Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you will want to make sure that it meets the high safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits into your space and your budget.
Our top picks are a modern, minimalist crib made from wood that is sustainable and a convertible crib that can be transformed with the baby into an adult daybed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is among the most important aspects of a good crib. If you are buying a brand new crib or replacing one that's older make sure that the mattress and bedding are in compliance with government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads, positioners, and other products that 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 prove that the crib was tested by a third-party, and that it meets the highest standards of safety. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent the head of a baby from getting stuck between them. Make sure the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib, be sure it hasn't been involved in any accidents or recalls. It is also recommended to purchase a crib with lead-free paint. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you decide to purchase a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to convert to a toddler or a full-size mattress. However, they're not always simple to put together and may require a professional to install.
In addition to these features, a good crib should have solid sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from crashing or shifting over time. It must also have a drawer bottom that is thick enough to support toys and clothing. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to prevent your child from taking out the contents. Furthermore, it should be able to withstand the weight of a bulky blanket or quilt without falling.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, therefore finding one that fits your decor style can be a jolly task. There are a myriad of cribs, ranging from modern and sleek designs to classic styles. Some cribs feature slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go onto the next stage. The mattress's height and the crib's size are also important features to consider.
Cribs are typically constructed from wood, however not all cribs are created equal. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is heavier and is derived from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in winter. Other cribs are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their advantages However, if you're searching for a crib that can last through several children it is recommended to choose a hardwood crib.
A good crib is built for comfort and safety. It shouldn't contain sharp corners or other dangers that could trap the child's fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It is also important that the crib be properly secured to its place and not placed close to windows or other potential dangers.
If you're shopping for cribs, it's crucial to know 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 range of aspects that include the size of your crib and the type of mattress you choose.
Some cribs are more stringent than others, but the majority of them meet or exceed the standards. For instance, 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 requirements, CFR and ASTM for spindle support, quality of construction chemical and heavy metal content as well as ASTM requirements.
It's more expensive than some of the other cribs we reviewed, but it's a great option for those looking for a stylish modern crib that will last through multiple siblings. cots to tots 's also larger than other cribs that we have looked at. It also takes up more space in your room in comparison to the smaller ones we have considered. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs therefore it might not be suitable for a minimalist nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that won't cause damage or break over time. It must also be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. No matter if you choose foam or innersprings mattresses, the mattress must meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for a foam mattress, look for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means that the foam is produced without PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It should not contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is an extremely durable and long-lasting material that is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great model of a wooden crib that is built to last. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into a toddler bed or a day bed and then an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend in with any nursery decor and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced when they show signs of wear or aren't properly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts that can keep the baby's head from being trapped, arms and legs, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and unsafe construction details such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Additionally, bumpers, wedges, and other decorative items should be avoided because they could pose a risk to the health of a baby.
Romina is a family-owned business that manufactures beautiful, safe, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainably harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are more durable than glues and nails, and they use the kiln-dried wood. Their products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They offer a variety of paint and stain options, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are costly and it is crucial to consider your budget before buying one. But, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and help you save money over the long haul. A quality crib is sturdy and easy to set up, and looks great in the nursery. It is also important to purchase cribs that conform to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will enable you to get recall notices much sooner than you would otherwise.
Many factors go into deciding the crib that is best for your child, such as the style and cost. Certain aspects, like the use of slats over flat panels, are solely personal preferences, while other such as the crib size and the mattress's height are more practical. There are a variety of cribs, from small options that fit into smaller spaces to larger ones that be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are designed to be more versatile than other cribs. This lets parents use them for a longer amount 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 converted into an midi toddler's crib or a daybed that is full-sized. Its small width and wheels make it easy to move around in, 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 excellent options. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for small mouths and hands, which reduces the risk of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of adjustable mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled in a matter of hours or less. The cribs come with an instruction manual, as well as the tools required. It is not necessary to purchase cribs separately. All cribs we tested conformed to the CPSC safety standards. However, some cribs had more components than others. Be sure to carefully read the instructions before attempting the assembly.