Beware when buying or inheriting used baby products.  Even if they are only a few years old they may not meet today’s standards.  All cribs manufactured before September 1986 do not meet Canadian safety regulations and should not be used.  It is illegal to sell these cribs; however they are often sold at garage sales and flea markets or found in cottages or relatives’ homes.  Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a crib.

Look for a label with the manufactured date.  Cribs manufactured prior to September 1986 or that do not have a label are not safe for use.  Inspect the crib for obvious damage and splinters or cracks.  Also ensure that a complete set of instructions, including a list of parts, is included.

Most cribs have at least two mattress height positions.  The mattress support must be bolted securely to the crib.  Any mattress support that is attached using hooks can dislodge causing entrapment.  This hardware does not meet the current safety standards.  In order to prevent falls, the distance from the mattress support in the highest position to the top rail of the crib should be at least 23 cm.  Also, the distance from the mattress support in the lowest position to the top rail of the crib should be at least 66 cm.  To prevent entanglement the distance between any two slats should not exceed 6 cm and any corner post should not exceed 0.3 cm.

Any crib mattress should have a firm surface and fit snugly on all sides of the crib.  A mattress that is worn down or one that is too soft could cause a gap and trap the baby’s head.  Ensure any mattress used in the crib does not exceed 15 cm.  Also, the space between the mattress and the side of the crib, when the mattress is pushed into one corner, should not exceed 3 cm.

When assembling the crib strictly adhere to the instructions provided.  Place the crib in the room away from lamps, electrical cords, windows, curtains and blind cords.  Avoid placing soft pillows, comforters and soft toys in the crib.  The mattress support should be in the lowest position by the time your baby is able to stand.

If you are in the market for a new crib for your child, view a wide selection in our gallery of cribs.