Here are a few specific things parents should look for in a safe crib:

Crib slats or bars should be no wider than 2 3/8 inches apart. Some experts suggest gauging whether a soda can would fit through — if so, they’re dangerously far apart.

Mattresses should be dense, firm, and not sag under your baby’s weight. They also need to reach every corner of the crib, with no spaces around the sides.

Look for a crib with an adjustable mattress. The top of the crib’s rail should be 26 inches above the mattress; you’ll need to lower the mattress periodically as your child grows.

Headboards should be solid with no decorative cutouts, and also make sure the corners don’t have pointy embellishments on them that kids’ clothing could get caught on.

Cribs with a drop-side no longer meet safety requirements (so you should say no if someone tries to give you one).

Don’t bother with bumpers in the crib; there’s no evidence that they make kids safer and older kids might use them to help them climb out of the crib.

Make sure the crib doesn’t wobble when you shake it but feels sturdy. If it shakes it might have been put together improperly.

Look for any screws, nails, or glue that stick out anywhere on the crib. And if it’s painted, the paint shouldn’t be peeling or splintery.

If the crib is on wheels, make sure they lock, particularly if the crib will be on a wood or tile floor.

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