How to Buy a Safe Portable Crib

A portable crib can be a parent's savior when traveling. Your child will always have a comfortable and familiar place to rest or play and, best of all, the crib can fit in the trunk of your car.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Crib Bedding Sets
• Crib Mattresses
• Cribs
• Children's Board Books
• Baby Toys

1. Research recall notices on the Web. There have been recalls on several models of portable cribs because of fatal accidents. Some models are still sold - with additional safety equipment that consumers must install. Most recalled models have been pulled from store shelves and replaced with safer models, but you'll have to be especially cautious when borrowing or buying a used play yard.
2. Look for safety features. (Keep in mind that portable cribs are not subject to the same intense federal scrutiny as full-sized permanent cribs.) The mesh on the sides should be a tight weave so fingers and toes cannot poke through and little buttons and snaps won't get caught. The hinges should lock tight. Put weight on the hinge, does it seem strong enough? Can your child manipulate the lock by turning it and loosening it? Most play yard fatalities occur from the locks unlocking and folding down on the child.
3. Check for mattress comfort. Most play yards have a cardboard base with padding on top. Some models have more padding then others. Find a model that meets the safety requirements and has a well-padded base.
4. Measure the height of the crib. The top rail should be 22 inches from the floor to deter escape.
5. Shop around. There are many different sizes and colors of portable cribs; they can be found in just about any major toy or children's store. You can even buy models that coordinate with your stroller, swing and highchair. Some fold up into neat little bundles and have wheels and a handle for easy transport through airports. Expect to pay anywhere from $70 to $170.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a foam insert to cut and lay in your play yard as a mattress. Make sure the foam is firm enough for your baby to sleep on. A good way to test firmness is to press down on the foam with your finger. If it indents easily, surrounding your fingertip when you apply little pressure, it's too soft. If you have to press hard to get a little indent, the foam is firm enough to let baby sleep on.
• Think about size. The bigger the play yard, the harder it will be to transport.
• A portable play yard should not take the place of a permanent crib.
• Avoid laying comforters or soft blankets down to make the mattress more comfortable. Too much soft bedding increases suffocation risk for small babies.
• Check on your baby frequently just to make sure everything is OK.