dropside

A dropside is a movable side panel on a crib or cot that can be lowered or raised to provide access to the infant or to adjust the bed’s height. It typically consists of a rail attached to a track or hinge mechanism, with a latch or locking device to secure it in place when raised. Dropsides may exist on one or more sides of the crib and are designed to allow easier placement and removal of a baby without bending over the rail.

Historically, dropside cribs were common in many markets because of the convenience they offered caregivers. Over time, concerns about safety arose when the mechanical components could loosen, break, or fail, creating gaps where a baby could become entrapped or suffocate. In response, regulatory authorities in several countries tightened requirements or prohibited dropsides. For example, the United States’ Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the sale of cribs with drop-side rails in 2011 due to repeated entrapment injuries and deaths. Manufacturers shifted to fixed-side or convertible designs that maintain rigid, non-movable rails.

Safety considerations emphasize that dropsides must be free from wear, properly aligned, and securely latched if such designs are permitted in a region. Because of safety history and regulation, many jurisdictions now restrict or prohibit dropside cribs, and buyers are advised to rely on cribs with fixed sides or compliant, non-modern designs. Regular inspection and adherence to current safety standards are essential for any crib in use.

In practice, dropsides are less common in new product lines in many markets and are often found only in legacy or heavily regulated contexts, with fixed-side cribs and convertible designs serving as safer alternatives.