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A Safe Place to Sleep
A Guide to Crib and Mattress Safety
By Lyn Mettler
Many parents may worry about the expense of a new crib and instead use older cribs or hand-me-downs, but Lineweaver says it's simply not worth it. "The cost of a new crib, while substantial, is nothing compared to the pain and suffering associated with a crib injury or accidental death," she says. "Resist your mom or mother-in-law's effort to have you use the crib that you or your husband were raised in."
Fleming suggests asking friends and family to help. "In lieu of a 'baby shower' with lots of gifts, ask friends and family to consider pooling money together to purchase a new crib that meets current standards," she says.
An organization independent from the government called the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association also offers certification that goes above and beyond government standards. While Bette LaGow, managing editor for Consumer Reports Guide to Baby Products, recommends you buy a crib with the JPMA seal, Severson feels it is unnecessary. She says that just because the crib does not have that certification does not mean that it's not safe.
One of the best tests for the safety of a crib is to measure the distance between the slats. "That's probably the key factor with the safety regulations," says LaGow. The slats should be no further than 2 3/8 inches apart or about the width of a soda can. If the can goes through easily, it's too wide.
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