I am not sure if this post really belongs here or not, but I wanted to share my opinion on the topic of baby cribs.  I was reading through some of the articles written on living frugally with baby, and a crib was listed as a must-have item. I am here to say that it really isn't, especially if you live in a small home/apartment or don't have the money to buy a good one. Buying a cheap used one is usually dangerous, and using a used mattress just seems gross to me. My suggestion is that babies don't need cribs.  At first, if Mom is breastfeeding, the baby is usually in the bed with her and Dad. After that, a mattress placed on the floor in a safe room from which baby can not escape is fine too (and recommended by some Montessori-types). Or, as an alternative, a playpen works great if it would be unsafe for baby to escape (I did this with my 2nd baby). These options are much cheaper than cribs, take up less room, and depending on your views, may match your parenting style better. I know it seems a little weird at first, but babies can be perfectly happy without a crib. 

My first baby had a crib, 20 years ago. It was one from my little sisters. The second had a portacrib, then a toddler bed at almost 2, when his sister was born.  She had the portacrib, as have the next 4- they use it until they can get out of our bed- a low bed, at about 10-12 months.  Then when they are about 18 months they have a nest on our floor for about a year, until they go to the toddler bed.  I do think it is good to have a bassinet, portacrib, someplace to nap, so you don't have to be checking so constantly and can get the laundry, cooking, reading, or fun things done during naptime!  That has been essential for me, to have a spot they can nap during the day safely.  Not a full size crib, but we do love our Eddie Bauer portacrib, it has worked well the last six kids.  I'm hoping we can use it later for a grandbaby!   Just took it down at Christmastime, it was in the living room for about 6 months.  It's still folded up in our room, I guess I'm not ready to attic it yet.  Maybe I'll just put it in our bedroom closet.