Did you know that crib manufacturers need to adhere to certain safety standards? As of June 2011, these standards were modified. If you are shopping for a crib for your baby, here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
Manufacturing date
The crib should be made after September 1986. All cribs made before this date are deemed dangerous and must be destroyed. It is considered illegal to sell, advertise or purchase these cribs.
Look for a label
You should see the manufacturing date and some instructions on the label. If no label is available, do not buy the crib. It should not even be sold.
No cut-outs
Don’t buy a crib with decorative cut-outs. These are dangerous for your baby as his head, arms or legs can get stuck in these cut-outs.
Corner posts
Corner posts should not be more than 3mm high. If possible, just don’t choose a crib with a corner post because your child’s clothes can get snagged on them and your child can get stuck.
Paint
Ask the sales attendant what type of paint was used. If it’s lead paint, your child can be in danger of lead poisoning if he chews on the crib. If the sales attendant does not know, go to another store.
Mattress
A tight mattress is very important. The space between the crib and the mattress should not be more than 3cm or you should not be able to fit more than 2 fingers between the crib and the mattress. The mattress should be 15cm thick and below.
Bar spaces or slats
The spaces between the bars should not be more than 6 cm or the width of a soda can. Your child’s head can get stuck if the spaces are too wide.
Drop sides
Parents should avoid cribs with drop sides as they can be very dangerous to your child. There are already several reports of injuries and deaths in the US arising from the use of cribs with drop sides. Choose a crib that has solid sides. In Canada, this type of crib has been recalled. Canada has stricter rules and guidelines for cribs than the US.
Check the parts
Wood or metal parts should not have splinters or burrs. Nuts and bolts should be secure. Check these parts every week to ensure that the crib is safe.
Damages or missing parts
Cribs that have visible damages, broken or missing parts should not be sold or purchased. These cribs must be destroyed as per regulation.
Don’t compromise when it comes to your baby’s crib especially if you have a newborn. Don’t use old cribs and cribs that are damaged. Don’t try to repair them yourself. Choose a brand new crib if possible.
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