A safe crib has:

• No missing, loose, broken, or improperly-installed screws, brackets, or other hardware on the crib or the mattress support.
• No more than 2 3/8 inches between crib slats so a baby's body cannot fit through the slats.
• A firm, snug-fitting mattress so a baby cannot get trapped between the mattress and the side of the crib.
• No corner posts over 1/16 of an inch above the end panels (unless they are over 16 inches high for a canopy) so a baby cannot catch clothing and strangle.
• No cutout areas on the headboard or foot board so a baby's head cannot get trapped.
• A mattress support that does not easily pull apart from the corner posts so a baby cannot get trapped between mattress and crib.
• No cracked or peeling paint to prevent lead poisoning.
• No splinters or rough edges.
  

Crib Hardware:

• The drop side(s) of the crib should require two distinct actions or a minimum force of ten pounds with one action to release the latch or the locks to prevent accidental release by the child.
• The crib hardware should be checked for disengaged, broken, bent or loose pieces. Special checks should be made of the mattress support hangers and brackets so they cannot drop. The hardware and the crib should be smooth and free of sharp edges, points and rough surfaces.

Crib Accessories:

• Bumper pads should cover the entire inside perimeter of the crib and tie or snap in place. Bumper pads should have at least six straps or ties and any excess length of straps or ties should be cut off. Bumper pads should never be used in lieu of proper spacing between the slats and should be removed from the crib as soon as the child can pull himself to a standing position.
• Teething rails that are damaged should be fixed, replaced or removed immediately.
• To prevent possible entanglement, mobiles and crib gyms, which are meant to be hung over or across the crib, should be removed when the child is five months old or when he begins to push up onto hands and knees or can pull himself up.
• Keep the crib clear of plastic sheets, pillows, and large stuffed animals or toys. These can be suffocation hazards or can enable youngsters to climb out of the crib.
• Any cloth or vinyl items that are loose or torn should be replaced or repaired immediately.

Crib Environment:

• Do not place crib next to a window. Drapery and blind cords pose an entanglement hazard and window screens are not intended to keep a child in, only insects out.
• Install smoke detectors. Follow the manufacturer's directions for placement. Check at least once a month to make sure battery and smoke detector are in good working condition.
• Lead is a health hazard, especially to young children. It can be found in dust and soil off busy roadways, in old paint on walls, toys and furniture and sometimes in paint on new imported items. If you think your child has taken in leaded paint or soil, or you need help with identifying or removing lead paint, call the National Safety Council's National Lead Information Center at 800-424-5323.