Buying A Used Crib Apr 2026

Check the spacing between the slats. They should be no more than (about the width of a standard soda can). If a soda can fits through the slats, so could a baby’s head or body, posing a serious strangulation risk. 4. Structural Integrity Check When inspecting the crib in person:

If the crib was made before 1978, it likely contains lead paint. Even if it was made later but "refinished" by a hobbyist, skip it unless you are certain the paint is non-toxic and lead-free. 3. The "Soda Can" Slat Test buying a used crib

Before handing over cash, look up the brand and model number on Recalls.gov . 5. The Mattress Exception Check the spacing between the slats

These were banned in 2011. The moving parts can break or malfunction, creating a gap where a baby can become trapped and suffocate. regardless of the price:

Avoid any crib that includes the following, regardless of the price:

Check the spacing between the slats. They should be no more than (about the width of a standard soda can). If a soda can fits through the slats, so could a baby’s head or body, posing a serious strangulation risk. 4. Structural Integrity Check When inspecting the crib in person:

If the crib was made before 1978, it likely contains lead paint. Even if it was made later but "refinished" by a hobbyist, skip it unless you are certain the paint is non-toxic and lead-free. 3. The "Soda Can" Slat Test

Before handing over cash, look up the brand and model number on Recalls.gov . 5. The Mattress Exception

These were banned in 2011. The moving parts can break or malfunction, creating a gap where a baby can become trapped and suffocate.

Avoid any crib that includes the following, regardless of the price: