Key takeaways
- Since June 28, 2011, every crib sold in the U.S. must meet federal crib standards; traditional drop-side cribs are banned.
- Slats no more than 2⅜ inches apart, a firm and tight-fitting mattress, and a fitted sheet only.
- Babies should sleep on their back, on a firm, flat surface, in the parents' room but not their bed.
What federal rules already guarantee
The Consumer Product Safety Commission's crib standards took effect on June 28, 2011. Since then, traditional drop-side cribs cannot be made or sold, and immobilizers or repair kits for old drop-side cribs are not allowed. The rules also require stronger wood slats, anti-loosening hardware and more durable mattress supports, backed by tougher testing.[2]
The measurements to check
2⅜ in
Maximum gap between crib slats (about a soda can's width)[1]
1/16 in
Maximum corner-post height, so clothing can't catch[1]
< ¼ in
Mesh openings on mesh-sided cribs and play yards[1]
The mattress should be firm and fit tightly, so there is no gap where a baby could get trapped between the mattress and the crib frame.[1]
Safe sleep: what goes in the crib (almost nothing)
- Place your baby on their back for every nap and at night.[3]
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface that does not indent under the baby; the AAP warns that any surface inclined more than 10 degrees is unsafe for sleep.[3]
- Use a fitted sheet only. No pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, bumper pads or stuffed toys.[1,3]
- Share a room, not a bed, for at least the first six months; the AAP says this can lower SIDS risk by up to 50%.[3]
- Skip inclined sleepers, baby nests and weighted blankets, sleepers or swaddles.[3]
What to look for when you shop
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Crib | Sold new in the U.S. after June 2011; no drop side; hardware tight |
| Mattress | Firm; no gap when pushed toward any side of the crib |
| Sheet | Fitted, made for your mattress size |
| Bassinet or play yard | Meets CPSC standards; mesh openings under ¼ in |
| Sleep sack | Wearable blanket instead of loose bedding; not weighted |
Before the first night
- No drop side, and all hardware tight
- Slats no more than 2⅜ in apart
- Mattress firm with no gaps at the edges
- Fitted sheet only: no bumpers, pillows or toys
- Crib in the parents' room
Sources
Every figure in this guide comes from the official sources below. We summarize them in our own words; check the source for the full guidance.
- 1Crib Safety TipsU.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- 2The New Crib Rules (flyer)U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- 3How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy ExplainedHealthyChildren.org, American Academy of Pediatrics
This guide is general consumer information, not medical, legal or professional advice. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your product. See our editorial policy and affiliate disclosure.
