• The safest product for your sleeping baby is a full-size crib, portable crib, play yard or bassinette that meets current safety standards.
• Look for products that are sturdy and not wobbly.
• For added protection, avoid drop-side cribs.
• Choose a firm mattress that bounces back quickly after you push your hand down on it.
• Be sure the mattress fits snugly, with no more than one inch (two fingers) between the mattress and side of the crib. Mattresses that don’t fit snugly can cause your baby to suffocate!
• Always use the mattress sold with the product if choosing a play yard or bassinette and don’t add in any extra padding.
• For products with slats, be sure slats are no more than 2 3/8” apart (the width of a soda can). All new cribs meet this requirement.
• For products with mesh, be sure the holes are no more than ¼” in diameter.
• Do not choose a crib, bassinette or play yard with a cutout area on the head or foot boards.
• Do not choose play yards or bassinettes with soft or fluffy sides. This can pose a suffocation hazard for your baby once he or she starts moving around or rolling over. Be sure that corner posts on cribs are less than 1/16” high.

Last Updated: Sep 30, 2010