Crib Mattress Frame Safety

Mattress Size

• Crib mattresses should fit snugly in the crib frame, with no more than the width of a finger between the mattress and the frame. Most crib frames are 52 inches by 28 inches, and standard crib mattresses measure at least 51 and 5/8 inches by 27 and 1/4 inches.

Mattress Depth

• Crib mattresses should be no more than 6 inches deep. The mattress can be at its highest position for the first few months, but as soon as the baby begins to try to pull up to a standing position, the mattress should be moved down to a lower setting.

Frame Slats

• The rails or slats of a crib should not be more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart so the baby cannot fit through. In addition, there should not be any cutout shapes in the headboard or footboard that the baby could get trapped in.

Wood Surfaces

• To protect children from splinters, all wood crib frames should be smooth, without splinters or cracks.

Product Recalls

• Occasionally an unsafe crib mattress or frame is recalled, as was the case in 2006 to 2008 with some Simmons mattresses that were too small. To ensure notification of product recalls, return the product card that came with your new crib mattress and new crib frame.