New crib requirements passed by CPSC will stop traditional drop-side cribs from being made and sold within the next six months. The new crib requirements are among the most stringent in the world.
Those of you who already own cribs that do not meet the requirements of this new rule — especially drop-side cribs — need to know what to do with your cribs or the cribs that you need to buy in the next six months.
First, it’s important to remember that a non-recalled, sturdy crib is the SAFEST place for your baby to sleep. Second, if you own a drop-side crib regularly check your crib for safety.
While CPSC staff cannot say that every drop-side crib is hazardous, based on investigations of incidents we have received, agency staff believes that most drop-side cribs are more prone to mechanical failure than similarly designed fixed-side cribs.
Some drop-side crib manufacturers have immobilizers that fit their cribs. Drop-side crib immobilizers are devices that are used to secure drop sides to prevent dangerous situations in which the drop side either partially or fully detaches from the crib.
As part of a recall, CPSC staff works with companies to provide fixes, or remedies, for products. For drop-side cribs, that remedy has been immobilizers.
Here’s a list of companies that have recalled their cribs and are providing immobilizers to secure the drop side on the cribs. These immobilizers were evaluated and approved by CPSC staff for use with these particular drop-side cribs.
If your drop-side crib manufacturer is not on this list, call the manufacturer and ask if they are making an immobilizer for your crib. Remember, though, that those particular immobilizers have not been tested or evaluated by CPSC staff for use with your specific crib.