Another 170,000 drop-side cribs recalled for faulty hardware

Another company recalled its drop-side cribs today because faulty hardware allows the drop side to disengage from the crib. This time there have been 104 incidents of drop side and slat detachments including 11 reports of children falling from or becoming entrapped in the cribs, six who were bruised and injured. The 170,000 cribs were made by C&T International/Sorelle and were also distributed under the name Golden Baby.

This is just the latest in a long series of drop-side crib recalls, which is why we have started advising parents to stop using the drop sides of cribs they own and to opt for a fixed-side crib if they are buying a new one. And, of course, check and tighten any crib's hardware frequently.

The Sorelle/ Golden Baby cribs have been sold for the past 10 years at children's product stores and other retailers for between $300 and $600. The recall includes 24 models—see the recall notice for details and photographs.

Sorelle's parent company, C&T, is offering parents a repair kit that will immobilize the drop-side. It can be obtained by calling (877) 791-9398, e-mailing CANDTRECALL@AOL.COM or by visiting C&T's Web site. The company notes that some older crib models may not be suitable for retrofitting. Owners of those cribs are being offered a voucher.