New Crib Safety Standards

Shopping for a crib can be a daunting task. Today, cribs have more features than ever, with some even capable of converting into toddler beds. However, regardless of the brand, color or style, cribs should not put the lives of infants and toddlers at risk. Now, thanks to new crib safety standards, many potentially dangerous crib features, such as drop-side rails, will no longer be a concern for parents or guardians looking to purchase the safest crib for their child.

As of June 28, 2011, the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) new mandatory crib safety standards went into effect. Any manufacturer, distributor, importer or retailer that sells cribs in the U.S. must comply with the CPSCs new standards immediately. Many retailers and manufacturers, like Swedish furniture maker IKEA, have suspended U.S. sales of cribs to make sure cribs are compliant with the new safety regulations. Day-care facilities, hotels, family childcare homes and rental companies have until December 28, 2012 to comply with the new federal safety standards.

So, what are the new standards? According to the CPSC, the new federal requirements, which apply to full-size and non full-size cribs, are:

• Traditional drop-side cribs cannot be made or sold
• Wood slats must be built stronger
• Crib hardware must have anti-loosening devices
• Mattress supports must be more durable
• Safety testing of cribs must be more rigorous. 

If you currently own a crib that does not meet the new safety regulations and cannot afford to purchase a new one, the CPSC recommends you check the recall list to make sure your crib has not been recalled. Since 2007, more than 11 million dangerous cribs have been recalled. You want to be certain your crib is not one of the 11 million recalled. Second, check the crib frequently to make sure hardware is secured tightly and is not missing or broken. If your crib has drop-side railing, stop using the drop-side feature immediately.

A few manufacturers may already be offering cribs that meet the new regulations, but before purchasing a new crib, make sure the crib complies with the full-size and non full-size crib regulations listed on the CPSCs website. Even if a new crib does not have a drop-side feature, it is unlikely the crib will meet new hardware or testing standards, so it’s always best to double check with the manufacturer. 

If you have questions regarding your current crib or would like more information on the new crib safety standards, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission crib information center website or read the CPSCs article: The New Crib Standard: Questions and Answers. If you believe a dangerous or defective crib was responsible for seriously injuring your child, contact a northern California defective product lawyer today. An experienced defective product lawyer can help you hold the crib manufacturer, distributor or retailer accountable for the damages associated with a serious injury.