9,500 ER Visits & 100+ Deaths Connected To Cribs, Playpens, & Bassinets Every Year
Over the years, many crib recalls have been issued by the CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) due to unsafe designs or defects that led to some infant deaths and numerous injuries or incidents.
As many as 9,500 injuries and over 100+ deaths relating to cribs, bassinets, and playpens happen in the US each year, according to a 19-year study published in the Pediatrics journal in 2011. (1)
The study also disclosed that as many as 83% of these incidents specifically involved cribs. (1)
What were the main reasons for these incidents, what did the authorities do, and did the retailers or manufacturers take responsibility?
What brands were affected, how do you know if your crib is recalled, and what should you do next?
Read on to find out.
Ban On Drop-Side Cribs & The CPSC’s Revamped Crib Recall Policy
A number of the incidents in the Pediatrics study involved entrapment, suffocation, or other serious injuries from drop-side cribs. (1)
These cribs had one side that parents can “drop” so they can easily get their babies in or out of the crib.
(source: globalhealthnow.org)
This led experts from the CPSC and APA (American Academy of Pediatrics) to consider these cribs unsafe for babies. (1)
In June 2011, a ban was issued against drop-side cribs, leading to numerous crib recalls. (1)(2)
Presently, manufacturers are required to comply with the improved federal safety standards.
New Safety Protocols Outlaw Drop-Side Cribs
All cribs must meet stringent requirements, including: (2)
- Impact testing for side rails, slat strength, and mattress supports
- Designed with limited movable sides or without drop sides and/or headboards
- Improve hardware quality to reduce the risks of loosened parts that can affect the crib’s structural integrity.
- Drop-side cribs must never be sold or resold.
- Any recalled crib must never be sold on the market.
- In the event of drop-side-related recalls, free repair kits, immobilizer components, or extra drop-side hardware are no longer allowed.
Recalled Crib Models 2023
Room & Board Crib Mattress Recall (August 2023)
Update: August 21, 2023
On August 10, 2023, Restwell Mattress Co. recalled Room & Board brand crib mattresses for failing to comply with federal safety standards (e.g., failing the firmness tests and missing the required warnings and labels), posing suffocation risks to babies. (10)
About 100 units of the following models are included in this recall: (10)
- Model no. 847564 – Natural Organic Latex and Spring Crib
- Model No. 925869 – Natural Organic Latex Crib
For a full refund and to arrange mattress pickup (no charge), contact Room & Board via these channels: (10)
- Toll-free phone number: 800-301-9720 from 8 AM to 7 PM CT on Mondays through Fridays; from 10 AM to 5 PM CT on Saturdays through Sundays
- Email: [email protected]
- Recall sites: restwellmattress.com/recall and roomandboard.com/product-recalls
- Main sites: restwellmattress.com and roomandboard.com (click on “Product Recalls” found at the top of the page)
Pottery Barn Convertible Crib Recall (July 2023)
On July 20, 2023, around 310 Pottery Barn Kids Penny Convertible Cribs were recalled over laceration risks from the sharp edges that can come loose. (9)
According to the recall advisory, glue wasn’t consistently applied to the crib’s end panels. (9)
The company received two reports of the end panels separating from the cribs. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. (9)
This recall only affects Penny Convertible Cribs, with SKU (stock-keeping unit) number 2850473. No other Pottery Barn cribs are affected. (9)
For a full refund or to schedule a repair, contact Pottery Barn Kids via these channels: (9)
- Toll-free phone number: 855-801-9300 from 7 AM to midnight ET daily
- Recall website: potterybarnkids.com/customer-service/recall-penny-crib.html
- Shop or official website: potterybarnkids.com (click on the “safety recalls” link)
Crib Recalls 2022
Thornhill Dark Brown and Natural Baby Cribs (December 2022)
(source: cpsc.gov)
On December 15, 2022, Thornhill Dark Brown and Natural Baby Cribs were recalled due to a fall hazard. According to the CPSC’s recall advisory, the crib’s mattress support pins can loosen or might not fit properly, posing an injury risk if the mattress falls. (3)
The recall affected about 280 units sold in the US and about five sold in Canada. (3)
Crate and Barrel, the product’s importer and retailer, received six consumer reports of the mattress support pins either falling out of the crib or not fitting correctly. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported relating to this recall. (3)
According to the recall alert, the affected Thornhill cribs have gold-capped feet and a dark brown wash finish. They were made in Vietnam. (3)
To check if your crib is included in this recall, find the label on the mattress support board for the model number or SKU (stock keeping unit) of “304-903.” (3)
These products were sold from September 2021 through October 2022 online via crateandbarrel.com. (3)
Immediately stop using these recalled cribs. Contact Crate and Barrel to get a free replacement or a full refund: (3)
- Call: 800-967-6696 from 8 AM to 7 PM CT, Mondays through Fridays, or 8 AM to 6 PM CT, Saturdays and Sundays
- Text: 312-779-1979
- Recall site: crateandbarrel.com/customer-service/product-recalls
- Main shop: crateandbarrel.com (click on “Recalls” found at the bottom of the page)
Crate and Barrel announced that they would contact all purchasers directly. (3)
Crib Recalls 2020
Serena & Lily Nash Convertible Cribs (October 2020)
(source: cpsc.gov)
On October 29, 2020, about 260 units of Serena & Lily Nash Convertible Cribs were recalled over possible injury risks. According to the CPSC advisory, the crib’s leg can partially detach from the footboard and headboard, posing a fall hazard. (4)
Serena & Lily received five consumer reports of the crib’s leg partially detaching from the headboard or footboard. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported. (4)
The affected convertible cribs have a white finish with oak trim and were sold under “SKU CRIB10-NC1.” They were made in Vietnam. (4)
Designed to convert into a toddler bed, the cribs come with a kit for both crib and toddler bed rails. (4)
To check if your product is affected, find the label under or on the side of the crib for the following codes and manufacturing dates: (4)
- PO: 10320091, Date: 06-2018
- PO: 10327234, Date: 08-2018
- PO: 10361800, Date: 07-2019
- PO: 10365097, Date: 08-2019
The SKU and PO codes are also printed on your order and confirmation. (4)
These recalled products were sold from September 2018 through April 2020 via Serena & Lily outlines online, through catalogs, or physical stores. (4)
Immediately stop using these recalled cribs. Contact Serena & Lily to get any of these options: (4)
- Free repair kit (replacement headboard and footboard); includes a $250 coupon, valid one year from the date of issue
- Crib replacement (exchange for another crib of equivalent value)
- Full refund
You can reach the brand through these channels: (4)
- Toll-free phone number: 866-597-2742 from 7 AM to 5:30 PM PT, Mondays through Fridays, or from 8 AM to 1 PM PT on Saturdays
According to Serena & Lily, they would contact all known purchasers of the recalled cribs directly. (4)
DaVinci Bailey Bassinets (July 2020); first recalled in December 2019
(source: cpsc.gov)
Due to fall and entrapment hazards, DaVinci Bailey Bassinets were recalled on July 9, 2020. These products were also recalled on December 5, 2019, for the same reason. (5)(6)
Both recalls appear to be of the same product, with the same model numbers. About 3,000 units of these recalled cribs were sold in the US, and about 290 were distributed in Canada. (5)(6)
According to both recall advisories, the bassinet’s support legs can break without warning, posing a fall risk to babies. (5)(6)
These assembled wooden bassinets were made in Taiwan. The brand name “DaVinci” is on the product label, instruction manual, registration card, and packaging. (5)(6)
They came with a 1-inch waterproof cradle pad. (5)(6)
The recalled DaVinci wooden bassinets were sold in four colors, with the following product number codes: (5)(6)
- Espresso – M0934Q
- Gray – M0934G
- Natural – M0934N
- White – M0934W
Find the white label on the external product package or attached to the mattress support board to check if your product is included in this crib recall. Aside from the product number codes listed above, the affected cribs’ model number, “0934,” is printed on the label. (5)(6)
They were sold from August 2018 through September 2019 via the following outlets: (5)(6)
- Target.com
- Amazon.com
- Buybuybaby.com
- JCPenny.com
- Other online retailers
Immediately stop using these recalled wooden bassinets. Contact DaVinci to get your free repair kit (includes new support legs): (5)(6)
- Toll-free phone: 833-932-0208 from 9 AM to 5 PM PT, Mondays through Fridays
- Email: [email protected]
- Recall site: davincibaby.com/baileyrepair
- Main shop website: davincibaby.com (click on “Recalls” found under the “Help” tab)
DaVinci announced that they would contact all known purchasers directly. (5)(6)
According to the 2020 recall advisory, these wooden bassinets can be used as long as parents remove the support legs and place the product in a safe space on the floor. (5)
If that isn’t possible, it’s best to find another safe sleeping space for the baby until the replacement kit is attached so the product can meet current safety standards. (5)(6)
Crib Recalls (2019 & Beyond)
- Shermag Convertible 4-In-1 Crib (Canada; January 2019)
- Tobi Babynest Crib Bumpers (May 2018)
- Dream On Me Crib & Toddler Bed Mattresses (December 2017)
- Mathew & Lauren Collection Crib (Canada; May 2017)
- IKEA SNIGLAR cribs (Canada; October 2016); also recalled in the US in February 2011
- Bexco DaVinci Cribs – Emily, Jamie, Reagan, and Jenny Lind Cribs (October 2015 and July 2015)
- Baby’s Dream Cribs & Furniture (May 2015)
- IKEA SULTAN and VYSSA Crib Mattresses (May 2015)
- IKEA Crib Mattresses (January 2015)
- Bexco Franklin & Ben Mason 4-in-1 Convertible Cribs (August 2014)
- Oeuf Sparrow Cribs (July 2014)
- Dream On Me Lullaby Cradle Gliders (November 2013)
- Nan Far Rockland Furniture Round Cribs (July 2013)
- PT Domusindo Perdana Drop-Side Cribs (March 2013)
- Jardine Cribs Sold by Babies “R” Us (June 2012)
- Nan Far Rockland Furniture Drop-Side Cribs (April 2012)
- Dutailier Group Drop-Side Cribs (November 2011)
- Ducduc Fixed Side Cribs (April 2011)
- Generation 2 Worldwide SafetyCraft Drop-Side Cribs (February 2011)
- The Land of Nod Rosebud Drop-Side Cribs (January 2011)
- Bassettbaby Drop-Side Cribs With External Plastic Hardware (November 2010)
- Heritage Collection 3-In-1 Drop-Side Cribs (October 2010)
- Alexander Designs Ltd. Brand Drop-Side Cribs (October 2010)
- Sorelle Brand “Prescott” Fixed-Sided Cribs (September 2010)
- Pottery Barn Kids Drop-Side Cribs (July 2010)
- Child Craft Brand Drop-Side Cribs (June 2010)
- Child Craft Brand Crib ‘n’ Double Bed Full Size Stationary-Side Cribs With Dowel (June 2010)
- Evenflo Recalls Drop-Side Cribs (June 2010)
- LaJobi Bonavita, Babi Italia, & ISSI Drop-Side Cribs (June 2010)
- Simmons Easy Drop-Side Cribs (June 2010)
- Million Dollar Baby Drop-Side Cribs (June 2010)
- Delta Drop-Side Wooden Stabilizer Bar Cribs (June 2010)
- Evenflo Jenny Lind Cribs (June 2010)
- C&T, Sorelle, Golden Baby Drop-Side Cribs (May 2010)
- Simplicity Drop-Side Cribs With Tubular Support Frames (April 2010)
- Graco-Branded LaJobi Drop-Side Cribs – Ashleigh, Hampton, Kendal, Lauren, Jason, Rachel, Sarah, Shannon, & Tifton (April 2010)
- Generation 2 Worldwide ChildESIGNS Drop Side Cribs (February 2010)
- Dorel Asia Drop-Side Cribs (January 2010)
- Caramia Furniture Diana Drop Side Cribs (January 2010)
- Stork Craft Fisher-Price Cribs (November 2009)
- Simplicity Drop-Side Cribs (July 2009); first announced in September 2008
- LaJobi Bonavita “Hudson” and Babi Italia “Pinehurst” Drop Side Cribs (June 2009)
- LaJobi Bonavita “Cabana” Drop Side Cribs (June 2009)
- Suntech Enterprises SunKids Convertible Cribs (April 2009)
- Jardine Dark Pine Olympia, White Capri Lifetime; Antique Walnut Capri Single Cribs (April 2009); also recalled in January 2009 and June 2008
- Stork Craft Crib Mattresses (January 2009)
- Simplicity White Lancaster Cribs (January 2009)
- Munire Newport Rubbed Black 4-in-1 Lifetime, OldeWorld Cribs and Matching Furniture (December 2008)
- Playkids PLK-909 Convertible Crib/Playpen/Bassinet/Beds (October 2008)
- Delta Enterprise Drop-Side Crib with Crib Trigger Lock & Safety Peg Hardware (October 2008)
- Simplicity Brand Drop Side Cribs – Aspen & Crib N Changer Combo, Camille, Gabrielle, Providence, & Shenandoah (September 2008)
- Mother Hubbard’s Cupboards’ Matthew & Lauren Crib (Canada; August 2008)
- Baby Appleseed Davenport Cribs (August 2008)
- Mother Hubbard’s Cupboards Hush a Bye, Enchantment, Once Upon A Time, & Rock A Bye Cribs (August 2008)
- Bassettbaby Wendy Bellissimo Hidden Hills Collection Cribs Sold at Babies “R” Us (June 2008)
- Simmons Kids Crib Mattresses (June 2008)
- Stanley Furniture 2nd Nature Built To Grow Cribs (June 2008)
- Jardine Drop Side, Windsor, Hilton, Wicker, Berkley, Haven, Convertible, Lifetime, & Positano Cribs (June 2008)
- Majestic Curved Top and Flat Top, Essex, Brighton/Sussex, & Captiva Cribs (February 2008)
- Munire Furniture Majestic Curved/Flat Top, Brighton/Sussex, Essex, & Captiva Cribs (February 2008)
- Kids II Baby Einstein Baby Neptune Soothing Seascape Crib Toys (January 2008)
- Nettocollection “Moderne” And “Loft” Cribs (September 2007)
- Simplicity & Graco Cribs (September 2007)
- Legacy Cribs (February 2004)
- Song Lin Sleigh Round Cribs (May 2007)
- Graco Aspen 3 In 1 Cribs (December 2005)
- Lov’s Europa Natural Color Cribs (November 2005)
- Pottery Barn Kids Spindle Cribs (September 2005)
- Delta Enterprise Portable Cribs (March 2005)
- Orbelle Daniella, Leeat, Noa, Amber, Naomi, Gabriella, & Series 300 Cribs (January 2005)
- Stanley Furniture (Young America) Isabella model cribs (March 2004)
- Child Craft Legacy Cribs (February 2004)
- Babi Italia/LaJobi Tiffany & Josephine Cribs (June 2003)
- Baby’s Dream Furniture Always Crib, Crib 4 Life, & Legendary Cribs (May 2003)
- Gerry and Evenflo Portable Wood Cribs (January 2003)
- Vermont Precision Alpine Cribs (April 2002)
- L.A. Baby Folding Little Wood Cribs (December 2001)
- LaJobi Molly and Betsy Cribs (December 2001)
- Simmons Little Folks Cribs (February 2001)
- Baby’s Dream Cribs (February 1998)
Why Do Cribs Get Recalled?
Defects, Problems, & Other Safety Issues: Why Do Cribs Get Recalled?
There can be different reasons why cribs are recalled, but these are mostly related to safety issues that might lead to falls, entrapment, or other injury risks.
Depending on the situation, the CPSC or crib manufacturers might issue the recall after the following:
- The product failed in safety tests
- The product doesn’t meet newly released safety protocols
- Reports of incidents involving the product
- Other important reasons
Drop-Side Crib Recalls & Other Hardware Or Design Issues
Drop-side cribs were popular when they came out in the 1940s because it was easier for parents to pick up or put down their babies. However, according to the CPSC’s statement in May 2010, at least 32 infant deaths from suffocation and strangulation were linked to these products. (7)
The child can get trapped between the crib’s drop-side rail and the main frame. These incidents can lead to injuries, disabilities, or even death if the children aren’t found and saved immediately. (7)
(source: cpsc.gov)
Falling Mattresses From Unstable Support
The crib’s structural integrity is very important to ensure that the mattress stays intact. A falling mattress can also cause the child to fall or become entrapped, posing injury risks or death.
Unstable or weak legs can also pose safety hazards.
What Was The Recall On Cribs In 2011?
Several crib recalls were issued after the ban against drop-side cribs was announced in June 2011. (1)(2)
Can You Fix Recalled Cribs?
It depends on the issue. Be sure to follow the advice of the CPSC or the manufacturer regarding the specific product recall.
For example, if they advise returning or destroying the recalled crib (for replacement or refund), then be sure to do it.
If the manufacturer offers a free repair kit, you can fix the recalled cribs yourself.
Our Crib Recommendations
Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib (GREENGUARD GOLD-certified nursery furniture with low chemical emissions)
DaVinci Baby Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib (GREENGUARD GOLD-certified)
Newton Baby Soho Convertible Crib
Safety In Buying Cribs
How Do You Know If A Crib Is Safe?
- If possible, choose a trusted brand known for making high-quality cribs.
- Check the product’s description and design; check for quality and safety certification if you can.
- Always check for recalls.
- Regularly your baby’s crib for safety hazards, including loose hardware, weakened legs or slats, etc.
- Be sure also to check crib accessories for recalls and safety hazards.
How Do I Find Out If My Crib Has Been Recalled?
Always check the brand’s main shop or website, the CPSC’s website (cpsc.gov), or Motherhood Community for product recall advisories.
Sign up for our regular recall alerts and never miss an important recall again:
How Many Years Is A Crib Good For?
Although cribs aren’t sold with an expiration date, the CPSC recommends avoiding products over 10 years old. (8)
And while some parents might argue that we’ve all survived the heirloom cribs from our generation, they might not meet the current safety standards.
For example, drop-side cribs were considered safe before they were banned in 2011. Also, much older cribs might have other hazards, such as lead in paint banned in 1978. (8)
Is A Crib From 1991 Safe?
No. The CPSC doesn’t recommend hand-me-down cribs for safety reasons.
Is It Safe To Use A Crib From 1990?
No. Again, these cribs might be unsafe and could fail current safety protocols.
Other Recent Baby Product Recalls & Safety Warnings
Stay informed with the latest news by signing up for our regular Motherhood Community recall alerts so you never miss an important recall.
Check these comprehensive lists of product recalls by category:
- Stroller recalls (2020 to 2023)
- Recalled toys list (2020 to 2023)
- Baby formula recall (2001 to 2022)
- Baby food recall (2015 to 2022)
- Pacifier recall (2019 to 2022)
- Baby wipes recall (2014 to 2022)
Other individual product recalls:
- Walker Edison bunk bed recall (2023)
- Sakar’s Tony Hawk helmet recall (2023)
- Kindred Bravely bamboo nursing hoodie recall (2023)
- Cybex recall (2023)
- Patagonia recall (2023)
- Safety 1st recall (2023)
- Maxi Cosi recall (2023)
- Lancaster high chair recall (2023)
- Fabuloso cleaning products recall (2023)
- PJ Salvage pajamas (2023)
- Target blanket recall (2022)
- Crate & Barrel crib recall (2022)
- Laundress recall (2022)
- Bentex children’s clothing recall (2022)
- Otteroo infant flotation ring safety warning (2022)
- Green Sprouts sippy cup recall (2022)
- Parent’s Choice wipes removal from shelves (2022)
- Toddleroo cabinet latch recall (2022)
- 4moms Rockaroo recall (2022)
- NUK glass bottle recall (2022)
- BIBS bottle recall (2022)
- Winter Water Factory baby clothes recall (2022)
- Babyganics bubble bath product recall (2022)
- Frigg pacifier recall (2022)
- Maxi Cosi Pria 85 recall (2021)
References
(1) https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110218111815.htm
(2) https://www.cpsc.gov/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Full-Size–Baby-Cribs
(3) https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Crate-And-Barrel-Recalls-Thornhill-Baby-Cribs-Due-to-Fall-and-Entrapment-Hazards-Recall-Alert
(4) https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2021/Serena-and-Lily-Recalls-Nash-Convertible-Cribs-Due-to-Injury-Hazard-Recall-Alert
(5) https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2020/DaVinci-Recalls-Bassinets-Due-to-Fall-and-Entrapment-Hazards-Recall-Alert
(6) https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2020/DaVinci-Recalls-Bassinets-Due-to-Fall-Hazard-Recall-Alert
(7) https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2010/CPSC-Issues-Warning-on-Drop-Side-Cribs32-Fatalities-in-Drop-Side-Cribs-in-Last-9-Years
(8) https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/products-cribs.html
(9) https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Pottery-Barn-Kids-Recalls-Penny-Convertible-Cribs-Due-to-Laceration-Hazard-Recall-Alert
(10) https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Restwell-Mattress-Recalls-Room-Board-Crib-Mattresses-Due-to-Suffocation-Hazard-for-Infants-Failure-to-Comply-with-Federal-Safety-Standard-for-Crib-Mattresses-Sold-Exclusively-at-Room-Board-Recall-Alert
