It is a sad fact but one we have to come to grips with, not all baby cribs are safe. Baby cribs are supposed to keep your baby safe during sleep but did you know that when badly constructed or improperly assembled a baby crib can be a serious hazard to your child? No matter how expensive the baby crib is parents should use caution when choosing a crib for the nursery, and should follow instructions to the letter.

One of the biggest mistakes some people make is they "assume" that all cribs are safe, but whether you are using a brand new baby crib that you just bought a couple of months ago from a reputable store or recycling the one that you used for your older kids, or a second hand one from a garage sale it is important that you closely inspect the crib for hazardous possibilities as they may be lurking in places that you would not even consider remotely dangerous! Here are some tips that can help keep your child safe in a baby crib.

Close inspection

When buying a baby crib or when you are about to use one, make sure that everything is in place and there are no broken or bent parts. Sharp edges, missing joints and small removable parts in baby cribs can also be dangerous as they can be choking hazards.

Side edges and protrusions can also become strangulation hazards as blankets, necklaces and shirts can be caught. Never buy or use cribs that have these flaws.

Follow the instructions

Never believe that for one-minute you know everything about baby cribs just because you have used one before. And no matter how much knowledge you think you have, it is still imperative that you read the manual and instruction guide.

In addition to providing the step-by-step guide on how to set-up the baby crib from the box, the manual will also contain some tips on how to properly care for your crib and to avoid accidents while using it.

Non-toxic finishes

The baby cribs finish should be made with non-toxic materials that are recommended for young children. As babies’ body systems, especially the immune systems are still developing, it is important that they be protected from chemicals and toxins in the environment. When buying a used baby crib, make sure that the finish is sound and not flaking or peeling, also if it looks like it has been refinished you may want to find a different crib as it would be impossible to know for sure whether it was refinished with a child safe non-toxic material.

Drop sides

Though the dropside mechanism in baby cribs can be very convenient, it can also spell disaster if not working correctly or the latches are not secure. Be sure that when you do put your baby inside the crib, you have raised the drop side and the latches are secured. Some parents may remember to raise it up but forget to secure it, which can lead to accidents.

Keep the crib uncluttered

Remember that the more things inside the baby crib, the greater the chances of an accident, I'm sure you're generally aware that anything can be a potential choking and strangulation hazard. To help avoid this, keep the baby crib to a bare minimum, only placing things that are absolutely necessary like a pillow and a blanket. Toys inside the crib are okay if your baby is awake and playing under supervision, but always remember to remove them when sleeping. Parents are also advised to avoid placing dangling toys on the side of the crib as loose straps may capture your baby and create a strangulation hazard.

Check for alerts and call-backs

The Consumer Product Safety Commission lists safety tips, alerts and call-back warnings on baby cribs on their website at www.cpsc.gov and should be followed.