Please follow this guide to inspect older, secondhand or
hand-me-down cribs in homes, resale or thrift
 stores, lodging facilities, or child care centers.

This graphic illustrates some important elements of crib safety.

Crib Safety Checklist:
Make absolutely certain that the crib has NOT been recalled.  Recall notices can be found online at: www.cpsc.gov  or call the toll-free hotline at: 800-638-2772 for product recall information in English or Spanish.

NOTE: Some crib recalls are minor and can be easily repaired by obtaining repair kits directly from the manufacturer. Unless you know for CERTAIN that the recall was properly repaired, do not trust that the crib is safe.

Crib slats or spindles are spaced NO MORE than 2⅜"  (60 mm) apart. (About the width of a soda can.)

Slats or spindles are not missing, loose, cracked or splintered.

There are no sharp, pointed, rough or jagged edges. 

Wood surfaces are smooth and free from splinters, splits or cracks. No cracked, chipped or peeling paint.

There are no missing, loose, broken or improperly installed screws, bolts, brackets or other hardware on the crib or the mattress support. All hardware should be original or authentic replacements obtained from the manufacturer.

No decorative corner posts or finials that extend more than 1/16" (1½ mm) above the end panels.  (Unless they are over 16" high for a canopy.)

No cutout designs in the end panels. (Headboard or footboard.)

Mattress support is securely attached to end panels and cannot be easily dislodged from corner posts.

A firm, tight fitting mattress. No more than two fingers width between the edge of the mattress and the crib side.

Drop-side latches too difficult to be released by a child.

Other Crib Safety Reminders:
Remember to ALWAYS keep the drop side up when baby is in the crib.

NEVER place a crib near windows, draperies, blinds or wall mounted accessories with long cords.

Mattress should be covered with a well-fitting crib sheet. NEVER use adult sheets.

Do not place pillows, comforters, stuffed animals or other soft items in the crib.

Cribs manufactured before 1990 do NOT meet current safety standards.

If you find a crib that isn't safe... DESTROY IT

It Could Save A Baby's Life!