Five Star Safety - Baby Crib

Baby Crib

What to Look for in a Safe Baby Crib

So you're looking for a baby crib! Congratulations on your pending arrival. If you're a first-time parent, you may not know what to look for in a safe baby crib, however. Here are some things to look for:

Make sure the crib is sturdy and does not wobble.
Make sure the drop side of the crib has a stable lock system so the baby can't unlock it or it doesn't come unlocked on its own so the baby doesn't roll out.
Make sure the crib is manufactured in the USA
Make sure the mattress fits right inside the crib. You don't want extra space on the sides because a baby could put his head there an possibly suffocate.

Perhaps the baby crib you have is a hand-me-down or a family heirloom. That's fine, but you should make sure there are no rough edges or cracked wood. Also, make sure the paint isn't peeling. (This is especially important for baby cribs that were manufactured prior to the 1970s because the peeling paint may contain lead.) In addition, make sure the rails are spaced close enough together that a baby's head can't get stuck.

Most manufacturers these days are good about making sure that the baby cribs they produce are safe, so it shouldn't be a problem.

Other Baby Safety Products

What are some other baby safety products you'll need before your baby arrives? Probably one of the most important things (and something you'll need immediately) is a safe car seat. Make sure you get a convertible one that grows with your child. As she grows, you'll have to get a bigger one, but you can put that off longer if you get a convertible one.

Here are some safety products that aren't necessarily necessary, but they will make your life a lot easier:

A high chair
Cabinet and drawer locks
Baby safety gates (if you have stairs that a baby can fall down)
Corner and table edge covers

Of course, if you go to a store like Babies R Us, you're sure to find another baby safety product or two. Try not to go overboard. Then again, it's better to be safe than sorry!