Crib Safety 101: Comparing Standards and Certifications

Bringing home your baby comes with a thousand tiny decisions, some exciting, some overwhelming. One of the most important? Choosing where your baby will sleep safely every single night.

You want a crib that’s not just stylish, but certified safe. Something that gives you peace of mind while your little one snoozes peacefully (hopefully for more than 20 minutes at a time).

But between all the labels, certifications, and confusing acronyms, it can be hard to know what matters.

That’s where we come in.

Let’s break down the most important crib safety standards, what certifications to look for, and how dadada cribs check all the right boxes for both safety and style.

Why Crib Safety Matters

In those first few months, your baby will spend up to 16 hours a day sleeping. Their crib isn’t just furniture, it’s their safe zone. That’s why making sure it meets the highest safety standards is so important.

Here’s what unsafe cribs can put your baby at risk for:

• Slats that are too far apart can trap tiny arms or legs
• Drop-side rails that can malfunction or collapse
• Finishes that release harmful chemicals into the air
• Loose screws or rough edges that can scratch or injure

The good news? Today’s crib safety standards are stronger than ever if you know what to look for.

The Big Players in Crib Safety

Here are the major crib safety standards every parent should know.

CPSC Standards (Consumer Product Safety Commission)

In the U.S., all new cribs must meet strict safety regulations updated in 2011. These include:

• No drop-side cribs
• Slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart
• Stronger mattress supports and slats strengthen
• Rigorous testing for hardware durability
  

Look for a label that confirms the crib meets 16 CFR 1219 or 1220, depending on the crib style.

ASTM International Standards

ASTM creates voluntary performance standards that often go beyond federal rules. The key one for cribs is ASTM F1169. It includes extra testing for things like:

• Corner post height
• Mattress fit
• Long-term structural durability
  

If a crib is ASTM certified, it's a strong sign that it went through extra safety checks.

JPMA Certification (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association)

JPMA certification means the crib not only meets CPSC and ASTM rules but also passes independent third-party testing.JPMA-certified products come with a helpful sticker showing they’ve gone the extra mile.And bonus, JPMA updates their standards often to stay current with the latest safety research.

Eco-Certifications That Matter Too

Thinking about indoor air quality and materials? You’re not alone. These eco-certifications can help give you more peace of mind.

GREENGUARD Gold
This certification means the crib has been tested for over 10,000 chemicals and VOCs. It’s especially important if you want low-emission furniture for better air quality in the nursery.

Renewable Wood
Crafted from renewable beechwood, a strong, fast-growing hardwood that’s built to last. Its durability means fewer replacements, and its natural origin makes it a gentler choice for your home and the planet. Thoughtful design, from the inside out.

Red Flags to Avoid

There are a few things that should stop you in your tracks when crib shopping.

• Drop-side cribs, even secondhand
• Missing or loose hardware
• Headboards or footboards with decorative cut-outs
• Peeling paint or splinters
  

Even the most stylish crib doesn’t matter if it isn’t safe.

The dadada Difference: Where Safety Meets Style

At dadada Baby, we design every crib with safety as the foundation. That’s not just a slogan, it’s backed by certifications that meet or exceed industry standards.

All dadada cribs are:

• Certified to CPSC and ASTM standards
• Finished with non-toxic, baby-safe paints
• Made from renewable solid wood
• Available with GREENGUARD Gold Certification on select models

Here are some of our favorite safe-and-stylish picks for your nursery:

Austin 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
A timeless design with clean lines and solid beechwood construction. GREENGUARD Gold certified and built to grow from crib to toddler bed to daybed.

Soho 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
Compact and modern, perfect for small nurseries or shared spaces. Built with sustainability in mind, and meets all U.S. safety standards.

Spirit 8-in-1 Convertible Crib
Our most versatile crib. Converts from crib to toddler bed to full-size bed with headboard and footboard. Crafted for longevity with style and structure that lasts.

Before You Buy: A Few Safety Tips

• Always buy new if possible regulations change, and older cribs may not be compliant
• Double-check for recalls at cpsc.gov
•  Make sure your crib mattress fits snugly with no more than two fingers of space on each side
  

Sleep Safer, Mama

We know it’s a lot to take in. But crib safety is the foundation of your nursery. With the right information and a little extra care, you can feel confident that your baby is sleeping soundly and safely.

And when you choose a crib from dadada, you’re getting more than beautiful design. You’re getting a crib built for your baby’s best rest and your peace of mind.