So, is buying a used baby crib online a good idea? These days you can find just about anything for sale on Internet bargain sites like Ebay and Craigslist. While there are many good deals to be found there's a few things to keep in mind when browsing these websites for big ticket items like baby cribs.

First of all, it's important to know exactly what you're buying. Is the brand name and model number of the crib listed? Any type of crib can be listed for sale online, including cribs that don't meet current safety standards or have been involved in a safety recall. If the seller is being honest and reputable they will list the specific name of the crib for sale. Be careful with listings that describe the crib as an "exclusive" item because this could be a red flag that the crib has been imported from somewhere outside the United States. If something strikes your fancy it's a good idea to email the seller for more specific information. If they don't respond or provide vague information it's probably a good idea to look elsewhere. At the very least, you should find out if the crib is JPMA certified.

The JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) consists of over 400 companies that make products for babies and toddlers in the United States and Canada. They developed an independent testing program to help maintain a safe level of products available in the marketplace.

In addition to finding out exactly what you're buying online you also want to make sure to include any shipping charges in the final purchase price. You might find what looks like to be a great deal on a crib only to discover the shipping and handling charges cost more than the crib itself! Also make sure that the crib will be delivered to your door. If you live in an apartment or condominium shipping charges may only get your new crib delivered to your building, not up the three flights of stairs to your door.

Another thing to take into consideration is that cribs can be damaged very easily during shipping. If not packaged or handled properly you might find your new crib arrives with a few cracks or scratches. However, make online retailers have mastered the art of shipping delicate products safely so this might be as big of a concern as it used to be. Just make sure to check the return policy before you buy. If shopping on Ebay be sure to check the seller's feedback to see if anyone has complained about received damaged merchandise in the past.

Even if you know you're purchasing a used crib you definitely want to make sure that any crib you place a bid on isn't a recalled or damaged item. Some cribs on Ebay may be discontinued, damaged, or recalled. Some sellers will let you know if a crib is damaged but unfortunately there's no way of knowing the exact history of a certain crib unless you're willing to do a lot of legwork.

Most experts recommend only bidding on a crib on Ebay that meets the following criteria:

• is JPMA certified
• has a recognizable brand name
• has no damage, includes reasonable shipping costs
• is listed with a reputable seller

Before making your final decision, it's a good idea to compare prices elsewhere on the web and in local stores to make sure you're really getting the best deal possible. If the same crib is available elsewhere for around the same price it probably makes more sense to purchase new instead of used.