How to Buy a New Crib
Cribs run the gamut from Civics to Ferraris in looks, materials and sticker price. Shop for a crib that's built to last. It will be shaken, rattled and rolled (and sometimes slept in) for years.
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Instructions
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Make sure a used or new crib carries a sticker indicating a certified manufacturer. Verify that the manufacturer complies with federal safety regulations on crib construction.
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Buy a reputable brand, such as Pali or Ragazzi, for safe, beautiful hardwood cribs in sizes and styles that range from simple ($200) to completely over the top ($1,000).
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Check that the frame and headboard are strong. Jiggle the bars to make sure they don't twist or move. Make sure the mattress support frame is snug and doesn't easily pull apart from the corners.
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If you're buying a used crib or inheriting a hand-me-down, be sure to get a model that is only a few years old so it meets safety standards and its components are not worn. Make sure the entire hardware package is present and in good condition. Don't get a crib with split or loosened wood joints, missing or cracked bars or slats, cracked or flaking paint, or splinters. Top rails should have plastic gum protectors.
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On older cribs, check that spaces between slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches (6 cm) apart as required by law. Go to the National Safety Council (www.nsc.org/library/facts/cribtips.htm) for more information on crib safety guidelines.
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Test the drop-side mechanism (on one or both sides) to make sure you can lower it easily with only one hand. When lowered, the top rail should be at least 9 inches (23 cm) above the mattress.
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Look for a crib with at least 26 inches (66 cm) between the top of the side rail and the mattress support frame. Many cribs let you adjust the height of the mattress frame to keep a growing child safely inside. Your baby will no doubt attempt a daring crib escape at some point, and tall sides make it tougher.
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Explore cribs with special features. Cribs you can convert into toddler or child beds are costly up front, but may save money in the long run since you can skip the intermediate bed down the line and go right into a twin.
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Buy the best crib mattress you can afford ($80 to $140). Look for firm support, fire retardency, and a good-quality waterproof cover. Most mattresses come in a standard size, but check the fit: If you can put more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib frame, it is not safe.
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Tips & Warnings
Before buying, look at BabyCenter.com for news of product recalls. Never compromise safety.
