A Crib Is One of The Most Challenging Baby Items to Choose

Economy cribs

Manufacturers might use less-expensive materials and hardware, and simpler finishes and designs, but these models can be adequate. They tend to be lighter in weight than more expensive cribs. Paint or a lacquer-like finish might cover cosmetic wood defects, such as knots and variations in shading.

Mid-priced cribs

You'll find a lot of choices in this price range. These models are sturdier and more decorative than the economy models. They come in an array of wood finishes, such as Scandinavian-style natural, golden maple, or deep mahogany. End boards are usually solid with a smooth finish, and many models have slats on all sides.

High-end cribs

Many of these models are imported from Europe and have hand-rubbed, glazed, or burnished finishes. You'll see styles with curved end boards and hand-painted details, models handcrafted from wrought iron, and even round or ovalcribs. Round cribs are still very much a novelty, and they're not covered under the federal full-size crib regulations.

Portable cribs

Some parents like to use a play yard. Others use a portable crib. A play yard is very compact and can be a great alternative when you're traveling. Unlike a play yard, a portable crib is similar to a regular crib, just smaller. For one thing, they aren't as long as full-sized cribs. Keep in mind that you'll need to buy a mattress and sheets specifically for this smaller crib.

Foam mattresses are generally the least expensive and the lightest option. These are available in a variety of thicknesses, usually between 3 and 6 inches. More important than thickness, though, is density. The better foam mattresses are high density, about 1.5 pounds per cubic foot. Unfortunately, most foam mattresses don't list density on the packing, so it's hard to know exactly what you're getting.

Slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart: Your crib should have slats that are close enough together to prevent your baby's head from slipping through or getting stuck. The distance between the crib slats must be no more than 2 3/8 inches (about the size of a soda can)

Adjustable mattress height: Most cribs let you change the height of the crib mattress by simply raising or lowering the mattress support. The time to lower the mattress is when your child begins sitting up. As kids get more active and move to pulling up and standing, you don't want them to climb or fall out of the crib.

Stability: Give the crib a good shake in the store or after you put it together at home. If it wobbles or rattles, it may have been put together improperly. But wobbling or rattling could also be a sign that you should look for a sturdier crib.
 

Frame size: The crib interior should snugly accommodate a standard crib mattress – at least 51 3/4 inches long by 27 3/4 inches wide. If you can fit more than two fingers between the side of the mattress and the crib, the mattress is too small. This poses a significant danger, as babies can get trapped in that space. Make sure that with a mattress in place, the crib sides are tall enough to keep your baby safely inside.

Versatility: Many cribs are designed to convert to a toddler bed, a children's bench, or even the headboard and footboard for a full-size bed. While this sounds appealing, make sure that the crib makeover is relatively easy to perform and that you like the look of the new furniture.

Safe corner posts: If the crib has corner posts, they should be no higher than 1/16 of an inch (unless they're over 16 inches high to support a canopy). If corner posts are higher than 1/16 of an inch, clothing can catch on them and injure or choke an infant.

Cribs with drop sides: The rule is simple: Don't use them. The movable railings known as drop sides were common on cribs for decades, but can pose a serious hazard to babies. If the drop side detaches or comes loose, a baby can become entrapped and strangle or suffocate in the space between the drop side and the crib mattress.

Bumpers: Crib bumpers–padding that attaches to the inside railings of the crib to cushion all four sides–pose a hazard and are no longer recommended. Bumpers are still a standard feature of crib bedding sets, but a number of organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, now discourage them as a SIDS risk.

Old cribs: Cribs made before 1973, when federal guidelines went into effect, are more likely than newer models to have safety problems. Secondhand cribs may also have splinters, lead paint, potentially dangerous features, or slats that are too far apart. But even models manufactured 1991 can be unsafe, so be sure to check slat space size and stability, and look out for any sharp edges, protruding metal, peeling paint, and other dangers.

Decorative touches: Avoid fancy decorations that can break off and pose a choking hazard. Cribs with cutout designs along the rail may look pretty, but they could inadvertently trap your baby's arm or neck.