How to Install a Crib Bumper With a Solid Headboard & Footboard

Choose a safe crib bumper. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association states that consumers should avoid crib bumpers that are pillow-like. Choose a bumper that is made of a breathable material, such as mesh. Also, the strings on the bumper should be no more than 9 inches to avoid strangulation.

Tie the strings on the crib sides around each crib peg. If you can, tuck the excess string under the mattress to keep it out of the baby’s reach.

Tie the strings onto the headboard and footboard of the crib. Unlike an adult bed, a crib’s headboard and footboard are not solid wood all the way down. They are solid wood at the top, but they open up into slats at the bottom. This allows you to tie the bumper pad on the headboard and footboard. If, for some reason, you cannot tie the strings at the head and foot of the bed, do not use a crib bumper. Health Canada says that crib bumpers that are not secured on all four sides can fall over and suffocate the baby. They can also pull away from the crib, and this will create an opening for your baby to become trapped.