Products such as cribs and high chairs should most definitely be selected with safety in mind. Parents and caretakers of babies and young children need to be aware of the many potential hazards in their environment — hazards that can occur through the misuse of products or through the use of products that have not been well designed.

Ask yourself these questions: Does your equipment have basic safety features? If not, can missing or unsafe parts be easily replaced with the proper parts? Can breaks or cracks be repaired to give more protection? Can you fix the older equipment without creating a “new” hazard? If you answer no to any of these questions, the item is beyond help and should be discarded. If the item can be repaired, repair it before even thinking of using it.

Car Seat

For birth to at least one year and 20 pounds, baby should only ride in a properly installed rear-facing seat that will better protect his or her head, neck, and body from potential impact. The seat should be secured to the vehicle by the safety belts or by the LATCH system (which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children). If you're not sure whether your car seat is the right one, consult the owner's manual of your car for recommendations and maximum seat dimensions.

Also, be sure to thoroughly read the owner's manual that came with the car seat, as it should explain in precise detail how to use the seat properly. For instance, your child's car seat should recline at approximately a 45-degree angle. Harness straps/ slots should be harnessed at or below shoulder level (lower set of slots for most convertible child safety seats), and should be snug on baby. Harness the clip at armpit level. Never use the baby's car seat in a front seat where an air bag is present.

Back Carrier

The carrier should have a restraining strap to secure the child, with leg openings small enough to prevent the child from slipping out, but large enough to prevent chafing. Check for pinch points in the folding mechanism or frame. The carrier should have a padded covering over the metal frame near baby's face. Of course, you shouldn't use a back carrier until baby is four or five months old. By then, baby's neck is able to withstand jolts and not sustain any injuries.

Bassinet/Cradle

For the first week at home, you might want to use a bassinet or cradle; just make sure it has a sturdy bottom and a wide base for stability. The bassinet/cradle should have a smooth surface (no protruding staples or other hardware that can injure baby). The legs should have strong, effective locks to prevent folding while in use. The mattress should be firm and fit snugly. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines on the weight and size of a baby who can safely use these products.

Baby Bath Ring or Seat

Bath time should always be a time for caution since, in the water, disaster can strike in a matter of seconds. For any baby bath product, make sure suction cups are securely fastened and that they securely attach to the smooth surface of the tub. Fill the tub only with enough water to cover baby's legs, and never leave baby alone or with a sibling while in the bath ring — even for a second!

Changing Table

Changing tables make changing time convenient for you — not to mention easier on your tired back! But be sure your changing table has safety straps to prevent falls, as well as drawers or shelves that are easily accessible so you aren't tempted to leave the baby unattended.