Used Cribs? a Yes or No?

E.,

My mom bought us a used crib when my son (now 4 1/2) was born. Now we're using it with my daughter (11 months). I never used a used mattress for my son, but have used the same one with my daughter.

Being financially tight, we couldn't afford a new one, so we've had no problem with the used. I DO NOT recommend even considering using anything other than a new crib mattress, you never know where the old one has been.

Hope this helps,
Melissa

I would not buy a crib older than five years, first of all. If you can find a crib from someone you know and trust, even better. Part of the problem with used cribs is you often don't get the instructions that came with it, or the crib style is no longer available and it's difficult to get parts if you need them.-L., mother of 19 month old and a 3+ yr. old. =0)

I bought a crib through an ad in the newspaper. It was used but it was in great condition. I used it for 2 kids, who are now 7 and 4, and then I sold it through Craigslist. It was still in perfect condition. Very solid. As long as everything is solid, and the slats are close together, I can see NO reason not to get a used crib.

I say yes on used cribs - just not TOO used. I don't like to buy anything used that looks really used, there's a lot out there (on craigslist, at consignment stores, etc) that's used, but barely, and you can get them at a fraction of the cost. Stay away from chipped paint or worn surfaces, anything loose or rickety, and by all means, this is important with ALL used baby gear, CHECK THE RECALLS!! CPSC (the US Consumer Product Safety Commission - www.cpsc.gov) has everything on their website, and you can also sign up for emails that alert you of any baby/child product that is recalled. If you take the time to look, you can probably find a crib that was hardly slept in, or that looks like new. I also insist on my kids getting a new mattress.

I'm a big saver when I buy stuff for my kids, but I'm also picky and my kids clothes, toys and gear never looks old or used. There are a few things that I think are silly to buy used (carseats is a big one - much more serious safety and expiration issues here, changing table pads or covers, chew toys or things that'll be in your baby's mouth, baby bathtubs because they're so cheap anyway, anything that's basically disposable), but don't buy into the hype that everything you buy for your baby has to be brand new, I think that's ridiculous, and a HUGE waste of money.

Because the cost of a brand new crib can be very expensive, I think a used crib is a possibility. Be educated about the guidelines, and make sure that the crib you are buying has all of the necessary pieces and safety features. I would much rather have a used, top of the line crib than a new cheap one, especially if I am able to talk to the owner and see the crib assembled before purchasing. I would not, however, buy a used version of a cheaper model because they are not known for durability. Know your brands.

E.,

It is nice to have a new crib, but they are quite expensive. We purchased a used crib for our second child, since our first child was still in the crib we had. We have found it to be wonderful.

With all that said, I strongly recommend that when you shop for used cribs, that you take along a list of recalls so you know which cribs have been recalled due to safety concerns. Secondhand shops do not always check on that.

After reading all the other advice I guess I have to agree with used. Just make sure it's in good condition. I had only 1 child and mine was used and it worked great. I was a single mom on my own and didn't have alot of money. And they grow so fast so there in and out in no time. And again your going to want them close to you while they are little so it all depends on you.

I don't know why they would say don't get used cribs.. why not I say??? I had my first baby at the end of june in 1983 and I got a used crib... It was not one of the new safety ones.. the bars were technically too far apart.. but I never did have a problem.. that used crib lasted through 3 babies... and none of them ever poked their heads through the bars... now of course the cribs are made quite safely... so I don't see what would be wrong with a new used one... save money wherever you can.. teenagers cost a lot of money.. take care Tammie

I've had bought 2 used cribs in my baby days. My daughter is in one now. I recommend if you do buy used make sure you look at the date on the crib, should be underneath it. Also make sure that the side up and side down part of the crib is working right. So I wouldn't buy a used one if I didn't see it assembled first. Also make sure the paint or stain isn't peeling. Otherwise i think its fine! Oh and make sure its not a recall. I think you can Google a list of recalled cribs online.

Hello! Congrats on your first baby! Gear up - they are SOOO much fun! I just had my second little girl in July - and how they grow so fast! :)

As for your question about used cribs - I'd say as long as they aren't too old and they fall under the safety guidelines you are ok. I used to do the marketing and promotions for BabiesRUs a few years back, so I am fairly well seasoned as to what the safety risks are and there really aren't any as long as the crib meets the safety standards. Just make sure you pick one that is in good condition! :) Good Luck with shopping!

If you are a bargain shopper and want to get alot for your money, one piece of advice that I do have is to NOT be cheap when it comes to the car seats your children ride in!! NEVER BUY USED CAR SEATS! This is something I strongly believe in - the palstic on the seats DO deteriorate...and car seats really do have a shelf life of only 5 years! :)

Take care,
-N.

I have three boys and all three have slept in used cribs and borrowed bassinets (for the first 6 weeks in our room). I did, however, buy a new mattress for the crib for the first baby and then when he was still in it when the second was ready to move in, we borrowed another crib and bought a new mattress. We also bought new bassinet "mattresses" for the borrowed bassinets (can find those at Babys R Us..just make sure to measure and get the right size). As long as the crib is sturdy and you can't fit a coke can between the bars, no peeling paint or stain, no missing parts etc., it should be fine. Use your judgement though! I think the key is the new mattresses (with new mattress pads!). A nursing friend told me that used mattresses were dangerous because the spit-up, urine, etc. from other children break down the protective barriers in the mattress. And remember to keep the baby's room cool (not stuffy) and dress the baby to keep him warm but not hot. Always put your baby down on his back to sleep! Congratulations!

I have 3 boys( 13,11 and 1) and the newness wears off with the first one... older cribs are fine, just make sure they are in good shape and the spacing between the bars are not too far apart. I know it is nice to have everything new, but little ones out grow every thing so fast, we might as well save our money for when we will really need it... When they are teens!! hope this helps...

B.

I bought a nice used crib and matress on craigslist for $30 from a woman who just didn't want to take to trouble to take it to Goodwill. I was nervous about what you are reading too. But Dr Sears says in "The Baby Book" that used stuff is great as long as it is safe and gives things to look for, he might have those listed on his website.

I would say just look at it set up and make sure that there is not more than a finger space on each side, it has all the parts, doesn't have paint chiping off, and that it is not esspecially old.

There are great deals like that out there. A lot of these people and businesses who recommed never to buy used benifit from you buying new.

I say go for the used crib IF it checks out for safety (obviously the new models are safe but you'll want to inspect it to make sure everything is where it should be. I have a crib sitting in my garage (a nice one!) WITH a very clean mattress and it's dying for a new home.

I'm with Cass....My son slept it in once and screamed in it a couple more times before I brought him into my bed until he was close to 3 then he went to a big boy bed. : ) I think there are lot of "never slept in" cribs out there....

If you leave near Remond, WA and want a great one, let me know! ; )

I think as long as the crib meets the safety regulations, a used crib is fine (which is the case with mine). I also got it from my sister-in-law, so I knew the history as well. Whatever you decide, just make sure you are comfortable with it.

E.-
I don't know what your financial situation is but when I got a crib for my first born I shopped at Burlington coat factory.
They had wonderful deals and beautiful cribs.
As far as buying a used crib it would really depend on where you bought it from. Try looking in local Consignment stores.They generally only re-sell products in excellent shape and current on safety measures.I think as long as the crib is within the safety standards and is in good shape then buying one a few years old is not so bad. Seeing how the baby will most likely sleep in a bassinet by you for the first little bit it might not hurt to take your time shopping. If you plan on having more then one child it would be smart to buy new just to be safe. Congrats on the pregnancy and I wish you all the best. Having children is truely a beautiful experience.

We bought a second-hand crib that was two years old and was meeting safety requirements, when we had our first son-we knew, we would have another baby soon (and we did). We ended up selling it-it was still up to the code. It was many years ago, but still saved us about $100. Many years later, we had another (and final) baby. I did not want to spend $ 300 on something, I may not be able to sell-so I borrowed a crib from a friend, who was saving it till next baby. Two years later we returned it, along with a significant gift certificate (so as not to be total cheapskates), and bought a toddler bed (second hand and meeting safety standards). We saved ourselves a headache of selling yet another bulky item, and I can assure you-no charity accepts baby furniture. I know it sounds awful, but I feel it is slightly funny to spend an equivalent of a simple couch on something to be used for maximum two years,
A.

I have a four month old son. I never thought about a crib until the day he was born. So he just sleeps in my bed with me. Doctors will tell you that it hasn't been proven if its okay or not for them to sleep with you. But I still find that everytime he flinches or moves I jolt myself awake. So this is just for me personally but I have found the attachment with my son is even stronger since he is next to me. And there are less trips out of bed every night! So its just something to think about.

I have had great luck with used cribs. You will need to make sure you check it thoroughly and clean it well. I don't reuse the mattress tho. I buy that new as there is no way to clean it properly.

I just want to stress look up any used product on the recall list www.cpsc.gov. BEFORE you buy it.

I just bought a crib second hand and now believe its on the recall list (its being stored elsewhere I still have to check.) When I bought it I figured I could check for recalls later and they would have to take it back, afterall isn't it illegal to sell recalled/unsafe items?

Ha. No it is NOT illegal in most states including WA to sell recalled items. There are only like 6 states that have a law against them all on the eastern side of the U.S.

By the way it is a newer crib recalled for high levels of lead paint.

First babies are an amazing experience, but one of the hardest things is figuring out what advice to take!!! I have had used cribs for each of my 3 babies. Here is my question...would you put your 2cd child in the same crib your first child used?? If the answer is yes, then you will feel safe, and your baby will be safe, sleeping in a crib that has been gently used by another family. Be sure the bars are close enough together, that the crib is sturdy when assembled, and all of the pieces are accounted for. Enjoy your pregnancy!

I am 30 and used the Simmons crib I slept in with both my boys. I had no problems. Just make sure it is a quality crib and everything is assembled correctly. There is also requirements for the spacing between the bars for safety, but I don't remember what it was- google!

E.- I also agree that you should buy new if you don't have a close friend to get the used crib from. That goes for all your baby gear. If you don't know the source and how they used it, is it worth your baby's safety. You are a mom and have a gut feeling that will nag at you. Listen to that over anyone even the doctors. Good luck enjoy every moment.
A.

I'd check the model, etc of the crib for any recalls and if there were none, I'd buy the used crib. As long as you feel it is sturdy and safe, then it should be fine. Just buy a new matress.
Also, check out places like IKEA if you have one in your area. They have great prices on new cribs.

I bought a used crib from a coworker and it worked great. I used it for both my kids and I plan on giving it to my sister. I would buy it from someone you know or a friend of a friend, and make sure it has all hardware on it.

my youngest are 3 year old twins and buying two new cribs was out of the question. I had one crib that I used with my other children but I bought my second crib off of craigslist. It was like new and a fraction of the cost. It came from a family with one child who never slept in it. You can's get way more for your money. Just take the time to watch, you can find great deals.

We got a used crib as a hand-me-down, and my husband checked it all over, replaced a couple screws that looked a little loose, and it worked fine! We took it apart after our first, and we're putting it back together for our second. People that have money have room to say "NEVER" about a lot of things. Get on Craigslist, shop for something that is used but newer, look it over thoroughly, and ask a lot of questions. You aren't a dumb or neglectful parent. There are dumb and neglectful parents out there... and, no offense, but those are probably the least socioeconomically likely to afford a NEW crib. Just use your head and trust your gut, and don't listen to rich people who can afford everything.

Hi E., I would go to Craigslist and find a nice one that is used. I bought everything new and then realized that the gently used would have done the same thing and saved a lot of money. One thing I do love about my $900 crib... It is a crib that converts to a toddler bed/day bed (which my 2 year old is using now.) Then it will turn into a Full head board and foot board for when she has out grown the day bed. I like to look through Craigslist all of the time now, in fact I just bought a Couch last night off of Craigslist and it is nicer then it looked online!

I would go with used but nice and maybe one that converts then there is less baby stuff around the house once they have out grown it. Congratulations! E.

I think one a few years is ok. If you make sure all of the pieces are there and the instruction are with the used crib you would be ok. I used the crib we used for my son for my daughter and the a friend used it and her husbamd is a doctor. I had all the parts and the all of the paper work. Just be very picky.

Many of us these days cannot afford to buy new everything for our children and, lets face it, we must admit that SOME of what we read is put there to get us TO BUY new- by the manufacturers! With that in mind, I have done searches on newer models of cribs, car seats, high chairs, etc, and listed any recalls and/or safety info, then taken that with me when garage saling and/or checking out a possible "used" purchase. Its never failed me. If you're still not confident in yourself, take an experienced mom with you!

I would shop carefully. I had a baby in October of '06 and I got new everything. I am now pregnant again and needed a second crib. Someone gave me one for free and at first I was really happy, but now not so much. A small but important part is missing and creats a safety hazard. Also, it was really dirty and I ended up scrubbing it for 2 hours to get all the dried milk off.

I would say if you're not going to get a NEW crib, you should stick to getting a used one from some one you know. In my case, a friend (with no kids) got this crib from one of her clients that she knows, but I I don't. I am still trying to talk my husband into getting a different crib but he says he'll just fix it...

I accepted used cribs from friends before the birth of my twins. I just checked to make certain they hadn't been recalled. And then my husband and I inspected each one very carefully (which is also what we did with our NEW crib for our oldest son) to make certain there were no structural defects.

You know I wouldn't worry too much about getting a used crib, as long as it is sturdy and doesn't have lead paint. Older cribs may have lead paint. Newer ones don't. And then you would probably want to buy a new crib mattress, and they are pretty inexpensive.

The biggest problem with used crib is that you don't know what they have been through. If they are made within the last few years then it should be just fine. Just carefully check all of the screws and holes to be sure nothing is stripped or broken. Definately buy a brand new crib matress though. They get VERY messy over the first couple years when diapers leak, babies vomit, etc.

I am not sure about a used crib you will have to use your intuition about that but i have read not use a used crib matress that is used. they have linked sids to chemicals used to make the mattress in combo with vomit/poop/ baby goo, builds up methane gas and with the windows closed and blankets has proven to smother the baby...i think it is in sweden they started making crib mattresses without this chemical, but i have not heard of the removal of it in the u.s, might want to look into it....K.

I have 3 kids, my first & second child used the same crib it was white. When I bought it, a friend sold it to me, she had bought it brand new. Then with my third child I got another used one, that work until she was 3 years old because it turn into a small child bed after. I went to garage sales and the lady who I got it from told me that she had bought it brand new for her child. I touch up both cribs with white safe paint to also protect. Try to look for one that is not so old, that they got it new in the most recent years.

R.

I think a lot of people who have more than one child would have to buy new cribs for each baby that they have, if they followed that rule. My suggestion is to find a used crib that is not more than 5 years old. You can always check it online to make sure there haven't been any recalls and that they fall under the current safety guidelines. People who know they only want one child will usually be ready to give it up when it's a few years old. I know my crib is 4 years old, and it's been through 2 kids now - it's perfectly safe, and we're planning on selling it soon for 1/10 of what we paid for it...so there are some really great bargains out there for people who want to put in a little time to look for them. Good Luck!

If you look at it really good and make sure all the hardware is there and that everything works, I have bought 3 used cribs and all have been just fine. Take a soda can with you to make sure it doesnt fit through the sides. I did however buy new matresses. There are the cribs that turn into a twin bed when they make the transition as well if you want to get 2 for the price of 1, thats also an idea. Garage sale season is just around the corner so good luck!

E.,

Used cribs are just fine. Just make sure it is in good condition and meets the current safety standards. I bought a used crib from a co-worker of my father in law and it has been great. I think that people say no to used cribs to get parents to be to spend more money. It is just the same as saving your crib and using it for each of your children as they come.

N.

I bought a used crib and I believe as long as you see it fully assembled and inspect it, make sure it's sturdy, has no screws missing, I believe it will be fine.

We bought a used crib and we love it! Just make sure that the bars are close enough together (there is information about those regulations.) Also, make sure that the mattress fits snuggly down into the crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy--not too wobbly once you put it together. If you google search crib safety or regulations you will probably find more thorough information.

From my perspective, and especially for a first child, I would recommend buying a used crib ONLY from a personal friend or friend of a friend where you can comfortably know that there has been no damage to the crib previously AND that they purchased new originally.

Also, you'll want to check and make sure that all peices are present. And have the crib set up when you view it so you can review the stability.

Just my two cents.... :) Congradulations!

Well, I suppose that depends on your financial situation.
I can tell you, though, after having three children, it doesn't matter much if you have good used things or brand new things. As long as you get the crib from someone you know personally and they can assure you of it's safety - I'd take a used one. Save your money for their college fund!

Never mind! I read the other responses!

I have 2 kids 6 1/2 and 2 1/2. We didn't have a lot of money when we had our 1st child and I had read the same reports -- NEVER get a used crib.

We looked at it this way, we knew we were going to have more than 1 child and we wanted the crib to last. So, we invested in a crib that coverted into a toddler bed. (We also knew we wanted the kids about 4 years apart). There was only about 11 months that we didn't use the bed between the two kids. It turned out to be a great investment for us and my 2 1/2 year old is still using it as a toddler bed.

If the crib is only a few years old AND you know the person you are getting it from well AND you know how they take care of things, then I wouldn't have a problem with using it. BUT LOOK IT OVER WITH A FINE TOOTH COMB AND DON'T BE SHY WITH TEST SCREWS, BARS, ETC.

I bought a used crib when I was getting ready for my son. I bought it at a consignment shop. I just made sure that all the screws/bolts/springs are good on it, the slats are the required distance apart, and that everything was basically in good working order.
I would much rather get a new one that is up to date for safety purposes, but I think it's fine to buy an older one, just make sure it is in tip top shape. Make sure all the pieces are there and that everything works. Good luck and congratulations!
~B.

I have a daughter who is 2 1/2. We were giving a crib that was already used. I think that if you know were your buying it from and have really checked it out and made sure that it's in safe working order why not. We never had an issue with ours and in fact hope to use it with the next baby when ever that may be. Good luck!

I buy alot of stuff used. I have saved so much money buying used things, crib, shoes, clothes. I have never had any problem and it makes my husband happy to save money. I don't pay any attention to what "they" say--I'm already so unconventional! ;)Craigs list is an awesome place or if you're in Salem--IGA from Roth's. Buy used, save money!

Both cribs that I had were used (gently), and they conformed to the newer standards. You just have to make sure that they are stable, with no screws loose, and that the bars are not too far apart. I don't know what the requirements are off the top of my head, but any crib made recently has to conform to those standards. I couldn't afford a brand-new crib, so I was very fortunate that I had great friends that could give them to me. I don't see any reason why you couldn't use a used crib. What do parents do that have multiple children, buy new cribs every time?

just look up the new regulations for space between the bars to be sure they are within regulation. You dont want the baby to get his/her head stuck. Not ALL old cribs would be unsafe I don't think.You can look up the actual requirements online!

Another issue if painted may be is it a child-safe paint? Is it lead based? Is the paint peeling or not?
So I personally would stick to umpainted wood with slats within regulation but, that's just me.

Finally there may be other concerns such as where has it been stored are there any mold/mildew issues newborns can be VERY SENSITIVE.

Good for you for thinking used instead of new! So many people I know get into a mindset of buying only new things for their baby/child. You can save a lot of money and get top quality products by buying used. You just need to know the current safety standards for cribs. When you go to check one out, bring along a tape measure. Good luck!

Yes, used cribs are fine, as long as they meet all federal safety standards and guidelines. You can always check cpsc.gov to see if there have been any recalls on the particular crib you are looking at.

I think it depends on the crib. I got a used crib for my daughter when she was born (2 xmas's ago), and it's worked out fine. It's a metal one, so it screws together. I guess I'd be a little more careful with a wooden one, but friends up in Portland have actually been using what is pretty much an antique crib by now (very wide slats and a bumper, very not currently safety-rated) for their grandkids and no problems. I think common sense and keeping an eye out are much better than being paranoid about safety especially about a relatively minor issue like this.

A used crib is fine, but you have to check it over THOROUGHLY.

Can you put a soda can through the bars? If yes, pass.

Are all the slats intact and in good shape? If there are any cracks or signs of wear, pass.

Is all the hardware present and in good working order?

If the side lowers, does it lock into place both up and down? How solid are the locks? (toddlers desiring to get free can exert a LOT of pressure...)

Are there any potential pinch points or catch points? Any place where baby's clothing could get caught and possibly choke him/her?

In short, is the crib like-new? If so, you'll be okay. Any question, then PASS.

Hi E.! I've read it's not good to do the used crib thing as well. But, if you know someone well and they have a slightly used crib (a couple of years old) I don't think that would hurt. I've also read that any crib older than 7 years old is not recommended. Just trust your gut and see how you feel about it. We bought brand new cribs for each of our girls because we just didn't want to compromise there. Ikea has great cribs for not very much $$. Good luck!!

A little about me:
I have two girls one is 22 mnths old and one is 7 weeks old. Fun times!!!

Hi E.,
When my husband and I had our first child in 2000, we didn't want to spend a lot of money on a crib. New furniture was very expensive. We had to make choices, either buy a new crib and changing table or a new glider rocker. Well, we shopped around and hours of sitting in and trying out glider rockers, we decided on the new rocker. To this day, I have spent more time in the rocker than my two boys spent in their crib. We purchased used from a lady who had purchased new. I sold it last year crib and changing table together. I kept the mattress because as used one is just icky. We also use it for a spacer between our sons bed and the wall. The crib was in beautiful condition and looked brand new. You can find really good deals like this out there. You just have to look. My friend bought a new one that converted into a twin bed. They never converted it into a bed and got rid of the crib after three years. They also spent a fortune on it. What a waste of money. We also co-slept with both of our boys for the first couple of years, so the crib wasn't used until they were each about two years old. You have a lot of good useful information from many other moms. It seems that we all agree that used is the way to go. Just make sure it is up to your standards not the buyers and always buy a new mattress.

We bought a used crib, carefully measuring the bar spaces. You probably want to buy a new mattress.

But, having said all that, we couldn't get our son to sleep in it. We tried with and without the bumper, putting him in sleepy but awake or sound asleep. We tried when he was a newborn, and again every few months. No luck, it was an instant wake-up call.

But about the used crib... I think the issues are bars wide enough to get heads stuck, and loose toxic paint chips. You can check for both of those. Good luck!

I don't know why except maybe the really old ones may have the slats too close (so baby can't wedge his head in there). But if you're buying from someone who recently used it, it would be of the newer variety with the slats closer together.

Personally, we got a crib from a friend and our son NEVER used it! We would have been really bummed if we'd spend a lot of money on one! Since this is your first, maybe you haven't given it much thought, but co-sleeping is the way to go. It makes breastfeeding easier and bonding too. Read "The Baby Book" by Dr Sears, it has lots of GREAT information about the benefits of co-sleeping. Happier, healthier kids for one!

OK, if you still think you need a crib (and for all of the other things you will need for a baby!) check out this HUGE kids sale in April: http://www.passitonsales.com Over 250 families consigning, over 20,000 items, everything from clothes and toys to furniture and equipment! New Moms can even shop EARLY! Just register online for a Presale Pass. :)

I hadnt heard about the crib and dont see it being any problem, especially if you wipe it down and stuff. The Mattress is what I heard to never reuse but when you are short on funds, and the risks they are talking about are less then one percent....I see no reason to spend $500 on something you can get for less then $100 used. Congrats on the baby, Jen

Yes, as long as it meets the safety regulations.
I would however buy a new mattress.