Choosing the Perfect Baby Crib for Your Little One

The crib is the primary resting place for your newborn at home. It provides a safer and more comfortable sleeping environment compared to alternatives like bassinets, cradles, or bedside sleepers. When selecting a crib, opt for one that is JPMA certified to ensure safety and quality. Our guide will help you find the safest and most suitable crib for your baby’s comfort and security.

Start with a simple design:
Choose a crib without intricate finials or scrollwork, as tiny clothes may catch on these details, posing safety risks. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has banned drop-side cribs due to their association with infant fatalities.

Opt for a basic, standards-compliant crib that guarantees stability, strong slats, and reliable mattress support.

Prioritize safety:
Avoid purchasing used cribs, especially those over 10 years old, as they may not meet current safety standards. Check the gaps between slats — they should not exceed 2 3/8 inches. Also, examine for sharp edges, bulging parts, loose nuts, screws, posts, or knobs that could harm your baby.

Choose a firm mattress:
Test the mattress for firmness by pressing down; it should bounce back quickly. Soft mattresses significantly increase the risk of SIDS. Legally, a full-size crib mattress should measure 27 ¼ inches by 51 5/8 inches and not be thicker than 6 inches. Ensure the mattress fits snugly and use fitted sheets to prevent entanglement. Avoid including stuffed animals or bumper pads in the crib, as they are suffocation hazards.

Safety tips for your baby's crib:
Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
Verify that the crib has not been recalled.
Regularly inspect and tighten hardware and screws.
Remove mobiles once your baby begins pushing limbs.
Keep the crib away from windows, curtains, blinds, and toys to prevent accidents.
Ensure monitor cords are out of your baby's reach.
Cease using the crib immediately once your child can climb out.