Keeping their child safe is the most important thing in the life of a parent. Babies are a top priority when it comes to safety. What are some of the most common defects parents should look out for when it comes to their child’s crib?

Ensure that the crib mattress is firm and that, when fitted into the crib has no gaps around each side that the baby could fit between.

What kind of condition is the crib in? Are there any screws, bolts or hardware that may be missing or worn? What about any cracks or splits in the wood? Look for pointed or sharp edges.

Any type of crib that has some kind of decorative cutout either in the headboard or footboard should not be used. A baby could easily get their head or limbs stuck in them.

Constantly check for any kind of choking hazards. While it is nice to hang a mobile above the crib, be careful not to hang one within a baby’s reach. Mobiles are meant for the baby to look at, not be able to handle, and while crib mobiles today are designed to be out of a baby’s reach, this might not have been thought of if it has been hand made or not designed specifically for the crib. It would be best to remove the mobile once the baby is old enough to reach it themselves.

Babies overheat very easily. While a baby is sleeping in a crib, it should sleep in a sleeper instead of a quilt or blanket. Remove pillows or soft bedding in the crib as well.

It is always good to give your crib a periodic check, to make sure it is safe for your baby.