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So, you’ve arrived home safely with your new bundle of joy. But now you need to make sure you have a cradle that is fit for purpose. No, hand me downs or cheap imitations allowed.

Finding the right cradle that is safe and supports your baby while they sleep soundly can send you in circles. A word of advice, plan ahead, do your research, and do it well – it will make a difference to your sleep, wallet, and your baby’s growth and development.

Where Should Your Baby Sleep?

The best place for a baby to sleep is in the same room as you, the parent.

It is recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) that you should keep your newborn with you until they are six month’s old. By keeping your baby close, you can dramatically reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

What Do You Look For In the Perfect Cradle?

Choose a cradle that fits your lifestyle and your home decor. Ask yourself the following questions to help steer you in the right direction. Will you need to move the cradle in six months? What space do you have to put your baby’s cradle safely? 

Think about costs, style, and simplicity. Try not to over complicate your decisions and choices. Find simple, workable solutions to space and your options available when selecting the right cradle. 

Cradles are often a family’s generational tradition, with many handed down through the family. However, this may pose many difficulties as the cradle may be unfit for purpose. What may have been a wonderful place for your baby to sleep in days gone by may not meet health and safety guidelines in the modern-day?

Read recommendations and review all of your choices and decide on the safest baby cradle. Request instructions when purchasing a new cradle so that you can assemble the cradle correctly and adhere to set safety standards. Closely inspect and check for missing parts. Do not put your baby in the cradle if parts of the cradle are missing, as this will be extremely unsafe for your new baby.

Test rocking and stability; make sure the cradle is working satisfactory and usable. If the cradle is not fit for purpose – you will need to look for a new cradle.

What are my Other Choices?

There are other choices that you can make when deciding where your baby will sleep. 

You could choose a crib or a bassinet, too; both offer benefits and options to find the perfect solution based on your home circumstances and available space. 

Here are a few ideas about cribs and Bassinets. Take a look:

  • Cribs are often found in nurseries.
  • They are either metal or wooden with wooden slats along the side.
  • Most bigger than cradles and Bassinets.
  • Cribs come in two different sizes; Standard – 52” in length and 28” in width, inclusive of a fitted mattress or a Mini – 38” in length and 24” in width, also inclusive of a mattress.
  • Bassinets are usually smaller and easily moveable from room to room.
  • They are perfect for small spaces. 
  • You can buy replacement fitted mattresses.
  • Ensure that the slats are exactly 2 ⅜ inches apart, as stated in the CPSC guidance.

Breastfeeding Positioning

Cradle your baby close to you and nurture both your baby and you.

This helps to support maternal bonds with your baby and is a beautiful way for your baby to bond with you. 

Breastfeeding also enriches both of your lives.

The following technique, called the Cradle Hold, will help you to breastfeed correctly; lay your baby across your lap, facing you. Place your baby’s head on your forearm – with the baby’s nose positioned before your breast and nipple. Ensure your hand supports the whole of the baby’s body. Place your baby’s lower arm under yours – but do not cause any restrictions. Check to make sure your baby’s ear, hip, and shoulder are in a straight line with your breast and nipple before attempting a succesful latching on for your baby and correct breastfeeding.

Creating a Beautiful Nursery

When creating a new nursery for your baby, you may wish to consider some of the following choices:

  • Do choose a specific theme and style.
  • Do select the perfect palette for you and your baby.
  • Decide on the textiles that will adorn the room before you start painting.
  • Identify the best focal point in the room.
  • Decorate the ceiling with something that will engage your baby.
  • Develop a system for sorting and storing your baby’s clothes with easy access.
  • Leave the nursery to grow with your baby.
  • Don’t use harsh light, use soft lights that dim. 
  • Keep the room well ventilated.

Go and be creative. Fill the space with love and happiness to nurture and comfort your baby. Enjoy every second of your new adventure as a parent. Involve family and friends and get them involved in helping you create the nursery you dream of for your baby. 

Looking After You and Baby

Remember that you will be tired too, and be sure that you consider your own needs, after all, if you are too exhausted. This will make looking after your baby a little less happy and enjoyable. Take time to rest, sleep whenever you can. Reduce caffeine and alcohol, and eat healthily. 

You’ve waited nine months for this day to arrive, so make sure that everything is ready when you come home to start your parenting journey and your new life with your baby. Fill your life with bliss and embrace all the changes, one step at a time.

 You don’t have to know everything about being a parent, and you have to open your heart and mind, love, laugh, and cherish every minute you have with your baby. You will never have these precious moments again; this time is now. Capture those special moments with photographs and create a creative memory to share with your baby when grown up with a family of their own.