Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you will want to make sure that it meets the strict safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits in your space and your budget.
Our top picks are a modern minimalist crib made of sustainable wood, a convertible crib which grows with the baby into the toddler bed and daybed as well as a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of attractive colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important aspects of a good crib. If you are buying a new crib or replacing one that's older make sure the mattress and bedding are in compliance with government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads, positioners, and other products that elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in 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 show that the crib was inspected by a third-party and meets the highest standards of safety. Mattresses that are soft can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced between 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on the posts.
If you're thinking about purchasing a used crib, make sure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also essential to buy a new crib that uses lead-free paint. This is due to the fact that babies who are teething can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Lastly, if you opt to buy a convertible crib, check that the conversion kits comply with CPSC standards. These kits allow 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 a professional installation.
A good crib should also be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from shifting or collapsing in the course of time. It must also have a drawer bottom that is sturdy enough to support toys and clothing. The drawer should also be able to close and lock in a secure way so that your baby cannot pull out the contents. It should also be able to support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
The crib is the center of any nursery, so finding one that fits your decor style can be a rewarding task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, including modern, sleek models to classic-looking designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to move on. The crib's size and mattress height are also important features to take into consideration.
Cribs are usually made of wood, but not all cribs are made of wood. Some cribs are made of hardwood that has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees which shed their leaves in the winter. Others are made of softwood which is lighter, and comes from evergreens. Both have their advantages However, if you're searching for a crib that will last for many years it is recommended to choose a hardwood option.
A crib that is well-designed to ensure safety and comfort. It should not have sharp corners or other potential dangers that could entrap a little one's fingers or legs. It should also have a wide enough opening for easy sheet changes. It's also important to ensure that the crib is properly anchored to its place, and not placed near any windows or other possible dangers.
If you're shopping for a crib, it's important to be aware of the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to prevent SIDS and cover a variety of aspects such as the size of your crib and the mattress you choose to 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 is, for instance, 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 spindle support, quality of construction, chemical and heavy metal content and ASTM specifications.
It's more expensive than other cribs that we looked at However, if you're searching for a chic modern crib for your baby that will last for many generations This crib is an excellent choice. It's also more sturdy than other cribs we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your bedroom as compared to the smaller cribs we've looked at. It's more exposed to hardware than other cribs therefore it might 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 break or splinter over time. It must be easy to clean so that your baby can sleep comfortably. If you opt for foam or innerspring, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. Continuing must also be firm since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for a mattress made of foam, look for one that has CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is made free of PBDEs, ozone depleters and TCEP flame retardants. It must also be free of metal coils or other dangerous chemicals. Natural latex is another option. It is a tough, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a wood crib built to last. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-sized bed to meet the needs of your child as they develop. Its classic design can fit into any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is safe and healthy.
Old cribs should be replaced if they show signs of wear or are not correctly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts which could trap the baby's head or legs and arms, chipped paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, decorative objects such as wedges, bumpers and other pieces of decor should be avoided, because they can pose health risks to infants.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen in Ohio create their furniture using sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are more durable than glues or nails, and they use heated wood. Their products are available in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They have a wide range of paint and stain options and hardware options.
Cost
It is essential to consider your budget when purchasing a crib. But, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and help you save money in the long term. In addition to being durable, a good crib will be simple to assemble and look great in the nursery. It is also essential to choose cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will permit you to get recall notices earlier than otherwise.
There are many factors that influence the crib that is best for your child, including style and cost. Some of these are personal preference, like whether to choose slats or flat panels, while others are more practical and essential, such as crib size and the mattress's height. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and can be tucked away in tiny spaces while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are designed to be more adaptable than others. This allows parents to utilize them for a longer period of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be transformed into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be transformed into a midi toddler's bed, or a daybed that is full-sized. Its narrow width and wheels allow it to move around, while its unique circular shape creates the illusion of a womb for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are good alternatives. Both cribs feature sleek, minimalistic designs that are perfect for any decor in the nursery. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. The cribs also come with four adjustable mattress support levels which allows you to move the mattress higher as your baby grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled within an hour or less. They also come with a thorough instruction manual as well as the necessary tools, so you don't have to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we tested were compliant with the CPSC's safety guidelines however some had more components than others, so make sure to read the directions carefully before beginning the assembly.