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Choosing a Crib
Home » Nursery » Cribs » Choosing a CribThere are several points to think about before choosing the crib:
• The slats on the side of the crib should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart so that baby cannot squeeze his head through. This could result in strangulation.
• The wood on the crib should be smooth and splinter-free, and all joints and parts should fit tightly together.
• The corner posts of a crib should be flush with the end panels, or else they should be tall enough (like a canopy bed) to prevent clothing and other objects from catching onto the corner posts and strangling the baby.
• Look for cribs that have adjustable mattress heights so that the mattress can be lowered as the child reaches different milestones, such as sitting and pulling up. Although you want to find a crib that is easily adjustable, make sure it is not easy enough for your child to figure out.
• It is convenient to purchase a crib that has one (and sometimes even two) sides that drop down. This makes putting baby in and getting baby out of the crib much easier. However, make sure that the sides are at least 26 inches above the mattress at its lowest position so that baby cannot fall out. This is especially important when baby starts sitting up on his own. When the sides are lowered, ensure they are still at least 9 inches above the mattress. Also, raise and lower the sides several times while you are crib shopping to make sure they are easy to operate. You will want to be able to raise and lower the sides with one hand, as you will oftentimes have a sleeping baby in the other.
• While out shopping for your crib, give the model a good shake to check the sturdiness. You do not want a crib that jiggles when shaken, but a durable, sturdy one.
• You may find a few different shapes and sizes of cribs, but the most common mattress fits a crib frame that is 51 ¾ inches long and 27 ¾ inches wide. If you choose to buy an irregularly sized crib, make sure the mattress is a snug fit – you do not want to have more than two finger-widths of space between the mattress and the crib frame.
• A lot of cribs come with wheels, or casters, which can make moving the crib to change sheets or even vacuuming much easier. Keep in mind that metal wheels last longer than plastic ones.
• Cribs come in several models that may convert to other types of beds such as toddler beds, day beds or even full-sized beds. This can save you an extra purchase when baby is ready to move out of his crib.
• Avoid purchasing a crib that has unnecessary decorative features such as finials that can break off and become choking hazards. Also, cribs with cutout designs at the head and foot of the bed should be avoided so that baby does not get his head stuck in these holes.
• Always look for the Juvenile Product Manufacturer’s Association (JPMA) certification before you purchase your crib.
• There are several things to consider when buying a used crib. Check for cracked or peeling paint and ensure that the paint is lead-free and safe for nursery furniture. Check the slats to make sure they are 2 3/8 inches apart. Also look for sharp edges, protruding metal and be sure the owner’s manual and all hardware are present. You may be able to call the manufacturer to request new hardware if pieces are missing.
It is a good idea to shop for your crib several months before baby comes. Most retailers have to order your crib from the manufacturer, and it could several weeks before the bed comes in. You can expect to pay $100 - $500 for a standard crib, but fancier models can cost as much as $800 - $1000, or even more.
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