Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll need one that meets the highest safety standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that's suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks include modern, minimal crib made with sustainable wood; a convertible crib that grows with baby into a toddler daybed and bed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important characteristics of a crib that is safe. If you are purchasing a brand new crib or replacing one that is old, ensure the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads or sleep positioners, as well as other objects that can lift your infant or create a slanted sleeping surface. These objects have been associated with SIDS and suffocation injuries among infants.
To ensure your baby's safety, look for cribs that have the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals signify that the crib has been evaluated by a third party and meets the highest safety requirements. In addition the mattress should be firm, as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be not more than two and three-quarter inches apart to prevent the infant's head getting trapped between them. Also, make sure that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inches high to stop a baby's clothing from getting caught on them.
If you are considering buying a used crib, make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also buy cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
If you are considering buying a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits allow you to transform the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may need professional installation.
In addition to these features, a quality crib should have sturdy sides and slats, which are strong enough to keep the crib from crashing or shifting with time. It must also have a bottom for the drawer that is thick enough to hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able to close and lock in a secure way so that your child cannot pull out the contents. In addition it should be able to withstand the weight of a large quilt or blanket without sliding.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, therefore finding one that matches your decorating style can be a fun task. There are many different cribs to choose from, ranging with modern and sleek options to classic-looking designs. Some cribs feature slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to move to the next level. Other aspects to consider include mattress height, and crib size.
Cribs are typically constructed from wood, however not all cribs are the same. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and is sourced from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the winter. Other cribs are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their advantages However, if you're searching for a crib that will last through several children it is best to select a hardwood crib.
A good crib is built to provide safety and comfort. It should not have sharp corners or other hazards that could cause injury to the child's fingers or legs. It should also have a wide enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It's also important to make sure the crib is securely fixed in its room and not close to any windows or other possible dangers.
If you're shopping for a crib, you need to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a variety of aspects that include the size of the crib and the type mattress you use.
Most of the cribs we reviewed have met or exceeded these standards however some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainable-sourced hardwood and non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality as well as spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs we looked at, but if you're looking for a chic modern crib for your baby that will last for many generations This crib is a great option. It's also larger than the cribs we looked at and will take up more square footage in your bedroom than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it might not be the best fit for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from sturdy and safe materials that won't cause damage or break over time. It should be easy to clean, so that your child can sleep comfortably. No matter if you choose innerspring or foam it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Choose a mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is manufactured free of PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It should not contain any metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is known as a durable and long-lasting material that is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent model of a wooden crib that is built to last. It features four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, day bed, and full-sized bed to meet the needs of your child as they grow. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
If they show signs that they are worn out or aren't being properly maintained or assembled, it is time to replace them. They include cutouts with decorative designs that can trap a baby's head, arms or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances; splinters and unsafe construction details such as poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative items such as wedges, bumpers and other pieces of decor are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to babies.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen from Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are more durable than glues and nails, and they utilize heated wood. Their products are available in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy the items online. They offer a number of paint and stain options, as well as an array of hardware.
Cost
It is essential to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. However, the best crib can add value to your nursery and help you save money in the long run. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is important to buy an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC and this will enable you to receive recall notices earlier than you would otherwise.
Cost and style are only two of the many aspects that go into choosing the ideal crib for your child. Certain aspects, like the use of slats or flat panels, are just personal preference, while other like the size of the crib or mattress' height are more practical. There are a variety of cribs. Some are compact and fit into small spaces and others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs on the market are designed to be more flexible than others, allowing parents to get plenty of use from the crib and develop with their children. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a mini crib, a midi toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it perfect for families that are growing. Its narrow width and wheels make it simple to move around in, while its unique circular shape helps create a womb-like environment for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are excellent alternatives. Both cribs have modern, minimalist designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. The cribs are constructed of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for children's mouths and hands. This reduces the chance of SIDS. These cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted that allow you to raise the mattress higher as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs are simple to put together, taking around an hour or less from start to finish. The cribs come with an instruction manual, as well as the tools required. There is sale cot to purchase cribs separately. All cribs we examined conformed to the CPSC safety standards. However certain cribs had more components than others. Make sure you carefully go through the instructions prior to attempting assembly.