Cribs that were made before September 1986 do not meet current safety standards and should not be used. It is a criminal offence to advertise, sell or give these cribs away.

Only use a crib that has a label with a date of manufacture after September 1986. Do not use cribs that are homemade. Remember when assembling a crib, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not modify it in any way. After assembling your crib and then on a regular basis, check the crib for any loose, missing or broken parts.

The following measurements meet the proper safety standards (Health Canada): The space between the mattress and the side of the crib should not be more than 3 cm (1 3/16 inches) apart The space between the crib bars should be no more than 6 cm (2 3/8 inches) apart The mattress should be firm and no more than 15 cm (6 inches) thick

Avoid placing pillows, quilts, comforters, bumper pads and stuffed toys in your child’s crib as they pose a suffocation hazard. Use a fitted bottom sheet specifically designed for crib use.

For more information crib safety and Safe Sleep, please visit Consumer Product Safety, Health Canada or Safe Kids Canada.