Safe baby cribs: What you should pay attention to

Choosing the right crib is one of the most important decisions parents have to make for their newborn. A safe and comfortable crib not only provides a peaceful sleep but also the assurance that the baby is resting in a secure environment. In this article, we highlight the essential aspects that should be considered when selecting a crib. From materials and design to safety standards – we give you a comprehensive overview so you can make the best decision for your child.
Materials and Workmanship: What You Should Pay Attention To

When choosing a crib, the material plays a crucial role. Wood is the most commonly used material because it is sturdy and durable. Make sure the wood comes from sustainable sources and does not contain harmful chemicals. Certifications like the FSC seal can help you identify environmentally friendly and safe products.
Another important aspect is the craftsmanship of the crib. The surfaces should be smooth and free of splinters to prevent injuries. Paints and finishes used for cribs must be saliva-resistant and non-toxic. Look for appropriate labels that confirm the safety of the materials used.
Metal cribs are another option, although they are chosen less frequently. They are often heavier and less flexible in design. If you opt for a metal crib, ensure there are no sharp edges or corners and that all parts are securely connected.
The mattress also plays an important role. It should be firm enough to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) but comfortable enough to ensure restful sleep. Make sure the mattress fits the crib precisely, with no gaps at the sides where the baby could get stuck.
In summary, it is important that you pay attention to quality and safety when selecting the material and craftsmanship of the crib. Invest in a product that ensures both the comfort and safety of your child.
Designs and Functions: Practical and Safe Options

The design of a baby crib is not just a matter of aesthetics, but also of functionality and safety. Modern baby cribs offer a variety of designs that are both practical and safe. A classic crib with bars remains a popular choice as it allows for good air circulation and keeps the baby within the parents' view.
Some baby cribs are height-adjustable, which is particularly practical as the baby grows. This feature allows you to adjust the mattress height to spare the parents' backs while ensuring the child's safety. Make sure that the height adjustment is easy to use and locks securely.
Another practical design feature is convertible baby cribs. These can be transformed from a crib into a toddler bed, extending the bed's usage period. Such beds are often equipped with additional safety features, like rounded corners and sturdy side panels.
Some baby cribs offer integrated drawers or storage space, which is especially advantageous in small rooms. These additional features can help utilize space efficiently and keep important baby items within reach.
When choosing the design, you should also pay attention to the stability of the crib. It should not wobble or be easily moved. Check that all screws and connections are tight and that there are no loose parts.
Overall, the design of a baby crib should consider both safety and the practical needs of the parents. Choose a crib that not only looks good but is also functional and safe.
Security Standards and Certificates: What You Need to Know

Safety standards are an essential aspect when choosing a crib. In many countries, there are specific regulations to ensure that cribs meet the highest safety requirements. In Germany, for example, cribs must comply with the DIN EN 716 standard, which sets requirements for the safety and mechanical properties of children's beds.
An important safety feature is the distance between the slats. This should be between 4.5 and 6.5 centimeters to prevent the baby from getting its head stuck between the bars. The height of the slats is also crucial to prevent the child from falling out.
Certificates such as the GS mark (Tested Safety) or the TÜV seal provide additional assurance that the crib has undergone rigorous testing. These certificates confirm that the product not only meets legal requirements but has also passed additional tests.
Another important criterion is the stability of the bed. It should not tip over or wobble when the baby moves. Make sure that all parts are firmly connected and that there are no loose screws or parts.
The materials used should also be tested for harmful substances. Certificates like the Öko-Tex Standard 100 guarantee that the textiles are tested for harmful substances and do not contain any health-damaging substances.
Overall, it is important that you inform yourself about the safety standards and certificates before buying a crib. These give you the assurance that the bed meets the highest safety requirements and that your baby sleeps in a safe environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safe Baby Cribs
When choosing a crib, the materials are crucial for the safety and comfort of your baby. Wood is the most commonly used material because it is sturdy and durable. Make sure the wood comes from sustainable sources and does not contain harmful chemicals. Certifications like the FSC seal can help you identify environmentally friendly and safe products.
Metal cribs are also an option, though less common. They are often heavier and less flexible in design. If you opt for a metal crib, ensure there are no sharp edges or corners and that all parts are securely connected.
Another important aspect is the craftsmanship of the crib. The surfaces should be smooth and free of splinters to prevent injuries. Paints and finishes used for cribs must be saliva-resistant and non-toxic. Look for appropriate labels that confirm the safety of the materials used.
The mattress also plays an important role. It should be firm enough to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) but comfortable enough to ensure restful sleep. Make sure the mattress fits the crib precisely, with no gaps at the sides where the baby could get stuck.
Cribs must meet strict safety standards to ensure they are suitable for use by babies. In Germany, cribs must comply with the DIN EN 716 standard, which sets requirements for the safety and mechanical properties of children's beds. This standard ensures that the bed is stable and has no sharp edges or corners that could injure the baby.
An important safety aspect is the distance between the slats. This should be between 4.5 and 6.5 centimeters to prevent the baby from getting its head between the bars. The height of the slats is also crucial to prevent the child from falling out.
Certificates such as the GS mark (Tested Safety) or the TÜV seal provide additional assurance that the crib has undergone rigorous testing. These certificates confirm that the product not only meets legal requirements but has also passed additional tests.
The materials used should also be tested for harmful substances. Certificates like the Öko-Tex Standard 100 guarantee that the textiles are tested for harmful substances and do not contain any health-damaging substances. These safety standards and certificates give you the assurance that the bed meets the highest safety requirements and that your baby sleeps in a safe environment.
The mattress plays a crucial role in the safety and comfort of a baby crib. A good mattress should be firm enough to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), yet comfortable enough to ensure a restful sleep. A mattress that is too soft can increase the risk of the baby sinking face-first into the mattress, leading to breathing problems.
It is important that the mattress fits precisely into the crib, without gaps at the sides where the baby could get stuck. A well-fitting mattress prevents the baby from slipping between the mattress and the crib frame, which could lead to injuries.
Make sure the mattress is made of breathable materials that allow for good air circulation. This helps regulate the baby's temperature and prevents overheating.
The materials of the mattress should also be tested for harmful substances. Certifications like the Öko-Tex Standard 100 guarantee that the textiles are tested for harmful substances and do not contain any health-damaging substances.
Overall, choosing the right mattress is crucial for the safety and comfort of your baby. Invest in a high-quality mattress that meets the highest safety standards.
When choosing a crib, the design is not just a matter of aesthetics but also of safety. A classic crib with bars remains a popular choice as it allows for good air circulation and keeps the baby within the parents' view. These cribs are often equipped with rounded corners and sturdy sidewalls to prevent injuries.
Some cribs are height-adjustable, which is particularly practical as the baby grows. This feature allows you to adjust the mattress height to spare the parents' backs while ensuring the child's safety. Make sure the height adjustment is easy to use and locks securely.
Another practical design feature is convertible cribs. These can be transformed from a crib into a toddler bed, extending the bed's usage period. Such beds are often equipped with additional safety features, like rounded corners and sturdy sidewalls.
When selecting the design, you should also pay attention to the stability of the crib. It should not wobble or be easily moved. Check that all screws and connections are tight and that there are no loose parts.
Overall, the design of a crib should consider both safety and the practical needs of the parents. Choose a crib that not only looks good but is also functional and safe.
If you're considering a used crib, it's important to thoroughly check its safety to ensure it meets current safety standards. Start with a visual inspection of the crib. Make sure no parts are missing or damaged. Check that all screws and connections are tight and that there are no loose parts.
Check the distance between the slats. It should be between 4.5 and 6.5 centimeters to prevent the baby from getting its head stuck between the bars. The height of the slats is also crucial to prevent the child from falling out.
Make sure the surfaces of the crib are smooth and free of splinters to avoid injuries. Paints and finishes should be saliva-resistant and non-toxic. If possible, ask for the original certificates or seals of approval that confirm the crib meets safety standards.
Check the mattress for signs of wear or damage. A well-fitting mattress is crucial for the baby's safety. It should be firm enough and fit snugly into the crib without gaps at the sides.
Overall, it's important to be particularly careful with a used crib and ensure it meets current safety requirements. If you have doubts, it's better to invest in a new crib that meets the highest safety standards.
Additional safety features can help further enhance the security of a crib. An important feature is the adjustable height of the mattress. This function allows you to adjust the mattress height to protect the parents' backs while ensuring the child's safety. Make sure that the height adjustment is easy to use and locks securely.
Another safety feature is rounded corners and edges. These reduce the risk of injury when the baby becomes active in the crib. Sturdy side walls are also important to prevent the child from falling out.
Some cribs offer integrated drawers or storage space, which is particularly advantageous in small rooms. These additional features can help use the space efficiently and keep important baby items within reach.
Another practical design feature is convertible cribs. These can be transformed from a crib into a toddler bed, extending the bed's usage period. Such beds are often equipped with additional safety features, like rounded corners and sturdy side walls.
Overall, additional safety features should consider both the safety and practical needs of the parents. Choose a bed that not only looks good but is also functional and safe.
To ensure that a crib is free of harmful substances, you should look for certain certificates and seals of approval that confirm the safety of the materials used. An important certificate is the Öko-Tex Standard 100, which guarantees that the textiles have been tested for harmful substances and do not contain any health-damaging substances.
Make sure that the wood of the crib comes from sustainable sources and does not contain harmful chemicals. Certificates like the FSC seal can help you identify environmentally friendly and safe products.
The surfaces of the crib should be smooth and free of splinters to prevent injuries. Paints and finishes used for cribs must be saliva-resistant and non-toxic. Look for appropriate labels that confirm the safety of the materials used.
The mattress should also be made of non-toxic materials. Ensure that it is made of breathable materials that allow good air circulation. This helps regulate the baby's temperature and prevents overheating.
Overall, it is important that you inform yourself about the materials used and their safety before purchasing a crib. This information gives you the assurance that the crib meets the highest safety standards and that your baby sleeps in a safe environment.
The stability of a baby crib is a crucial factor for your baby's safety. A stable crib ensures that it does not tip over or wobble when the baby moves or plays in the crib. This is especially important to prevent accidents and ensure the child's safety.
Make sure that all parts of the crib are securely connected and that there are no loose screws or parts. Regularly check that all connections are tight and that the crib stands stable. A wobbly crib can pose a safety risk and should be repaired or replaced immediately.
The mattress also plays a role in the stability of the crib. It should be firm enough to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), yet comfortable enough to ensure a restful sleep. A well-fitting mattress prevents the baby from slipping between the mattress and the crib frame, which could lead to injuries.
Another important criterion is the height of the bars. They should be high enough to prevent the child from falling out. The distance between the bars should be between 4.5 and 6.5 centimeters to prevent the baby from getting its head stuck between the bars.
Overall, the stability of a baby crib is crucial for your baby's safety and comfort. Make sure that the crib meets the highest safety standards and is regularly checked for stability.

by Charlotte Green
Charlotte Green is an experienced interiors expert from London with a true passion for colours, shapes, and statement furniture. For her, every room design starts with a favourite piece – something that sparks emotion and becomes the heart of a thoughtfully styled space. Whether it’s a Victorian sideboard, a sleek designer piece or a charming second-hand gem, Charlotte knows how to make it shine through well-balanced colour schemes and harmonious layouts.In her articles, she shows you how colour and lighting can transform the effect of furniture and shape the atmosphere of a room. Her signature style blends British charm with a fresh, modern edge – elegant, but never overdone.
Off-duty: Charlotte lives in a townhouse in North London, filled with light, high ceilings and a lovingly curated mix of favourite objects. She spends her weekends wandering design markets or giving colour advice to friends and family. Her Instagram, featuring mood boards, colour palettes and furniture styling ideas, is followed by a growing community.
Transparency note: Charlotte Green writes her articles with lots of love – and a little help from AI.Focus topics: Favourite furniture, room ideas, colour concepts