backing to keep it from moving.
• Look for a tub made of thick plastic that will stay firm in the center, even under the weight of the water.
• Avoid bath rings, baby flotation devices, and suction seats without restraining belts. These can flip over and lead to drowning.
• Beware of foam cushions; your baby could tear off pieces and swallow them.
• Some bathtubs have indentations that are convenient for holding soap, shampoo, and other cleaning supplies.

SAFETY NOTE: Never leave your baby unattended or in the care of an older sibling in the bath, even for a moment. Gather all of your bathing supplies ahead of time, and take your baby with you if you have to answer the door or the telephone.

Changing Tables
There are generally three kinds of changing tables: wooden ones with guardrails, fold-up models, and hinged chest adapters. Hinged chest adapters are not recommended - dressers with these adapters have toppled over when a baby's weight was placed close to the outer edge.

What to look for:

• Wooden changing tables with rails are usually the least likely to sway or tip over when a baby pulls on them from the floor.
• Fold-up models should be checked for sturdiness: when the table is open, give it a good shake.
• A wire changing table should have a wide base so that a baby can't pull it over on top of himself from the floor.
• The table should have shelves or compartments for storing everything you'll need. This prevents you from taking your eyes off your baby while you look for that hard-to-find item.
• The guardrail around the table should be 2 inches high.

SAFETY NOTE: Use the safety belt every time you change your baby.

Infant Seats
Infant seats should not be confused with infant or child safety seats. Regular infant seats simply allow young babies to sit up - they should never be used to transport infants. They are not designed to protect a baby in a crash. Some child safety seats, however, can double as infant seats.

What to look for:

• The base should be wider than the seat, and locking mechanisms should be secure. Push down on the unit to make sure it is sturdy.
• The base should feature nonskid surfacing to prevent the seat from moving on a smooth surface.
• The seat belt should be secure and the fabric washable.

SAFETY NOTE: Never take your attention off your baby while he is sitting in an infant seat that is on a table or other elevated surface. Don't place the seat on the washing machine or any other vibrating surface; the vibrations could cause the seat to move and fall off the surface. Use the seat belt every time you place your baby in the seat.