Baby Crib Buyer's Guide

The baby crib is one of the most important purchases you will make for your new baby. The crib will be used until your child moves on to a full sized bed at around the age of 2 or possibly 3. As a result, care should be taken when choosing the right crib for you.

Types of Baby Cribs

Standard Baby Cribs: There are two types of standard baby cribs: single drop side and double drop side.
Single Drop Side Crib: This crib has only one side that raises and lowers so that you can easily get the baby in and out of the crib.
Double Drop Side Crib: These cribs have two sides that raise and lower making it easy to access from either side.

Convertible Baby Crib: Convertible cribs will convert from a standard crib into a toddler bed or possibly a day or full-sized bed. These are often more expensive, but they can last you longer because you don't have to purchase a full-size bed when your baby outgrows the crib.

Canopy Baby Crib: Canopy cribs have four corner posts that hold a metal frame covered in a fabric canopy.

Round Baby Crib: Round cribs are increasing in popularity and typically have a single drop side.

Features to look for when choosing your baby's crib

Safety: The most important part is your child's safety. Follows these rules to ensure your baby is safe in their crib .

The distance between crib slats are should not be more that 2 3/8 inches.

When the drop sides are lowered, the should still be at least 9 inches above the mattress support.

When drop sides are raised, they should be at least 26 inches above the mattress support.

Your crib's mattress should fit snugly with no more than two fingers width between the sides of the cri and the mattress.

The drop sides should have a secure locking mechanism.

Make sure there are no loose or peeling paint, rough corners and edges, or splinters

Mattress support: Make sure your new crib has sturdy mattress supports that connect to the crib sides securely. Keep in mind metal mattress supports will support a jumping toddler more than wood mattress supports.

Adjustable mattress height: You will be able to lower the mattress as your child grows. This allows your crib to safely stay in use longer. Cribs without adjusable mattress height may need to be replaced sooner.

Rolling Casters with some kind of wheel lock: This is a nice feature when moving your crib to change sheets or clean.

Teething rail: Toddler's like to chew. A good teething rail on the top of the sides will keep them from chewing on the wood crib.

Optional products for cribs:

Attachable toys that tie to the railings and musical mobiles that attach to the crib rail both provide entertainment, stimulation and help develop coordination.

Sleep positioners position your baby on his or her back or side.

Teething rails made of plastic can be attached to the rails, which prevent your child from chewing on the wood.

Bumper guards that line all four sides of the crib.

What to avoid:

It is best to avoid cribs made before 1973. Cribs made before this time may contain lead paint, have splinters, have slats that are to far apart and many other dangers. Cribs that were manufactured even as recently as 1990 can have safety problems. If you are thinking of using or buying a second hand crib, make sure it has not been recalled.

Has my crib been recalled?

Check these sources to look for crib recalls:

Consumer Reports - http://www.consumerreports.org/main/home.jsp

Consumer Product Safety Commission - http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prerel.html

Always send in your product registration card. This is how you will be notified in case of a recall.