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Buying a crib for your baby, particularly a first baby, can be overwhelming. There's such a dizzying array of types, colors, and options, all with bells and whistles galore, that a soon-to-be parent often ends up with information constipation and a migraine to boot.

Let's break it down; what are the important points?

Safety is number one. While it is tempting to take up an offer of a free used crib from a well-meaning friend or relative, exercise caution. New standards instituted in 1974 require stringent guidelines to be met in crib construction to ensure the safety of their nocturnal inhabitants. Crib slats should be no more than 2-3/8" apart to prevent baby's head from getting caught. A good rule of thumb is to use an aluminum soda can; if the upright soda can passes through the slats unhindered, the slats are too far apart. Cribs with cutouts in the headboard or footboard, corner posts that protrude higher than the end panels, and those with lead paint should be destroyed. Parents-to-be that opt to use a pre-owned crib, either given to them or from a previous child, should check the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website for any recalls and safety notices issued for their crib's manufacturer and model number.

Next, consider the life of the crib. Do you want it to last through several children? Convert to a toddler bed or day bed for this child? Or is this a crib for occasional use at grandma's house? Parents can buy an inexpensive crib just about anywhere these days. However, keep in mind that cribs with plastic hardware will not last nearly as long as those with metal hardware; the plastic grows brittle and cracks, or becomes warped, hindering the smooth up and down motion of the drop rail. Cribs that convert to other types of furniture can be a bargain, but read the box carefully at the time of purchase. Often, the upgrade pieces are not included, and you must purchase them at a premium because the conversion pieces for that crib are only available from that manufacturer. Cribs with wheels can be handy for ease of movement, but also make it easy for a rambunctious little one to roll away from a wall with a little experimentation.

Aesthetics. Ah, yes. Of course, you want to pick a beautiful crib that will complete the "look" of your soon-to-be occupied nursery. Online browsing is a great way to get an idea of the different materials and finishes available. Print out pictures of cribs you find particularly pleasing and take them with you to shop in the stores.

Lastly, back to safety. Read the instructions carefully when assembling your crib. Incorrect assembly can make a "safe" crib unsafe. In the event that you need replacement parts down the road due to wear and tear, contact the manufacturer directly. Ordering parts from the original manufacturer, rather than trying to find a close match at your local hardware store, will ensure a secure fit for the new parts and your order will include clear instructions to maintain the safety of your crib.

Now, if you could just get baby to sleep through the night

http://www.nsc.org/librar y/facts/cribtips.htm
http://www .cpsc.gov/

Learn more about this author, Tara Bren.
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