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Having a baby? Congratulations! Now brace yourself for the dazzling array of crib options you're about to encounter. The following tips will help you select the best possible crib for your new arrival.
1. Reject all substitutes. Cribs are regulated by the federal government, while other baby beds such as cradles and bassinets are subject to voluntary standards only.
2. Basic is beautiful. You'll see elaborate - and expensive - crib models out there, as well as bumper guards, matching quilts and other accessories. But the best, safest cribs are as basic as possible, without any edges or scrollwork that can catch on clothing and potentially cause strangling. The crib should contain only a mattress and a fitted sheet.
3. Cribs don't make good hand-me-downs. Safety standards constantly are being revised and upgraded, so avoid buying, agreeing to use or lending a used crib if you can. If you must opt for a used crib, make sure it was built after June 1999, when certain voluntary standards went into effect.
4. Know what to expect at the cash register. You can find a nice, simple, new crib for $110 to $200. If you spend $200 to $400, you'll likely get a model with stained or painted softwood, and if you spend more than $400, you'll probably get a hardwood crib with multiple drawers for storage.
5. Do a safety check. Bring a soda can with you to the store and try to fit the can between the crib's slats. If the can fits through, the spacing between them is too wide. Also examine the crib carefully for screws, nuts, bolts, edges and any other items that could catch on your baby's clothing, as well as parts that could come loose and become choking hazards.
6. Is the crib certified? Choose a model certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. That means the manufacturer has agreed to follow additional voluntary standards beyond the required federal standards.
7. Choose the right mattress. Match the mattress with the crib in the store to make sure it fits snugly. You shouldn't be able to fit more than two fingers between the crib and the mattress. Also, look for a breathable mattress with visible ventilation holes.
8. Look for key features. You'll be grateful to have a crib that makes it easy for you to pick up your baby, ideally by allowing you to lift or lower the crib's sides with just one hand. You also might want to consider a crib that has wheels, a utility or storage drawer and the capacity to transform itself into a toddler bed.
9. Follow the right procedures. To reduce the risk of suffocation, babies should be put to bed on their backs without any blankets. Clothe your baby in a one-piece sleeper outfit if you're worried he or she might get cold.
10. Stay informed about recalls. Return the crib's warranty card so you can be contacted about a safety recall. If you get a used crib, register with the manufacturer and check the Web site of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov) to learn of any recalls that have occurred.
Sources: Consumer Reports (www.consumerreports.org) eHow.com (www.eHow.com)