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How to Choose a Safe Crib (and Whether to Use a Bumper)

Tap each step to work through choosing a safe crib.

  1. Check for a recognized safety certification

    Cribs sold in your country are usually required to meet a national safety standard for infant furniture β€” look for the certification mark and number on the product, and confirm the exact requirements on the product page or with customer support.

  2. Check the slat spacing

    Make sure the gaps between crib slats are narrow enough that a baby's head, arms, or legs can't get stuck; check the exact spacing requirement in the product's certification details.

  3. Check how snugly the mattress fits the frame

    If you can fit more than a couple of fingers between the mattress and the crib frame, there is a suffocation risk, so use a mattress sized precisely for your crib.

  4. Decide carefully whether to use a bumper

    Soft cushioned crib bumpers have been linked to suffocation and overheating risks, and many safety guidelines advise against using them, especially with newborns β€” check the latest safety recommendations and product guidance before deciding.

  5. Check when it's time to stop using the crib

    Once a baby can pull themselves up to standing, the risk of climbing or falling out increases, so plan ahead for lowering the mattress height or switching to a toddler bed or another sleep setup.

Check suffocation and fall risks before design

A crib is where a baby spends a large share of their day, so it's safest to check safety factors like slat spacing and mattress fit first, then consider design and extra features afterward. Exact certification numbers and standard values vary by product, so always re-verify the product details before buying.

Build a consistent sleep routine once the setup is safe

Once you have a safe sleep environment in place, working on a consistent bedtime routine β€” same steps, same order, similar time each night β€” can help a baby settle into sleep more predictably over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should crib bumpers never be used at all?

They aren't universally banned, but because of the suffocation and overheating concerns that have been raised, if you do use one, choose a thin, breathable option, and be especially cautious if your baby tends to sleep on their stomach.

How long can a baby use a crib?

Once your baby can pull up to standing or is tall enough to climb over the rail, it's time to consider switching to a toddler bed or another sleep arrangement.