Rest Assured: Choosing the Right Crib for Baby

The Cost of Safety

Once you understand the CPSC safety standards, you may want to take a closer look at your pocketbook. Some parents splurge thousands to create a stunning nursery suite, but most opt for a simple, well-constructed crib. Many parents find that lower-priced cribs prove perfectly sufficient, while others prefer higher-priced cribs, which are more durable with a variety of designs and finishes. Kasem insists that the price tag should not be the main concern for parents: "A crib is not a splurge, but an investment," she says.

Kasem adds that accessories such as waterproof mattress pads can extend the life of the mattress. "Parents also want mattress pads to provide extra cushioning for the baby," she adds. The best mattresses use fabric binding instead of vinyl and have small, metal-lined holes or a pocket on the side or end to keep the mattress ventilated and prevent the seams from splitting. As for crib sheets, always make sure the sheet fits securely on the mattress and wraps around its corners; most crib sheets are designed for a 6-inch thick mattress.

Do Your Homework

For more information, check the CPSC website. Nychelle Fleming, CPSC Public Affairs Specialist, recommends typing in the crib manufacturer's company or brand name in the search icon "to find out if the crib they have has been recalled."

Fleming adds, "Our Thrift Store Safety Checklist guides consumers regarding the hazards associated with secondhand cribs and other products."

Remember, your child's crib is where he will spend many hours during the first two years of his life. Make it as safe as possible by following these guidelines, and you'll be rewarded with a happy, safe baby!