When babies use furniture, bars, or people to pull themselves up to a standing position, usually around 8 to 10 months. This is when you need to lower the crib mattress to its lowest setting, secure anything that could topple, and make sure they can't reach dangerous items on surfaces above them.
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A baby who pulls up on furniture and walks along it while holding on, usually between 8 and 12 months. Cruisers can reach tabletops, pull things down, and tip over unstable furniture. This stage demands anchored furniture and cleared surfaces.
A safe crib meets current safety standards with slats spaced no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, a firm mattress that fits snugly with no gaps, and no drop sides. Keep the crib free of pillows, stuffed animals, and bumper pads. Check for recalls before using any secondhand crib.
The danger of heavy furniture or appliances falling on a child who climbs or pulls on them. Dressers, bookshelves, and TVs cause thousands of injuries every year. Anchoring furniture to the wall with anti-tip brackets is one of the most important childproofing steps you can take.
A strap or bracket that secures heavy furniture to the wall to prevent tip-overs. Dressers, bookshelves, and TVs are the biggest risks. Most come with simple L-brackets or nylon straps that screw into the furniture and wall stud. You can get earthquake-rated ones for extra security.