The most frequent injury associated with bassinets and cradles involves children falling either when the bottom of the bassinet or cradle breaks or when it tips over or collapses. Suffocation has also been reported in products that are not structurally sound or when pillows or folded quilts were under baby.

If You Are Buying a Bassinet or Cradle

1. Look for one with a sturdy bottom and a wide, stable base.

2. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines on the appropriate weight and size of babies who can safely use the bassinet or cradle.

3. Check to make sure that spaces between spindles are no larger than 2 3/8 in. (60 mm).

Bassinet Safety Tips

1. Check screws and bolts periodically to see if they are tight.

2. If the product has legs that fold for storage, make sure that effective locks are provided to ensure that the legs do not accidentally fold while in use.

3. Mattresses and padding should fit snugly and be firm and smooth. Never use pillows.

4. Decorative bows and ribbons should be trimmed short and stitched securely to prevent strangulation.

5. Swinging cradles should have a way to keep them from swinging once a baby is asleep.

Adapted from "The Safe Nursery" by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission