A used crib can be easily obtained at any garage sale, in a thrift shop or even from a neighbor. It is a great way to save some money on your baby's nursery. Cribs tend to hold good over time and you might end up buying an elegant and new looking piece just at a fraction of price. Used cribs or even new ones if not handled properly and misused might be a safety hazard for the baby. So check for the crib properly before you decide on it as saving money should not be done at the cost of safety.
Don't buy a dismantled crib
3 In 1 Crib
Look for a crib that is fully set up, so that you can check on it carefully. Do not buy any dismantled crib, as it is hard to figure out where all the pieces go without the instructions. With the pile of pieces you cannot even decide whether all the pieces are actually available or not. With the crib which is set up, you can shake it to check the durability, check the caster wheels and can also drop the sides and give a complete visual inspection. It's seldom that the used crib comes with a return policy so be very careful on finally deciding on the crib before you actually buy it.
Check Crib Safety Basics
All the cribs are made keeping in mind the U.S federal standards. But in this case those standards are voluntary and at times mistakes do happen. The space between the slats should not be more than 2-3/8" and the height of the corner posts should not be higher than 1/16". If there are any decorative cut outs in the headboard or the foot board then they might pose a safety hazard for the baby. Check all the standards before finalizing on it.
Check for recalls
Always try to have the information on crib's manufacturer and model number well ahead of time and check for the recalls. There could be any situation where the crib might be recalled, anything from the hardware that could break to a leak paint issue. Check the inside bottom of the headboard or foot board for the model number or you can even find it on a mattress support rail at times. Call the manufacturer and find out the ways to check whether the crib can be replaced or repaired and what are the other policies for the recalled cribs. Any recalled crib may not have to be a deal breaker, the problem can be sorted in other easy ways too.
Check for the missing or broken crib parts
Check if there is any creaky noise when you try to move the drop sides up and down. Check if they work properly or if there is any other problem with them. See whether you can operate the drop-sides easily, also make sure that the mattress supports are all in place and they aren't sagging and broken. Check whether you can move the mattress to different heights and the caster wheels are all in place. Try to move the crib back and forth to make sure that all the moving parts work properly and all the hardware is in place.
Buying used convertible cribs
Convertible cribs are the cribs which can be made into a toddler bed or even an adult size bed to accommodate your child when he or she grows. If you are looking for a used convertible crib, then check whether the convertible kit is available or not, whether it is included in the price. If they are not included then contact the manufacturer to find out whether the kit is still available and about the pricing. Decide whether the convertible style is what you are really looking out for.
Used Crib Mattresses
Some used cribs also include the mattress in it. Check if the mattress fits the crib properly. It should be firm and the cover should be without any tears. The mattress must sit on the level inside and must not move around, there shouldn't be any gaps around the edges. Most of the crib mattresses comes with a waterproof cover and few others with a completely sealed covers, so that you can wipe down or spray the crib mattress with a mild disinfectant. But if you more concerned about the cleanliness and have doubts about the mattress, then it is worth to buy a new one.