Published in 1995. Still true 13 years later.

I know that many families out there have used a used crib, and their kids were fine. I slept on a used crib, and my sister used the same one.

However.

When you get a used crib or a used car seat, you’re taking a huge risk.

Every safety org out there will tell you “DO NOT BUY A USED CRIB/CAR SEAT.”

With cribs, you can’t be totally certain that all of the parts are intact. One tiny missing bolt could turn the thing into a death trap.

Earlier this year, millions of cribs were recalled.

If you got a used crib, you wouldn’t be able to submit a registration card so you could be alerted in the case of a recall. You’d just have to pay attention to the news or the CSPC, and know the exact maker and model number of your crib. Good luck.

Especially since you can get a new crib for about $100, to me it’s simply not worth the risk. Sure, a used crib might work out ok. But if my baby is seriously injured or killed because of a problem with the crib, do you think I’d care about saving a little money? Heck no!! I’d never be able to forgive myself.

Crib injuries and deaths are surprisingly common. What’s worse, is some of those deaths might have been preventable. It’s critical that the bed meets all safety requirements, and the sheets must be tight on the mattress to lower the risk of suffocation.

Folks, I don’t want to sound like a paranoid first-time parent. But seriously. Do NOT compromise on your cribs or your car seats.

Save money elsewhere. And that’s why I’m buying a new crib and mattress.

This is what we’re getting (this weekend to finally get things set up for the baby!) http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3012702

I know that for many people, getting a used crib works perfectly fine for them.

I’m all about getting used things, but I’m not comfortable with getting a used crib. If one little piece or bolt or whatever is missing, a safe crib could turn into a serious hazard.

I’ll want to make sure I have the exact model # in case of a recall. If I acquire a crib without that info, how am I to know it hasn’t been recalled? I dunno. Maybe that info is stamped somewhere on it.

So yeah, getting used could be a way to save money. I’m going to save money on clothing and things of that nature, and it’ll probably balance out.

As far as the crib goes, I do hope to get a good deal on one, but I’m willing to pay a few hundred if that’s what it takes.

Yeah, I’m probably a paranoid new mom, but I’d rather be a little too paranoid about safety than save $100 and then regret it later.

I honestly think you can get a used one that is just as nice. I would not fork over 200 plus dollars for a crib, especially if you are not picky about the color or the ability to convert. Look in your local bulletin or visit Once Upon a Child or some other high end used baby clothing store.

Our last son was not planned for, we did not have a crib. We had sold our other one. I lucked out and was given a nice one with a matching changing table. As long as your crib is fairly new—not more than 5 -7 years I am sure safety wise it will be fine. You don’t want their heads to fit through the rails and you want the sides to be sturdy and up, but really there is not much a baby can get hurt from in a crib. Oh and of course you would not want anything painted or chipped.

Spend your money on things that people are going to see more and that can look run down……What I mean is…I was all for buying a spending some money on a nicer stroller. Mine was 13 years old (did not even have a cup holder!) So when we found out #4 was coming I said lets definately by a new stroller. Those can look shabby used, but a bed doesn’t…..Buy a new mattress and get a used crib is my vote. Spend money on things that truly can look worn out like diaper bags, bedding material etc. But high chairs, swings, walkers, excersaucers, etc. can all look really nice when only used by one baby for short time.