Crib Safety: What Should I Look For?

A safe crib meets the current US federal standard, in effect since June 28, 2011, which banned drop-side cribs from being made or sold. Look for slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, a firm mattress that fits snugly (no more than two fingers should fit between the mattress and the crib side), no decorative cutouts, and corner posts no higher than 1/16 inch. And for safe sleep, keep the crib bare.

Buy a crib that meets the current standard

In 2011, US crib standards were updated for the first time in about 30 years, and traditional drop-side cribs were banned from manufacture and sale. Any new crib sold today must meet the federal standard. (You can still own an older crib, but if it predates 2011 it likely does not comply.)

Slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart

Crib slats should be no more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart, about the width of a soda can, so a baby cannot slip through or get trapped.

A firm mattress with a snug fit

The mattress must be firm and fit snugly against all sides. A simple check: if you can fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib side, the fit is too loose.

Solid ends and low corner posts

Headboards and footboards should be solid, with no decorative cutouts where a head or limb could get caught. Corner posts should be no higher than 1/16 inch so clothing and cords cannot snag.

Keep the crib bare for sleep

For safe sleep, the AAP recommends baby sleeps alone, on their back, on a firm flat surface, covered only by a fitted sheet. Keep pillows, blankets, quilts, bumpers, and soft toys out of the crib. (Crib bumpers and inclined sleepers were federally banned in 2022.) Supervised, awake tummy time is encouraged separately.

Be careful with hand-me-down cribs

An older or second-hand crib may not meet the current standard, may have wider slat spacing or drop-side hardware, and antiques can carry lead paint. Check the model against CPSC recalls before use and confirm all hardware is present and tight.

What certifications mean

Every new crib sold in the US must meet the mandatory CPSC standard, that is the legal minimum. A JPMA certification (now also branded Baby Safety Alliance Verified) is a voluntary program where the product is independently tested to federal regulations and the ASTM standard, a signal that a crib goes beyond the legal floor.