Drop-side cribs, which allow for one side of the crib to temporarily lower to provide easier access to the baby, are dangerous and have been banned since 2011. “I’d be very nervous about that because you won’t know if there’s missing hardware unless you have the assembly instructions.” The same goes for “open box” cribs that were previously bought and returned they could be missing parts, so it’s best to avoid purchasing these. “Sometimes a used crib may be passed on to you disassembled,” says Joan Muratore, test program leader at Consumer Reports. If there’s no clear label, don’t use the crib. If you can’t decipher the manufacturing date from the lot number or lot code, call the manufacturer and ask. Typically, these codes appear in a discreet spot on the crib frame, or underneath the mattress support.

Check the crib for a label that includes the model number and the manufacturing date or lot code, as well as contact info for the manufacturer. If for any reason you must buy (or borrow) a used crib, make sure it’s a stationary-side crib manufactured after 2013, because federal safety standards for stationary-side cribs went into effect in 2011 (the two additional years provide a bit of safety wiggle room). Do not put toys, crib bumpers, blankets, pillows, or other products in the crib with the baby.Babies can roll into crevices in sleep spaces, such as between a mattress and a headboard, or be smothered by pillows or their parent rolling over. The baby should sleep by themselves in their sleep space, never with another person.Inclined surfaces can cause babies to suffocate. Babies should sleep on a firm, flat, non-inclined surface.

That can be boiled down to a few simple rules: There, you’ll find information about different crib prices, a look at how we tested models, shopping and safety features, and more.īefore we get to the fun stuff, though, remember that no matter what crib you choose, you should always keep safe sleep practices in mind. So what should you consider when choosing the bed where your little one will spend most of their time in their first few months of life? We’ve broken down the basics below, but for a more comprehensive look, check our cribs buying guide.

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