Read reviews for the crib online before you buy it. If you received a crib as a gift, check online to see if it meets safety standards. Be sure to choose a crib that you can exchange if needed, such as if it does not meet safety standards or if it does not work for your child’s room.
Visit https://www. recalls. gov to make sure the crib wasn’t recalled. Manufacturers will stop the sale of a crib in stores or online once it’s been recalled.
Most crib parts will come in a cardboard box. Move the entire box rather than unpacking it first.
Common crib parts include screws, bolts, headboard, footboard, support spring, and side panels. If you are missing pieces or find defective pieces, contact the crib manufacturer and request that they send you new ones. Ensure that all pre-assembled parts are properly constructed and screwed together. Loose pieces could create a hazard for your child.
Say something like, “Hey, I need to put together this crib for Mikey and I need some help. Would you mind lending me a hand?”
There may be tips or warnings in the instruction manual that could keep your child safer in the crib. If the directions are missing, you can usually visit the crib manufacturer’s website to find an online set of instructions.
Many cribs will come with the appropriately sized Allen wrench. Some cribs will have the headboard and footboard already attached the crib legs.
There are typically at least 3 screws that attach the side of the crib with the headboard. Don’t turn the screws too hard or you may crack or damage the frame of the crib. Tighten them enough so they are tight but not embedded in the wood.
Typically, the mattress support spring will be attached to both the headboard, side slats, and footboard.
Typically, there will be 3 screws on each side of the footboard that attach to the side slats.
If there is space around the mattress, you should buy a bigger mattress that fits the crib properly.
Ensure that the sheet or mattress protector is tight fitting as well.
Keeping blankets, bumpers, and other soft items out of the crib will also reduce the chances of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. [14] X Research source Use sleep sacks instead of blankets to keep your baby warm. These are wearable blankets that go over their pajamas.
Make sure that there are no large holes in the headboard or footboard or your baby could get stuck in them. If the slats are too large in your crib, purchase another one.
Keep the crib away from the wall because it’s possible that your child could get wedged between the wall and the crib.
Do not put your baby to sleep on their side because they could roll over on their stomach.
