Baby Crib Safety Standards

Any new baby crib you purchase is supposed to meet minimum government requirements. If you assemble it to the manufacturer's instructions and use the crib properly, even the least expensive crib should be safe for baby. Occasionally, an unsafe crib slips through, though, so keep an eye on current baby products recalls, just in case. A safe crib should have a firm, tight-fitting mattress, no missing/broken hardware or slats and no cutouts in the head- or foot-boards. Slats should be no more than 2 3/8" apart (the width of a soda can). Corner posts should not be higher than 1/16".

• Is Your Antique Baby Crib Safe?


• Current Baby Products Recalls

Should the Baby Crib Have Drop Sides or Stationary Sides?

Baby cribs come with stationary sides or single-drop or double-drop sides that slide down. Another option is a drop-gate crib with a fold-down side. While drop sides are convenient and popular, new warnings from CPSC indicate that they could present serious safety issues. New crib safety standards are expected soon, and manufacturers may not be allowed to make new drop-side cribs. Until the safety issues are hammered out, stick with a stationary side crib.