534 Cribs

Babies spend a lot of their time in cribs; not only should it be comfortable for them, but it’s imperative that it’s a safe environment. Purchasing the right crib is an important step in parenthood, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Instead, learn the basic crib facts to help you determine what’s right and what to avoid.


What types of cribs are available? There are several styles of cribs available, so choose what will make you the most comfortable in terms of the care of your baby. Read on to learn about what options you have.
Fixed-side cribs: Also referred to as “static” or “standard” cribs, these are built with four stationery sides that cannot be readjusted. These tend to be less expensive than other options.
Convertible cribs: These cribs have the ability to convert into beds once your baby is old enough for the transition. These can be a good investment and last you into the future. However, if you have a second child, remember that you’ll need a new crib since your toddler is using the original one as a bed.
Rounded cribs: True to their name, these cribs are round in shape, allowing the baby a full view of his or her surroundings. In addition to the crib, you may need to purchase a specific mattress and bedding to fit the round shape.


How do you know the crib is safe for your baby? This is by all means the most important factor when it comes to purchasing a crib. Refer to the following points to be sure the crib will be a safe haven for your baby.
Check the crib for a Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association certification to ensure it was tested for quality and safety, and confirm thorough research that the crib hasn’t been recalled for safety issues in the past.
Make sure slats on the sides of the crib are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart so your baby’s head doesn’t risk getting stuck.
If your crib has corner posts, they should be no higher than 1/16 of an inch. If they’re any higher, there’s the chance your baby’s clothing could get stuck and therefore result in strangulation or injury.
Shake the crib to ensure its stability. If it wobbles, you may want to pass.
Be aware that drop-side cribs have been banned by the Consumer Products Safety Commission for posing a serious threat to infants. Between 2000 and 2010, at least 32 babies died due to the drop side detaching. The baby could get caught between the drop side and the mattress, resulting in entrapment, strangulation or suffocation.


Should you purchase a crib with an adjustable mattress height? This can be helpful for reaching in and picking up your baby, but be sure you adjust the mattress at the appropriate time. Once your baby can sit up, it needs to be lowered so he or she can’t pull him or herself up and climb or fall out of the crib.

Can decorating the crib create unintended harm? It is possible, so try to keep the crib decorations to a minimum. Your baby could pull the decorations off and harm him or herself, or become trapped in the cutout designs along the crib.

Should you consider a used crib? Saving money is great, but not at the cost of safety. Do your research on used cribs: was it ever recalled, does it contain lead paint, have any discontinued features or are the slats too-wide? Federal guidelines on cribs went into effect in 1973, so give serious thought to using a crib made before then. However, cribs made as recently as 1991 may also have problems such as sharp edges, protruding metal or peeling paint.

Where should you place the crib? Put the crib away from anything that is within a baby’s curious reach. Avoid places near window blinds where the cords can inadvertently get wrapped around your baby. Do not place the crib near shelving with small gadgets or trinkets: you could risk your baby choking.

Find cribs design ideas here.