
One of the few things that most parents are willing to put some good money into is a safe and sturdy crib for their newborn. Couples spend hours fretting over which crib seems safest causing some to spend thousands of dollars while others find bargain deals at less than $100. Unfortunately, those who suspected they got a good deal on a Delta crib may have to check their model and year.

My son and daughter slept in the same white wicker bassinet that I did as an infant. The linens have been replaced, but over time, its durable craftsmanship has lulled 28 of our family's infants to sleep. But when it comes to putting a newborn to bed, there are more than a few options out there.

A friend of mine graciously offered to give me the crib that she used for all four of her children. Mostly due to safety issues, I declined her generous proposal and bought a new one. Consider these points before you pick up a secondhand crib:
- Many older cribs have not been built to current safety standards; the width between the slats may be too wide, posing a choking hazard.
- If you didn't assemble it, you can't be sure it was put together properly.
- Check for splinters, peeling paint, and worn out bed railings or broken slats.
- Be wary of dislodged mattress supports.
To see the rest of the list, read more.

Designing the perfect nursery for your firstborn is a labor of love. While your bump grows larger, your imagination does too. The second time around, moms don't have the time to nitpick on minute details, but they do what they can to make the room pretty and practical.