When you choose a crib, check it carefully to make sure that your baby's sleep
space is safe.
What to look for:
- A crib with no drop-side rail: The side rails should not be able
to move. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the sale of drop-side
rails for safety reasons. Do not buy or accept a used crib with a drop-side rail.
- Safe slat distance: The distance between slats must be no more
than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) to protect infants from falling out and toddlers
from trapping their heads between the slats.
- The firmest mattress you can find. Don't rely on manufacturers'
labels — test it yourself by pushing firmly on the center and all sides of the
mattress. Make sure the mattress holds firm and springs back in place quickly. This
is extremely important because soft mattresses may play a role in sudden
infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- A mattress that fits snugly in the crib. This keeps a baby from
slipping in between the mattress and the crib sides. Make sure to remove any plastic
mattress packaging before use. If you use a mattress pad, buy one that fits tightly.
- Corner posts that are the right height: If the crib has corner
posts, they must be either flush with the top of the headboard and footboard or very
tall — over 16 inches (41 centimeters). Anything in between is a potential strangulation
hazard.
- If you are getting a used crib, check it with extra care:
- Avoid cribs older than 10 years old: They may not meet the most
recent safety standards. There may be too much space between slats or decorative cut-outs
in the headboard and footboard that can trap a baby's head. A crib made before 1978
may have a finish that contains lead, so a crib that has been in the family for generations
won't be the best one to use!
- Check the condition of the crib: Check that the crib has all
of its hardware and that all parts and slats are in good condition. Only use
manufacturer-provided parts if any repairs are needed. Make sure you have a manual
to assemble it properly.
SAFETY NOTES:
- Always place your baby on his or her back to sleep.
- Make sure the crib has not been recalled by the manufacturer.
- Check all screws and hardware regularly and tighten them if necessary.
- A bare bed is best. Don't place bumper pads, soft bedding, or soft toys (blankets,
fluffy comforters, pillows, plush toys) in your baby's crib. Any of these items could
cause your baby to suffocate.
- Remove mobiles when your baby starts to push to his or her hands and knees or
when your baby turns 5 months old, whichever comes first.
- Do not place a crib near a window or drapes. Your baby could fall or become entangled
in window blind and drape cords.
- Remove bibs and necklaces from your baby’s neck before putting your baby
in the crib.
- Do not hang toys by strings.
- Make sure sleepwear and sheets are flame retardant.
Date reviewed: January 2018