Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you will want to make sure that it meets the standards of safety that are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that's suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary minimalist crib made from sustainable wood A convertible crib that grows with the baby, becoming a toddler daybed and bed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important features of a crib that is worth buying is its safety. If you are purchasing a new crib or replacing one that is old, ensure the mattress and bedding are in compliance with government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads and positioners, as well as other products that can raise 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.
If you want to ensure the safety of your child select a crib that bears the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals indicate that the crib was tested by a third-party and meets the highest standards of safety. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced between 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Check that the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inch in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on the posts.
In addition, if you're considering buying a used crib make sure 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 because babies who are teething can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
If you do opt to buy a convertible crib, ensure 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 professional installation.
A good crib must be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from shifting or collapsing over time. It should also have a strong enough drawer bottom to support clothes and toys. Additionally, the drawer should close and lock securely to prevent your child from taking out the contents. It should also be able to take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so choosing one that is in line with your decor style can be a rewarding task. There are many different cribs to choose from, from sleek modern options to classic designs. The slats are often of different heights, and some come with toddler conversion kits in case your baby is ready to grow. Other features to consider include the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are usually made from wood, but not all cribs are created equal. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter. Others are made of softwood which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both options have advantages, but if your goal is to buy a crib that can last for many children hardwood is the ideal option.
A good crib is designed to be safe and comfortable. It should not have sharp corners or other dangers that could entrap a child's fingers or leg. It should also have a wide enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It is also crucial to make sure the crib is securely fixed within its space and not close to windows or other possible dangers.
When you are shopping for a new crib it is crucial to be aware of safety standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are geared towards preventing SIDS and cover a variety of factors including the dimensions of the crib and the type of mattress you use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them are in line with or exceed the requirements. For example the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made from sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic paints. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction as well as spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than many cribs we reviewed however it's a great option for those looking for an elegant modern crib that can last several siblings. It's also a little larger than the other cribs we reviewed, and it will make more space in your bedroom than the smaller cribs we looked at. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs, which means it's not suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built using materials that are strong and safe, meaning they won't split or break over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. If you opt for foam or innerspring, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must be firm too, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. Find a mattress that is CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is produced without ozone depleters, PBDEs, and TCEP flame retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a tough long-lasting, chemical-free and long-lasting material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent example of a wood crib that is built to last. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into a toddler bed or a day bed, and then to it can be converted to a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design can fit in with any decor for your nursery, and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your child's environment is safe and healthy.
Old cribs should be replaced if they show signs of wear or aren't properly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts that could keep the baby's head from being trapped, arms and legs, chipped paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters and dangerous construction details such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, decorative objects like wedges, bumpers and other ornamental pieces are not recommended, as 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 from Ohio create their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails, and they use kiln-dried wood. The products are sold in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. They are also available online. They have a variety of different paint and stain options, along with an array of hardware.
Cost
It is crucial to consider your budget when purchasing a crib. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and save you money in the long term. Apart from being durable A good crib will be simple to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is essential to purchase a crib that adheres with 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 sooner than you would otherwise.
The style and price are just two of the many aspects that go into choosing the ideal crib for your child. Some of these factors, like the use of slats or flat panels, are purely personal preferences, while other such as the size of the crib and mattress' height are more practical. There are also different types of cribs, from compact cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
The best cribs are made to be more flexible than other cribs. This allows parents to utilize cribs for a longer period of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into a bassinet or midi-crib. It can also be transformed into an midi toddler's crib or a daybed that is full-sized. Its narrow width and wheels make it easy to move around, 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 also good alternatives. Both cribs have sleek, minimalistic designs that will complement any decor in the nursery. These cribs are made from sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for children's hands and mouths. This reduces the chance of SIDS. The cribs also come with four adjustable mattress support levels, so you can move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Modern cribs are easy to put together, and take about an hour or less from beginning to completion. The cribs come with a manual for assembly, as well as the tools required. There is no need to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs we tested were in compliance with CPSC safety standards. However, Baby Cot Bed had more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions prior to beginning assembly.