How to Choose a Baby Crib

Although baby cribs can add a decorative touch to the nursery, the most important thing to consider is safety. Whether you purchase a new crib, or use a second-hand or hand-me-down crib, the crib must meet all of the following safety requirements. New cribs should already meet current safety standards, but if you buy a used crib, you’ll need to take some extra time to make sure it’s safe for your baby.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look for a crib that is JPMA certified. This means that it met all safety standards when it was made. If you’re not sure if the crib you want is certified, check the JPMA website for a list of certified products.

2. Check to make sure the crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. This will help make sure your baby can’t get his or her head stuck between the slats.

3. Choose a crib that does not have decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, since the baby could get stuck in the openings. The headboard and footboard should be solid, or have the same type of slats as the sides of the crib.

4. Avoid cribs that have corner posts that stick up more than 1/16 inch above the rails of the crib, since they can become a strangulation hazard if the baby catches clothing on them. Canopy cribs can be safe as long as they meet all other safety requirements.

5. Make sure the crib is complete and properly assembled, with no loose screws or parts, and no splinters or peeling paint. The crib should appear sturdy and easy to use. If the crib has drop sides, they should raise and lower easily and quietly.

6. Choose a crib that will fit a standard crib mattress. Make sure the mattress fits snugly in the crib, with no more than two fingers width (or 1 inch) between the mattress and the crib. The crib should have different settings for mattress height, so you can lower the mattress as the baby grows.

7. Look for a crib that has any optional features you want, such a storage drawer underneath, a canopy, plastic teething covers on the rails, and drop or fixed sides. Some cribs can convert to toddler beds, or full-size or day beds, once the baby outgrows the crib.

8. Choose a crib color that matches any other furniture you’ve already picked out, or been given, for the baby’s room. Many crib models are available in several finishes, such as white, natural, oak and cherry.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to follow all the manufacturer’s directions carefully, and call customer service if you have any questions to be sure the crib is assembled correctly.
• Keep the manufacturer name and model number handy, so you can keep aware of any recalls. Send in the product registration card when buying a new crib.
• Make sure to place the crib away from window cords and other dangling objects, as well shelves or decorative wall objects that could fall on the baby.
• Follow all safety guidelines for bedding and sleep positions when putting the baby in the crib.

Resources

• The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association has important safety guidelines
• The JPMA has a list of products that meet their safety certification requirements.