Originally designed to make getting your baby in and out of the crib easier, drop-side cribs have been responsible for hundreds of accidents and dozens of deaths in the United States. From January 2000 to May 2010, drop-side cribs were responsible for at least 32 infant and toddler deaths, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The drop-side can fall, injuring, strangulating or suffocating the baby inside the crib.
General Problems
A drop-side crib becomes a safety hazard when the safety mechanisms that hold the drop-side in place fail. According to the CPSC, drop-side hardware is prone to break, deform or wear out. The longer you use a drop-side crib, the higher the risk of accident because of wear and tear. Also, the more you assemble and disassemble a crib, the higher the likelihood of a drop-side accident.
Safety Measures
The CPSC recommends using a crib with four stationary sides, but if you must use a drop-side crib, ensure that it has at least two locking devices on the rails. Your child should not be able to unlock these devices. Never use a crib that has any broken, missing or loose parts. Periodically check the hardware's condition and tighten it. If you notice any problems with the hardware or if the drop-side breaks, do not attempt to fix the crib yourself. Stop using it and contact the manufacturer for instructions.
Size
To help prevent safety hazards, ensure that the drop-side of the crib is the appropriate height for your child's age and height. According to KidsHealth, when you lower the side rail, the top should be at least 9 inches above the mattress support. For an older child who may try to climb out of the climb on his own, the top of the raised drop-side rail must be at least 26 inches above the mattress.
Recalls
As of May 2010, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued 11 drop-side crib recalls over a period of five years because of suffocation and strangulation hazards. More than 7 million drop-side cribs from various retailers have been recalled during this period. When a crib is recalled, you should stop using it immediately and check the CPSC website for details on replacements or repair kits offered. Always fill out and return your crib warranty card; the crib manufacturer will use it to alert you about recalls.
Legislation
The safety issues associated with drop-side rails have prompted legislation on the issue. As of June 2010, many manufactures have stopped selling drop-side cribs because of a voluntary industry standard, backed by 2010 federal legislation. National legislation has been proposed to outlaw the manufacture, sale and resale of drop-side cribs and ban them from day-care centers and hotels.
