When it comes to preparing your nursery, nothing is more important than ensuring your baby sleeps in a safe and secure environment. From selecting the right baby crib to choosing the safest crib mattress and baby bedding, every detail matters. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of baby crib safety so you can rest easy knowing your little one is protected.
1. Choose a Certified Baby Crib
The first step in crib safety is selecting a baby crib that meets modern safety standards. Always ensure the crib is certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Avoid drop-side cribs, which have been banned in the U.S. since 2011 due to safety risks. Look for sturdy construction, properly spaced slats (no more than 2 3/8 inches apart), and a snug-fitting mattress support.
Tip: When buying a new crib, check for a JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification label for added peace of mind.
2. Select a Firm, Breathable Crib Mattress
Your baby’s crib mattress plays a vital role in safe sleep. Choose a firm crib mattress that fits snugly inside the crib without gaps. A mattress that's too soft or small can increase the risk of suffocation or entrapment.
Organic crib mattresses made with breathable and non-toxic materials are growing in popularity—and for good reason. These mattresses reduce exposure to harmful chemicals while helping regulate temperature during sleep.
What to look for in a crib mattress:
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Firmness recommended for infants
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Snug fit (no more than two fingers of space between the mattress and crib frame)
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Waterproof or washable cover
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Breathable, non-toxic materials (such as organic cotton or natural latex)
3. Use Safe Baby Bedding
Safe baby bedding means keeping things simple. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a bare crib: no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or crib bumpers. These items can pose suffocation or strangulation hazards.
Instead, opt for fitted crib sheets made from soft, breathable fabrics. Look for organic cotton baby bedding that's gentle on your baby's sensitive skin and free of synthetic dyes and chemical finishes.
Safe bedding checklist:
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One fitted crib sheet (tight-fitting and made for your mattress size)
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No loose blankets or toys
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Sleep sacks or wearable blankets instead of quilts
4. Keep Crib Placement Safe
Where you place your baby’s crib is just as important as what’s inside it. Position the crib away from windows, blinds, cords, wall hangings, or shelves. These items may fall or pose a strangulation hazard if within reach.
Best practices include:
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Place the crib in a draft-free, well-ventilated area
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Avoid hanging anything directly above the crib
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Keep monitor cords, mobiles, and curtains far out of reach
5. Monitor Regularly for Wear and Tear
Babies grow quickly, and so do their abilities to stand, pull, and climb. As your child grows, adjust the crib mattress height accordingly. Lower the mattress when your baby begins to sit up or stand to prevent falls.
Also, inspect your crib regularly for loose screws, cracks, or wear. Even high-quality baby cribs and crib mattresses can show signs of use over time.
Final Thoughts: Safe Sleep Starts with Smart Choices
Choosing a safe baby crib, firm crib mattress, and breathable baby bedding lays the foundation for a restful and secure sleep environment. At Regal Baby, we’re committed to offering products that meet the highest standards in quality, comfort, and safety—so your baby sleeps soundly, and you can too.
Browse our collection of JPMA-certified baby cribs, organic crib mattresses, and cozy baby bedding to create the safest nursery for your little one.