Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're in the market for a crib, you'll need one that is safe and meets the highest standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits in your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib constructed from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that can be transformed with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important features of a crib that is worth buying is its security. When you are buying your first crib or replacing one that is old, make sure the mattress and other bedding items meet the standards set by the government. Also, avoid bumper pads, sleep positioners and other items that lift your child up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items have been linked to SIDS and suffocation injuries among infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your child pick a crib that has the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals prove that the crib was inspected by a third party and has met the highest standards of safety. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure the corner posts don't exceed 1/16 inches in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on the posts.
Additionally, if you are contemplating purchasing a used crib, ensure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib that has paint that is free of lead. This is due to the fact that infants who are teething can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Also, if you purchase a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits permit you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. However, they aren't always simple to put together and may require professional installation.
A good crib must have slats and sides that are strong enough to stop the crib from slipping or collapsing with time. It should also have a drawer bottom that is strong enough to hold clothes and toys. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to stop your baby from pulling out the contents. It should also be able to support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, therefore finding one that matches your decorating style can be a jolly task. There are a myriad of cribs to choose from, including modern, sleek models to classic-looking designs. The slats are usually different in height, and some come with toddler conversion kits in case your baby is ready to grow. The crib's size and mattress height are other important aspects to take into consideration.
Cribs are typically made of wood, but not all are made equally. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and is derived from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have advantages but if your goal is to buy a crib that will last for a number of children, hardwood is the best choice.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed to ensure safety and comfort. It should have no sharp corners or other potential hazards that could catch a little one's fingers or legs. It must also have a large enough opening that allows for easy sheet changes. It is also crucial that the crib be properly secured to its place and not placed near windows or other potential dangers.
When you are in the market for a new crib, it is important to be aware of the safety standards recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a range of aspects, including the size of the crib and the type mattress you use.
The majority of cribs we examined have met or exceeded these standards However, some cribs are more stringent than others. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is certified by GREENGUARD Gold and is made of sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for build quality, spindle support as well as heavy and chemical content as well as ASTM requirements.
It's more expensive than some of the other cribs we examined but it's an excellent choice if you want an elegant modern crib that will last several siblings. It's also a little more substantial than some of the cribs we looked at, and it will take up more square footage in your room than some of the smaller cribs we looked at. It's more exposed to hardware compared to other cribs so it may not be suitable for a minimalist nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made from materials that are durable and safe, which means they won't splinter or damage 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 as soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Find a mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It should also not contain metal coils or other dangerous chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a tough and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent example of a crib made of wood that is made to last. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted into a toddler bed, daybed and a full-sized bed, to accommodate your child's needs as they develop. Its classic design can fit in with any decor for your nursery, and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
If they show signs that they are worn out or not being properly assembled or maintained it is time to replace them. They include cutouts with decorative designs that could trap the baby's head, arms or legs or legs; chipped paint that may expose them to harmful substances; splinters and other construction details that could be dangerous like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative such as bumpers, wedges and other decorative pieces are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to infants.
Romina is a family-owned company that manufactures beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Their furniture is handmade in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that's sustainably harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. The products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. recommended cribs are also available on the internet. They offer a number of different paint and stain options, in addition to an array of hardware.
Cost
Cribs are costly It is therefore important to think about your budget prior to buying one. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and save you money in the long run. In addition to being durable, a good crib will be simple to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is also important to purchase a crib that adheres to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will permit you to receive recall notices earlier than if you did not register your crib.
Many factors go into deciding the best crib for your child, such as style and cost. Certain aspects such as the use of slats over flat panels, are purely personal preference, while other such as the crib size and the mattress's height, are more practical. There are also different types of cribs, from small options that fit into smaller spaces to larger ones that can convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs available are designed to be more flexible than others which allows parents to get plenty of use from them and grow 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 ideal for growing families. Its narrow width and wheels make it easy to move around in, while its unique circular shape creates an womb-like space for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are great alternatives. Both cribs are modern, minimalist designs that compliment any decor in the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' hands and mouths, reducing the chance of SIDS. These cribs come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, which means you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled in a matter of hours or less. They also come with an extensive instruction manual and the essential tools, so you don't have to buy the cribs separately. The cribs we examined conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC However, some cribs had more components than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before beginning assembly.