Crib Safety
Finding a crib can be an exciting, but sometimes confusing, search. There are numerous models from which to choose; selecting the best one can be a hard choice. Besides for picking a crib that will look good with your baby's new room, you should definitely consider how safe that crib is going to be.
Government and heath officials have issued guidelines for cribs
and their accessories. Keep these pointers in mind when considering
any model.
Crib Design
Cribs built prior to 1974 may not be the best choice. Most
do not meet safety standards for slat spacing or construction, and
some even are painted with lead paint.
The safest cribs must have the following features:
- Slats are no more than 2-3/8 inches apart
- Corner posts are the same height as end panels, or less than 1/16 of an inch higher
- The head and foot boards have no open or cut-out areas
- The top rails of crib sides, when raised, are at least 26 inches above the mattress
- The crib includes features allowing the mattress height to be adjusted as the child grows
No matter what model is chosen, a crib should no longer be used when the top rail height is less than three-fourths of your child's height.
Mattress
There are specific features to seek in your crib's mattress. The
goal is to create a sleeping area free of trapping or suffocation
hazards.
Look for the following:
- The mattress fits within the crib, creating no gaps wider than two adult fingers
- All plastic coverings are removed prior to use
- The mattress is flat and firm
Crib Hardware
The devices that hold cribs together should be checked for safety
prior to and regularly after purchase. Look for the following:
- The crib is outfitted with a drop side requiring either two actions, or ten pounds of force to unlock
- None of the hardware is disengaged, broken, bent or loose
- Mattress support hangers and brackets are intact
- Hardware is free of sharp edges, points, and rough surfaces.
Crib Accessories
Accessories add to your crib's appearance, but can be hazardous to
your child. Check for the following in your crib's bedding:
- Bumper pads that run the full perimeter of the crib
- Bumper pads that tie or snap in place
- Bumper pads have at least six straps or ties, with no excess fabric
- Damaged teething rails are fixed or removed
- Mobiles and crib gyms are removed when the child is five months
- The crib is free of plastic sheets, pillows, and large toys
- Any loose or torn items are replaced or repaired