Drop-side cribs, which featured rail sides that could be lowered and raised with a mechanism, have been phased out in recent years due to potential safety hazards. There have been reports of infants rolling or climbing out of the crib when the side rail was lowered, along with numerous cases of kids becoming entrapped by the poorly-designed hardware.
In addition, the cribs have been known to collapse due to weakened joints due to the lowering and rising of the side rail. The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) stopped the sale of drop-side cribs in 2010, citing their numerous safety risks.
The only dropside cribs that are still legally sold are those that have been retrofitted with approved safety devices. Having more than one side fixed helps to eliminate any potential entrapment hazards, and promotes safer sleeping environments for children.
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Why did they stop making drop side cribs?
Drop side cribs were once the most popular style of cribs on the market, but in 2011 the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted to ban them due to safety concerns. This ban made it illegal for retailers, manufacturers, and resellers to sell, make, or even promote their use.
The CPSC took this drastic measure after reports of toddlers suffocating and strangling due to design defects within the drop side of the cribs. Common defects included screws and hardware within the sides of the cribs becoming loose and detached over time, causing the drop side to separate from the main body of the crib and allowing an opening large enough for a child to become stuck.
Additionally, there have been reported cases of infants becoming trapped between the mattress and the drop side and subsequently suffocating. The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 mandated the implementation of mandatory standards for all full-sized and non-full sized cribs and established minimum testing requirements that all manufacturers must meet prior to cribs entering the market.
The new testing requirements effectively eliminated most of the newer styled drop side cribs that had been popular due to their convenience.
Do they make drop side cribs anymore?
No, they do not. Drop-side cribs are no longer manufactured or sold in stores. This is due to the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banning them from sale due to concerns that the drop-side mechanism can malfunction, which can lead to the risk of entrapment or strangulation.
To ensure the safety of infants and toddlers in a crib, the CPSC recommends buying a traditional non-drop side crib, or a newer crib with a fixed side. There are also alternative sleep spaces available for babies, such as bassinets or play yards that are specifically designed for infant and toddler sleep.
Are cribs with drop rails safe?
Drop-side cribs are not considered safe due to the growing number of incidents in which the drop side has partially or completely detached. The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has released advisories and guidelines against the continued use of these products, recommending that individuals with a drop-side crib immediately stop using it.
In 2011, the CPSC voted to ban the manufacture and sale of drop-side cribs in the United States, and to require all new cribs to meet higher safety standards. Within the new standards, drop-side cribs are deemed unsafe because of the side-rail’s propensity to detach, which can cause deadly accidents.
The incidence of infant death or injury due to drop-side cribs is considerably higher when compared to non-drop side cribs, which is why the CPSC has strongly discouraged its usage. There have also been incidents of pinched or entrapped fingers, limbs and babies’ heads, due to the crib’s drop side malfunctioning or detaching.
Additionally, the lack of proper securement of the mattress can result in serious gaps between the mattress and the crib side, which can potentially lead to suffocation or entrapment.
It’s recommended that cribs with drop rails be retired, as they can pose a significant risk to babies, even with regular maintenance and inspections. Cribs and other sleep environment products that meet the current safety standard of the CPSC are considered the safest, and should always be the primary option.
Are drop side cribs with metal hardware safe?
Drop side cribs with metal hardware are generally safe if they are in good condition and have not been recalled by the manufacturer. However, due to the potential risk of entrapment, suffocation, and other safety hazards associated with drop side cribs, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents and caregivers only use drop side cribs that have not been recalled and are in excellent condition.
Additionally, it is important to inspect drop side cribs regularly and to make sure that they are properly assembled and all screws, pins, and other hardware are securely in place. If there is any wear or damage to the drop side crib or to the metal hardware, it should be immediately fixed, or the crib should be replaced with a different model.
Furthermore, it is always important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and installation of all cribs.
Are cribs from 1990 safe?
No, cribs from 1990 are not considered safe by today’s safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has revised standards for cribs several times since then. In 2011, the CPSC revised the standards to require a stronger and sturdier structure, the elimination of dangerous hardware, and improved mattress support.
There are other safety aspects, such as dropside hardware, side height, movable parts, mattress, and other components that have been improved over the years. Additionally, many cribs from 1990 have been recalled due to dangerous hardware, such as peg buttons and faulty hardware.
Cribs built prior to 2011 may also omit features that can assist in a safe sleep environment, such as a release mechanism, anti-entrapment requirements, and adjustable mattress heights.
Therefore, if you have a crib from 1990, it is strongly recommended that you upgrade to a new crib that meets current safety standards.
Are drop cribs illegal in the US?
In the United States, it is illegal to manufacture, distribute, sell, or use a drop crib, also known as a fall-down crib, which is a type of crib designed to collapse when pressure is applied to the side or end of the crib rail.
The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a ban on these cribs in 1988, based on the fact that they can potentially result in a fatal entrapment or strangulation hazard for infants. It is also illegal for a used drop crib to be donated or resold, as it poses the same potential hazards when used by another family.
The CPSC has warned consumers to immediately stop using drop cribs if they own one, and either destroy it or return it to the store or manufacturer for a full refund or replacement.
Are Side sleeping cribs safe?
Side sleeping cribs can be a safe and practical way for parents to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), however it is important to use them safely. Side sleeping cribs are specially designed to provide more space for babies to move around, and can make them more comfortable for them to sleep in.
While this type of crib is not a guaranteed prevention of SIDS, it is an option that can help reduce the risk in comparison to traditional cribs.
However, there are some important safety considerations to make when using side sleeping cribs. For example, side sleeping cribs must be used as directed and should always be placed on a solid, flat surface away from windows, curtains, or other objects that a baby could reach or grab onto.
A baby should also never be left unattended while in the side sleeping crib. The mattress should fit snugly in the crib, with no gaps between it and the sides of the crib. Crib mattress covers should be avoided, as they can impede air flow and increase the risk of suffocation.
Overall, when used properly, side sleeping cribs can be a safe and practical solution for parents seeking to reduce the risk of SIDS. It is important to use them as directed and closely monitor your baby using this type of sleep environment.
Can any crib be a side car?
No, not all cribs can be a side car. Side car cribs are specifically designed with a locking mechanism on one side of the crib to make it easier to attach to the side of a bed. These types of cribs also tend to be more lightweight than standard cribs as they may need to be moved around more frequently.
Before buying a crib to use as a side car, you should check the specifications and make sure it is the right type of crib. Additionally, side car cribs are safe to use according to safety standards, but it is always advised to double check the safety standards yourself.
How do I know if my crib meets safety standards?
When shopping for a crib, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website to see what safety standards and guidelines have been established for cribs. Generally, if your crib mattress is firm, the bars are not more than 2-3/8 inches apart, and the latches work properly, then it meets the safety standards.
It is also important to buy a crib that is designed to include all of the necessary safety features, including a secure locking mechanism and secure screws for installation. Additionally, make sure the sides move up and down easily, with the mattress in its lowest level.
Also, when assembling the crib, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Begin by reading the owner’s manual to make sure that all safety guidelines are followed. Finally, check with your local government agency to see if your state has any additional regulations regarding cribs.
What is the most popular crib?
The most popular type of crib for new parents could be a convertible crib. These cribs transition from a crib to a toddler bed as a child grows, and you can often also buy a conversion kit to make it into a full-size bed later.
Convertible cribs are popular because they offer the longest use, potentially saving parents money in the long run by staying with the same bed through all the stages of childhood. Additionally, convertible cribs come in a variety of styles, so you can find one to suit whatever décor you have in the nursery.
Who makes the baby cribs?
Baby cribs can be made by a variety of different manufacturers. Many companies specialize in making baby furniture and accessories, so it may depend on what type or brand of crib you are looking for.
Some popular baby furniture makers include DaVinci, Million Dollar Baby, Sorelle, Graco, Dream On Me, Storkcraft, and Baby Cache. It is also possible to find more unusual and handmade cribs from specialty manufacturers or specialized online stores.
It is important to check reviews and safety recommendations for any crib you are considering, since the safety and reliability of a baby crib is of great importance.
What kind of baby bed is best?
Choosing the right baby bed is an important decision as it is meant to be a safe, comfortable, and secure place for your baby to rest, nap, and grow. The best kind of baby bed will be one that meets these three criteria – safety, security and comfort.
Safety: A safe baby bed should have rounded edges, no sharp points, no corner posts over 1/16 inch (1. 6 mm) high, and a slat spacing no wider than 2 3/8 inch (60 mm). Mattress fits should also be checked to make sure that the mattress fits snugly against all four sides.
Security: A secure baby bed will have sturdy sides, a lockable safety belt, or a mesh side wall that can be pulled down over the mattress. This will ensure that your baby has no way of falling out of the bed.
Comfort: Comfort is key when it comes to your baby’s bed, as it should be where your little one drifts off to sleep. To get the best night’s sleep, you should look for a mattress that is soft enough to be comfortable but firm enough to be supportive.
The size of the bed should also be considered – while it is important to get one large enough to keep your baby comfortable, it should also not be too large as this can make it unsafe if your baby moves around too much.
In conclusion, there is no perfect single type of baby bed that is perfect for all babies, as each baby’s needs are different. However, by taking into consideration the criteria of safety, security and comfort, you should be able to find a bed that meets the needs of your little one.
Which is the safest baby crib?
When it comes to the safety of your baby, the safest baby crib is one that has been certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). This certification ensures that the crib has been rigorously tested and meets all the current relevant safety standards, such as those issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
When looking for a safe crib, make sure it meets all applicable federal safety standards, including ASTM and CPSC standards. Also, it should have a sturdy frame, wood slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, adjustable mattress support, no more than one inclined position, and smooth edges with no sharp edges or fasteners.
If a crib is painted or treated with a special finish, make sure it is lead-safe and non-toxic. Even the design should be considered carefully. For example, drop-side cribs can pose a risk of entrapment or suffocation, so a stationary crib should be chosen instead.
For added safety, check that the manufacturer’s instruction manual specifies how to assemble the crib correctly, as this is an important part of preventing accidents. If your crib was purchased second-hand, make sure it meets current standards and is in good condition, with no missing parts.
Regularly check that screws and other fasteners are still tight, to ensure the crib remains stable and secure.
How do I choose a crib for my newborn?
Choosing the right crib for your newborn is extremely important. Before heading to the store, it is important to make note of how much space you have available, as well as how much money you would like to spend.
Once you have a rough idea, you can begin to browse for cribs.
When you start looking around, you should take note of all the safety regulations that the crib should meet. This includes having slats that can’t be more than 2 3/8 inches apart, securely screwed corners, and bumps or stow away parts that are too sharp.
In addition, it is important to make sure the side of the crib has no more than 3/4 inches gap between the side wall and mattress and that the base is adjustable to allow for the mattress being higher and lower with your growing baby.
After making sure you have a crib that meets all the safety regulations, it is important to also consider convenience and comfort. Think of features like one-hand lock or swivelling wheels; this will make it much easier on you to move the crib around when need be.
Consider your installed safety features: drop sides, mesh liners, canopy, and monitor attachments. Finally, take into consideration bedding options, such as bumpers, mattress sheets and pads.
As you look for cribs for your newborn, keep in mind the size, safety regulations, convenience, comfort and bedding options available. Doing so will help you find the best crib for your baby that allows you to make sure your little one is safe, comfortable and secure.
