The End of Drop-Side Cribs

03.25.09 Manufacturers to ban model after major injuries reported

Crib makers are proposing a ban on drop-side cribs because of concerns over infant deaths, injuries and a series of recent recalls, the Chicago Tribune reports.

The cribs in question allow parents to raise and lower one side for easy access. Bad designs, missing pieces and worn-out hardware caused the adjustable railings to separate from cribs, often without parents noticing, the Tribune reports. Babies' bodies slid through the gaps, often resulting in major injuries and in some cases strangulation.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has been weighing tougher federal rules to head off these hazards. The new safety rules would require that all four sides of the crib be rigidly attached to one another, which essentially would end production of the drop-side style. That would eliminate the moving parts that have broken loose and created entrapment hazards. The CPSC also reports that at least three children have died in drop-side cribs in the past 18 months.

A crib is part of the essential big four items for every baby. We have some how-to tips for purchasing the big four, including your child's bed.

Ideally, any gear you rely on to protect your child—from cribs to car seats—should be purchased new because safety standards change. Check out more tips at our lowdown on hand-me-downs.

For more information on your baby and sleep, read our experts' advice on keeping your little one safe while he or she snoozes.

Maria Vega is Fit Pregnancy magazine's copy editor.