FAQs About Buying Used Cribs

A crib or cradle is an important purchase for your new arrival. Cribs have gorgeous details and make wonderful heirlooms to pass down through the generations. The increase in environmental preservation has made buying a used crib an earth-friendly alternative. There are a few things to check on baby beds to ensure that they last for years and stay safe for your baby.

Q: Are antique cribs as safe as new cribs?

A: Antique cribs make beautiful heirloom pieces in a home, but unfortunately, many of the modern-day safety rules did not apply to cribs made years ago. It is best to inspect the bed thoroughly and make sure it is sturdy, with no broken pieces. If the bed has paint or sealant, it is important to make sure it is not lead-based.

Q: Is it okay to paint a used crib?

A: Adding a personal touch or updating an out-of-style crib is easy with a few coats of paint. Make sure that your paint is safe and lead-free, and choose a high-gloss finish to reduce chipping. It is important to remove all chipped paint to ensure that the baby does not inhale or swallow small paint particles.

Q: How much space is too large between the bars of a crib?

A: If the slats are too far apart, a baby can wedge his head or body between the slats and injure himself. It is necessary to ensure the space between bars is less than 2.375 inches. An easy way to check the spaces is to compare it to a soda can, which is roughly the same diameter of the ideal distance between slats.

Q: Is it okay to buy a used crib without seeing it first?

A: It is important to carefully examine a crib before purchasing it to ensure that all the parts are functioning and not broken. Cribs used to have a side that dropped down, but due to frequent breakage and falling babies, this style is no longer made in the United States.

Q: Do resale shops check cribs to make sure they are not broken or in disrepair?

A: Many resale shops take time to check merchandise before resale; however, it depends on the store and its policies. It is best to do a personal, thorough check before purchasing any crib or bed.