Many characteristics identify a safe crib for your baby. These fall into several broad categories. You will want to be sure the crib does not pose a strangulation hazard. It is important that crib rails provide proper protection. The mattress must fit snugly. The crib must be free from gaps or holes where a child could get stuck. Finally, the finish on the crib must be safe.
Any post or piece that protrudes from the crib can pose a strangulation hazard. Clothing can become caught on a protrusion while wrapped around the baby’s neck and cause strangulation. Common places for such protrusions are the corners of the crib. Be sure that corner posts do not rise above the headboard or footboard. Even a rise of a fraction of an inch can be enough to entangle the child. If the crib does have corner posts, they must be even with the head and footboards or else more than sixteen inches taller than the head and footboards so as to be completely out of reach.
Crib rails often are designed to be raised and lowered by adults. Be sure that the rails can be locked in their upper and lower positions and that the crib has at least two latches that must be operated at the same time to raise or lower the rail. The crib’s rail should be no less than nine inches above the mattress when the rail is lowered. To be safe for older babies who are learning to stand, the raised rail should be at least twenty-six inches above the lowest mattress support position.
Check any crib carefully for gaps or open places where a baby could get stuck. The gaps between rail slats must be no greater than two and three-eighths inches. Cribs with larger gaps pose a risk for small infants to fall out and for older infants to trap their heads. Another potential entrapment hazard is any cut-away decoration in the headboard or footboard. These artistic touches are not worth the risk to your child. The crib mattress is one other place to check for dangerous gaps. The mattress must fit tightly inside the crib with no space between it and the sides of the crib where the baby could slip between the two. It is best to use the original mattress with any crib, but if you must put a new mattress into an old crib, be certain to measure carefully and buy one that fits snugly. You should not be able to fit two fingers between the mattress and the sides of the crib.
The finishing details of the crib are also important. Rails and other upper surfaces should be equipped with teething guards. Babies are quite likely to chew on their cribs and potential teething areas should be able to withstand the abuse without splintering. The surfaces of the crib also need to be free form lacquers, paints, varnishes, or other finishes that could be toxic if ingested.
When choosing a new crib, consumers can look for the Juvenile Product Manufacturers’ Association (JPMA) certification. Crib safety standards were made more rigorous in 1978, so anyone considering using a crib made prior to this date should be especially thorough when evaluating its safety. Be sure the side rail slats are close enough together, assess the mattress for proper fit, and check the finish for splintering, peeling or cracking, or lead-based finishes.
The safest crib in the world can easily be made unsafe through risky or unwise use. Be sure the crib is properly assembled, castors are locked, and all screws and other hardware are tightened and secured. The mattress should be firm and all soft bedding (like blankets or pillows) should be removed. Soft toys are also a hazard in a baby’s crib. There should be no strings or cords in or around the crib, including bumper ties and drapery or window shade cords. Mobiles and crib gyms should be out of reach and removed when the baby begins to raise himself for crawling or sitting.
There are many types of cribs that suit different circumstances. Standard cribs with drop rails are far from your only choice. Follow the same safety guidelines and be sure the crib’s overall construction is solid when you consider any of the nontraditional choices. Also, check each crib for stability. When baby becomes larger and more active, you would not want the crib to tip over. Be sure to adhere to age and size guidelines, too.
Small beds, like bassinets and cradles, may comfort your young infant since they are smaller, cozier spaces. These little beds are nice in situations where space is limited. You can easily move them so baby is nearby, too. Be especially careful that the mattress fits properly and avoid soft items, like comforters, quilts, and pillows. Follow age and size guidelines.
Convertible cribs can be changed from a crib into a small toddler bed. They may be a bit more expensive than a traditional crib, but you will gain the option of using it for a few more years. Be sure there are no gaps or protruding decorations or hardware that could trap the baby. Check mattress fit, stability, and safety of the finish and decorations, since many of these beds have whimsical decorations.
Portable cribs are very convenient for families that travel or if your child sleeps regularly at a relative’s or care giver’s house. You will want one that is easy to assemble and take down, yet meets all of the safety guidelines. It is particularly important to use portable cribs in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions since they are smaller and lighter weight than most beds. Many have mesh or cloth sides, so watch for tears or raveling that could pose a hazard to the child.
With the vast array of choices available, nearly every family should be able to find the crib to meet their needs. And no matter where baby sleeps, it is vital that parents know the basic guidelines of crib safety: no gaps greater than two and three-eighths inches, nothing sticking outwards or upwards, snug-fitting mattress, no strings, cords or soft items, reliable latch mechanisms, and safe finish. Check each and every crib where your baby rests, whether at day care or hotel or grandparents’ house. Assure yourself that it meets safety standards. Don’t take risks with your baby for even one moment. Your child is likely to use a crib for two or three years, and you’ll want each nap and every night to be a safe, pleasant rest for everyone.
